Kick back and tune out the outside world for a while. Where better than on one of the 70 coral islands in the Baa Atoll, surrounded by the luxury of a pristine tropical biosphere with crystal-clear lagoons and powder-fine, white, sandy beaches?

ISLE OF HAPPINESS

Kick back and tune out the outside world for a while. Where better than on one of the 70 coral islands in the Baa Atoll, surrounded by the luxury of a pristine tropical biosphere with crystal-clear lagoons and powder-fine, white, sandy beaches? The Kihavah Maldives Villas, opened in 2011 and part of the renowned Anantara Group, are plenty luxurious too. The spacious and stylish villas and residences offer every imaginable comfort from a private pool and terrace with wonderfully comfortable daybeds, to a glorious dining pavilion. The aesthetics take their cue from nature, and the rooves resemble palm crowns. The water villas have glass-bottomed tubs for a perfect view and sense of connection to the colourful underwater world. Let your stress ebb away suspended over the ocean in a hammock with a bird’s eye view of the stunningly clear water. It’s hard to imagine a better place to relax. Dive headfirst into the prize-winning Anantara Spa, and enjoy the finest treatments and full-on pampering in the six over-water villas. Just close your eyes and float away, though don’t forget to take the occasional peek. Otherwise you’ll miss the spectacular panoramic view through the glass floors into the depths of this impressive water paradise.

INFORMATION

Arrival: around 35 minute transfer by seaplane from Malé

Closest airport: Malé

Closest city: Malé

Villas/residences: Beach Pool Villas: 22, Sunset Beach Pool Villas: 8, Overwater Pool Villas: 29, Sunset Overwater Pool Villas: 11

Activities and amenities: 49m swimming pool, volleyball, badminton, tennis, snorkelling, windsurfing, diving, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, sailing, canoeing, yoga courses, fitness studio

Restaurants: Japanese, Asian, Italian, underwater, all with a view of the water

Price: €€€€

BESONDERHEITEN

Although everything at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is worth mentioning, we focused on the culinary highlights this time. Dining by Design is for guests who want a private cook to tickle their taste buds at the location of their choosing: a dinner at the beach, or a picnic in the palm forest – anything is possible. The Sea underwater restaurant does its name proud. Incorporated into a natural reef, diners enjoy an unobstructed view of the denizens of the Indian Ocean. And the hotel has exclusive access to the reef, so guests can dive in perfect peace.

Ask for our COOL SPOTS specials!