Soneva Fushi, Baa Atoll, Maldives

Set on the idyllic and otherwise uninhabited island of Kunfunadhoo, Soneva Fushi was the first Robinson Crusoe style hideaway in the Maldives. Created by Sonu and Eva Shivdasani, whose vision was 'intelligent luxury', it has been designed to have minimal impact on the environment. The island's natural beauty has certainly been retained. The resort operates a 'no news, no shoes' policy, is a haven of calm for the mind, body and soul. The natural building materials used throughout the resort add to the sense of being at one with nature.

LOCATION 

Arrived by seaplane from Malé about 30 minutes and then it's a short transfer in a traditional dhoni boat to the verdant island of Kunfunadhoo.

VILLAS 

65 vast, 1-9 bedroom luxury villas and private residences are backed by jungle foliage, hidden among the treets and overlook the Indian Ocean within touching distance of a pristine, Biosphere UNESCO protected coral reef. Inside, high ceilings and walls of glass. Each villa is assigned a personal butler - a  Mr./Ms. Friday - to cater to guests' every need. Thatched rooms are set apart, even bathrooms have a garden. Natural indigenous materials are used throughout, giving a simple, rustic-chic look, the stereo, TV, DVD player and other accessories are disguised behind coconut wood and water hyacinth. 

HIGHLIGHTS 

Activities on offer include treetop yoga, sailing, kite surfing and diving with a resident marine biologist. There's also an open-air cinema and a planetarium to keep guests entertained. The resort's award-winning spa offers a range of relaxing treatments, including soothing body wraps and hot stone massages. 

There's an excellent choice of dining options, including Mihiree Mitha, which serves wonderfully fresh sushi, and By The Beach, for Korean-inspired cuisine by candlelight. The resort also has its own own organic vegetable and herb gardens. Guests can take a sommelier-led tour of the resort's wine cellar, which includes more than 7,000 bottles.