Astonishingly impressive Gili Lankanfushi is the original pioneer of barefoot luxury in Maldives, where the 'no shoes, no news' philosophy reigns supreme and few visitors come away anything but amazed. Each of the palatial two-floor villas is built over water: they're extraordinary rustic-meets-sophisticated timber creations that are as open to the elements as possible.
The 45 villas range from the ‘standard’ Villa Suite, which has two rooms as well as a sea garden, a sun deck and a bed on the enormous roof terrace for stargazing, to the vast Private Reserve, a free-standing lagoon complex sleeping nine people in the lap of luxury, a short boat ride from the main island. All the buildings are made from natural materials – most woods are imported from sustainable forests elsewhere in Asia – and the attention to detail is incredible, with luxurious treats hidden away under natural fibres in what is one of Maldives’ most environmentally conscious resorts. The resort has not changed massively since it was built almost 20 years ago, but the concept has proven strong enough to remain competitive in the age of mega-luxurious six-star resorts, and it retains many repeat visitors.
The island itself is small but very pretty and is criss-crossed with sand paths, along which guests can cycle to the main communal areas: the infinity pool overlooking the beach, the charming overwater bar and the beachside restaurant, where elaborate buffets and à la carte menus are equally impressive. Foodies will appreciate the wine cellar, a sumptuous subterranean space for private degustation dinners and wine tasting around a huge driftwood table, although By The Sea, an evenings-only Japanese restaurant is hands down the top table on the island. Every room comes with a 'Man Friday' – a butler whose job it is to bring you anything you need. This is certainly not a good place for those who don’t like to be fussed over: with a staff-to-guests ratio of 3:1 – one of the highest in Maldives – staff glide out of nowhere and appear magically to know your name. As well as a dive school, a gym and a water-sports centre (where all non-motorised equipment is free to borrow) there's a brand new marine biology centre with information and lectures for guests on the creatures of the reef.
The island is very convenient for the airport, with the journey taking just 10 minutes by speedboat, and yet you will still feel wonderfully remote at this intelligently luxurious place. If you can afford it, this is a wonderful choice for a truly luxurious yet thoroughly rustic and unpretentious holiday.
