Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort

Sirru Fen Fushi, which means ‘island of secret water’ in Dhivehi, is a fitting name for this secluded resort in the remote Shaviyani Atoll in the north of the Maldives. Just a 55-minute seaplane flight from Malé brings guests to this solitary retreat, where barefoot living meets laid-back boho style.

At the heart of the resort lies a 200-metre-long infinity pool, one of the longest in the Maldives, set amidst tropical greenery and overlooking the Indian Ocean. The 120 villas, whether on the beach, over the water or nestled amongst the palm trees, are designed using natural materials such as wood and copper, and feature warm, earthy tones and handcrafted details from local craftsmen. A particular highlight: five luxury safari tents, four of them nestled in the island’s green lush middle, one directly on the beach, offer a surprising glamping experience with a touch of Robinson Crusoe flair.

Sustainability is deeply embedded in the resort’s philosophy. Examples of this commitment include solar energy, a coral regeneration project to protect the nine-kilometre house reef and the world’s first underwater art museum in the Maldives: The Coralarium by Jason deCaires Taylor. At the Sustainability Lab, guests can create keepsakes from recycled plastic waste collected from the ocean.

The inspiration continues at the Art Studio, where guests can participate in creative activities such as coconut painting. The Balinese-inspired Arufen Spa offers holistic regeneration for all ages, with dedicated kids’ spa treatments. As the sun sets over the endless horizon, guests can head to one of the four restaurants to indulge in a variety of flavours as Japanese finesse at the Kata gourmet restaurant. Later, the absence of light pollution on this abundant island allows for a night of stargazing under a sky full of stars that feels truly out of this world.