Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort

Set on and around the lush Dhigufinolhu Island – just a 35-minute speedboat ride from Malé International Airport – the Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort sits surrounded by a limpid lagoon that’s home to flitting rays and baby reef sharks.

110 spacious villas sit either over the water or just a few steps back from the beach, positioned for picture-perfect sunrises or sunsets. Many enjoy their own private plunge pools and all are modern, tranquil spaces with subtle Maldivian stylistic cues.

The resort offers everything the archipelago is famous for and more. Take a plunge in the lagoon or kayak out to Guli Fushi Island for snorkelling. There’s a PADI 5-star Dive Centre offering course and excursions out to the best nearby dive sites and a Water Sports Centre for windsurfing, water-skiing, surfing, kite-surfing, parasailing and more. Fishing, sailing and island-hopping yacht trips are a firm favourite and kids are well looked after at the excellent children’s club.

Of course you can choose to be a little less active, perhaps at the sumptuous spa, on the beach or by the pool. There’s also bespoke yoga and a wellness practitioner.

Guests are similarly spoiled for choice when it comes to dining, with nine restaurants and bars serving up seafood and meat grills, fine Italian cuisine, varying themed buffet dinners, and lighter meals poolside for lunch. Further dining options can be enjoyed at the Dhigu’s sister island within the lagoon.