Huvafen Fushi

Just the fact that the Maldives exist is extraordinary in itself. Were the waters of the Indian Ocean just a few feet higher, there’d be virtually nothing here. As it is, though, these islands seem tailor-made for tourism — each one a picture-perfect island idyll, a soft sand beach ringing an impossibly dense jungle, afloat in vivid turquoise seas.

With such promising raw materials, all a hotel has to do to excel is simply stay out of nature’s way. At Huvafen Fushi, it’s the natural setting that stands out: villas stand either on the beach facing the lagoon or else out on stilts over the water — and the two Ocean Pavilions go another hundred meters out to sea, each complete with its own infinity pool.

From the outside the thatched-roof villas look traditional enough, but the interiors are surprisingly modern, with a bit of urban loft apartment flavor about them. Each one comes with plasma televisions, surround sound, and furniture by contemporary designers up to and including Frank Gehry — Robinson Crusoe it isn’t.

The spa’s underwater treatment rooms offer a startling departure from the everyday massage, while above deck yoga and fitness programs are available. The three restaurants draw heavily from locally grown ingredients as well as an impressive wine cellar. All in all it’s stunning and perfectly sedate — if you’re feeling rowdy, this might not be your place, but if it’s a serene desert island experience you’re after, you could hardly do better.

How to get there:

On your arrival at Male International Airport you will be met by Huvafen Fushi’s Airport Host who will guide you to your transfer. Your Maldives experience begins with a 30-minute speed boat ride from the airport. For those who prefer to fly you can take a 15 minute charter sea plane transfer. Please contact customerservice@tablethotels.com to arrange airport transfers.

• 43 Rooms
• Style: Modern Design
• Atmosphere: Secluded
• 1 Guest Review

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