Live out your desert island castaway dreams at Gili Lankafushi — albeit an incredibly pampered castaway. The island is around 20 minutes from Malé but feels deliciously secluded. The only rule at Gili is “no news, now shoes” so expect a chilled, laid-back vibe.
Each villa is taken care of by Mr and Ms Friday – an (optional live-in) personal assistant, on call 24/7. They can accommodate any request, from booking spa appointments and sunset cruises to unpacking luggage.
Top suite: The Private Residence
Surrounded by a turquoise lagoon, The Private Residence at Gili Lankanfushi is reputed to be one of the largest overwater villa in the world. The rooms are connected by wooden Robinson Crusoe-esque walkways, so utmost privacy is guaranteed, even from your own party. There’s a one-bedroom master suite and a two-bedroom duplex, each with open-air bathrooms and two-person bathtubs over coral gardens. From every area, you’ll be able to soak up uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, as the next nearest villa is around 1,000ft away. There is a glass infinity pool on the upper sundeck, and kids will love the wide waterslide from the top deck into the lagoon (or big kids, we won’t judge). Previous guests include Richard Branson and Buzz Aldrin.
North Malé Atoll, Republic of Maldives +960 664 0304 gili-lankanfushi.com