The overwater spa at Anantara Dhigu Island in the Maldives lies beyond a wooden walkway that is partly shaded by lush, towering coconut trees.
This is barefoot luxury at its best (literally — you have to remove your shoes before entering the spa). The open-air wooden structure lets the sea breeze drift through as the friendly therapists greet you and bring a welcome ginger tea while you complete a pre-treatment consultation.
The six over-water treatment huts are spacious and airy with floor-to-ceiling windows to bring in views of the never-ending stretch of turquoise sea. There are also two open-air areas where you can have a Thai massage as you listen to the gentle sound of waves below.
The treatment menu is extensive with a selection of massages, body wraps and scrubs, facials and bath rituals, but our recommendation is the Elemis Freestyle Deep Tissue Massage. It is a deeply soothing massage; ideal if you suffer from back pain. Your therapist will expertly knead out any knots and tension, and leave you feeling like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders (I enthusiatically told my therapist it was the best massage I have ever had — and I’ve had quite a few!)
As all the tension in your body is released, you might find yourself nodding off. But you won’t want to miss the show below: Beneath the massage table, there is a section of glass-bottom floor so you can watch the tropical marine life drift by. It is just as spectacular come nightfall as the window to the ocean world below is lit up for your viewing pleasure.
Post-treatment, head to the relaxation deck and gaze off into the horizon or relax in the outdoor Jacuzzi then cool off in the cold plunge pool.
If you’re after something more intensive, there are a number of fitness classes available including boot camp, Pilates and yoga. There is a great selection of beauty facilities available, too: a nail salon (including OPI gel manicures and removal), hair salon, waxing treatments and eyelash extensions. If you’re on a family vacation (the resort is very family friendly) then there is a special treatment menu just for children. The 30-minute chocolate facial and body scrub will go down a treat.
Contact spamaldives@anantara.com, +960 664 4100, anantara.com/en/dhigu-maldives