5* Velassaru Maldives

Velassaru is located on its own coral island soaked in year-round sunshine; a resort that combines minimalist contemporary chic and private ocean hideaway, a short speedboat ride from Malé International Airport. Open and spacious water bungalows, villas and suites are perched atop the lagoon or on the white sands that merge into translucent turquoise waters. 

A glistening beach and bright turquoise lagoon create a WOW factor on arrival. 

You have a choice of five tantalising dining venues and two bars, each with its own unique style and location. Vela, the main restaurant, is the perfect place to enjoy dishes from the interactive buffet and live cooking stations. But it’s definitely worth trying the à la carte offerings which include the popular Teppanyaki with its idyllic spot over the lagoon, serving Japanese cuisine with a creative twist, and Sand, serving dishes inspired by the Indian Ocean on candlelit tables dotted along the beach. Fen Bar is cool and minimalistic with mood lighting and chilled music, and the place to relax with a cocktail and shisha. For drinks in a gorgeous setting, head to Chill Bar at the water’s edge and grab yourself one of the chic day beds overlooking the ocean.

Other facilities include a recommended watersports centre and snorkelling directly from the beach.

Our top tip is to escape aboard a Dhoni sail boat to a secluded sandbank – here you can enjoy an intimate afternoon of complete privacy as you tuck into your luxury hamper with a glass of bubbly in hand.

This pristine natural hideaway is the perfect Maldives escape.