Named as ‘Hotel of the Year’ in Tatler’s ‘Travel Guide 2003’, Soneva Gili is still somewhere to get very excited about. It’s the embodiment of rustic chic and combines today’s creature comforts with all the simplicity of life at the water’s edge. Indeed, Soneva Gili is the first all water villa resort in the Maldives, the three jetties that stretch out from its main island supporting just 45 villas, a handful of which can only be accessed by boat.

Tranquillity and privacy are paramount here, the twelve-metres that separates each villa giving you the illusion that you are adrift in you own little world. And what a magical world it is, whether you opt for a Villa Suite, a Residence, a Crusoe Residence or go for the ultimate and choose the Private Reserve.

The Villa Suites are a generous 210-square-metres in size, special features including over-water decks and rooftop sun decks. The Residences are that bit larger again, whilst the aptly-titled Crusoe Residences stand alone off the island and are accessed by their own private boats. There is even a Residence and a Villa Suite with their own spa suites - you can enjoy two rejuvenating spa treatments per day, as well as access to the private in-villa sauna, gym and relaxation area. But the overwater Private Reserve remains the jewel in the crown, its two master bedrooms, guest room and spa complemented by enough amenities to ensure you have no need to emerge.

Otherwise the ocean provides everything necessary for your amusement; the PADI dive school, complimentary windsurfing, canoeing and sailing encouraging guests to take full advantage of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. Those seeking a change from all the aquatic activities can play tennis or chill-out around the main pool, with the Six Senses Spa dedicated to holistic treatments over the lagoon.

The cuisine is equally wholesome, the imaginative meals making the most of the fresh seafood and home-grown organic vegetables, and perfectly enhanced by fine wines from the gourmet underground wine cellar. Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the over-water bar, a ‘Mediter-Asian’ speciality in the waterside restaurant or a moonlit dinner on the sundeck of your villa – the settings as memorable as the cuisine.

ACCOMMODATION: 45 VILLA SUITES, RESIDENCES & CRUSOE RESIDENCES. ALSO THE PRIVATE RESERVE.
ACCESS: 15 MINUTES BY SPEEDBOAT FROM MALÉ.
CHILDREN: WELCOME.
7 NIGHTS: FROM £4,575 P.P. IN THE HIGH-SEASON (£490 P.P.P.N.) & £3,120 P.P.
IN THE LOW-SEASON (£410 P.P.P.N.).
MEAL PLAN: NO MEALS INCLUDED. VARIOUS MEAL PLANS AVAILABLE.
SPECIAL OFFERS: FREE NIGHTS, HONEYMOON, TWO-CENTRE.