Gili Lankanfushi offers a laid-back tropical island escape to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.
To claim that Gili Lankanfushi could be ‘best resort in the Maldives’ is bold talk about an archipelagic nation where every island offers a slice of paradise— but at Gili, guests experience a distinct sense of adventure, indulge in epicurean delights, embrace holistic wellness, and enjoy a captivating retreat journey, that is hard to match!
The first order of business as we step onto the private Gili Lankanfushi speedboat at Male airport was embracing the ‘barefoot luxury’ ethos. From taking off our shoes to switching to ‘Gili Time’, these small but significant details set the tone for a slower pace, and we were here for it!
After a very short 20-minute ride, as we approached the postcard-worthy, coral-rich, verdant island it became obvious, this really is a tropical hideaway and although it might not be as far-flung, it is set on one of the most picturesque crystal-clear lagoons in the Indian Ocean in close proximity to shifting sandbanks. Surrounded by pristine white sand and adorned with thriving palm trees-it is love at first sight!
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Greeted like family at the arrival pier, we were introduced to Kiki, our designated Mr Friday. The trusty sidekick from Robinson Crusoe, also proved to be our ultimate island companion who helped us curate our ideal trip to perfection. He was always on-call and promptly replied to messages even before sunrise!
Staying on theme and offering a Robinson Crusoe style back-to-nature hideaway, the 45 treehouse-looking overwater villas complete with thatched roofs, feature open-air living spaces, roof terraces and private decks with direct access to clear, aquamarine waters. The masterpiece rustic-chic design is inspired by the resort’s natural surroundings, with glass floor panels offering a glimpse of the corals blooming below and close encounters with local fish. These private sanctuaries, also boast overwater hammocks, where we spent blissful moments in deep contemplation.
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Our home was the Crusoe Residences-a sprawling villa standing on wooden stilts that has been very intelligently designed with flexible living arrangements to create a second bedroom. The rustic décor includes handmade furniture made with recycled materials and the most plush bedding. The signature open-air bathroom with private coral garden, roof terrace with a daybed and sun deck with direct ocean access made it a private self-sustainable sanctuary. The rooms feature a myriad of luxurious amenities including a menu of items you don’t even know you need, like a makeup fridge, available if you fancy! Offering complete privacy and seamless indoor-outdoor living, it is accessible only by boat, and we were happily marooned on this island-on an island.
On land we nipped around on our trusty bikes and discovered a full-size tennis court and state-of-the-art gym. Those seeking more of an aquatic adventure and exploring the surrounding natural wonders, there is surfing, diving, snorkelling with manta rays and big game fishing trips on the resort’s luxury yacht all available. For a quintessential ‘movie under the stars’ experience, reserve loungers at the Jungle Cinema, a charming open-air space cocooned by lush green trees. The Maldivian cooking class is a fun and engaging. Needless to say, there are endless pleasures and a packed activity book, on both land and in the sea.
Nourishing the body with wholesome food is top priority on the island. From ocean to plate and plant to plate, the alluring culinary offerings across the three standout restaurants include the freshest catch from the ocean alongside carefully sourced seasonal ingredients, often picked directly from the organic ‘Gili Garden’. Serving a fusion of flavours from around the world, alongside an array of local dishes there is also a selection of plant-based, halal, and gluten-free options.
The breakfast feast is extraordinary-an entire cold room filled with artisan cheese and premium meats, to a multi-page menu with every kind of sweet and savoury option including hoppers and acai bowls, if the sunrise didn’t make you jump out of bed, this spread truly will! Bob, the Grey Heron, the permanent Gili resident, will be there to greet you every morning. Say Hello from us!
From bustling Asian market-style buffets to intimate beachside dining surrounded by lanterns, the winning food experience engages all your senses. Gili may draw guests with its breathtaking location, but it’s the deliciously innovative and nourishing meals that stand out as a major highlight of this remote island
To soothe the soul with a wellness-focused break, guests are invited to sign up for the sound-meditation and sunrise yoga classes that will awaken the senses. The open-air Yoga Champa is a blissful retreat, where you can take advantage of private therapies and healing sessions.
Meera Spa is the picture-perfect sanctuary for mindful relaxation where they combine ancient techniques with modern equipment for a more holistic approach. Tailor-made wellness journeys stretching over a few days can also be designed by top-notch therapists. For an instant mood-booster the signature Ocean Essence Therapy, that will harmonise energy and restore balance with the help of soothing ocean sounds and natural elements is a must-try. The spa’s setting is magical, and the unexpected bonus is the glass floor that allows you to watch the colourful marine life while unwinding.
A holiday at Gili Lankanfushi is all about fully immersing yourself in nature and disconnecting from the everyday world. From outdoor activities, fitness classes, wellness therapies and spa sessions, Gili offers once-in-a-lifetime experiences, making it a top choice for loyal guests. As the epitome of understated rustic luxury, this is the ultimate fantastical island escape.
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