Overwater luxury in the MaldivesKunfunadhoo Island, Maldives

When you imagine the Maldives it’s impossible not to think of an island paradise that’s home to Insta-worthy sunsets, so-blue-it-can’t-be-real water, fruity cocktails and the all-important overwater bungalow. Well, luxury resort Soneva Fushi ups the ante with eight breathtaking Water Retreats on Kunfunadhoo Island.

Lucky guests will have a choice between one- and two-bedroom villas that are the largest in the world. Equipped with retractable ceilings over the master bedroom for stargazing and infinity pools suspended above the ocean, these villas really are in a league of their own.

While the chic, tasteful interiors are a design highlight, the new Water Retreats are not whitewashed as per the rest of the resort. Instead, you can expect a more rustic castaway look. Think Gilligan's Island if Thurston Howell III had designed it.    

With a choice of either sunrise or sunset views, the villas also feature a large deck with plush loungers, a sunken seating area and catamaran nets upon which to laze. And when you’ve had enough of relaxing in the sun and want to cool off, simply slip down your very own slide into the inviting turquoise water.

You’ll also have access to the resort’s spa, sauna, gym and other facilities. Other highlights include the outdoor Cinema Paradiso, a high-tech observatory, chocolate and ice-cream rooms, wine cellar (with more than 500 bottles of top-shelf tipples), eight restaurants and three bars. All you need to do is go with the flow and abide by the Soneva Fushi philosophy: no news, no shoes, no pretensions.

amenities

• Private pool
• Complimentary breakfast
• Living and dining areas
• Wine cellar

• Water slide
• Spa area, sauna and gym
• Upstairs sun deck, library and daybeds
• TV room, snooker and foosball tables

price guide

Prices start at US$2,626 a night for the one-bedroom villa.

contact

Soneva Fushi
soneva.com