Soneva Fushi has led the way in barefoot Maldivian luxury since it opened in 1995, setting the tone for sustainable design and castaway chic style that countless resorts have emulated. To celebrate a quarter century of desert island escapism, the resort is adding eight new gorgeous overwaters villas on the eastern side of the island, which will welcome guests from August 2020.
Connected to the island by a wooden jetty, the one- and two-bedroom villas are positioned so guests can choose from sunrise or sunset views, and each features a private pool and a second-floor water slide for fast-track access into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Outdoor spaces are the focal point of the villas, with daybeds and loungers, overwater catamaran nets and sunken lounge areas, as well as a covered rooftop dining sala.
Inside the 584-sqm one-bedroom retreat, the bedroom features a retractable roof allowing the morning sun or the twinkle of stars to shine right into the villa. There’s a children’s sleeping area and en-suite dressing room and bathroom, as well as an outdoor bathroom with open-air bathtub and direct access to the ocean. The slightly larger 857-sqm two-bedroom villa has a second en-suite bedroom and can sleep four adults and two children.
Guests can choose between a bicycle or tricycle to use throughout their stay, and each villa is well looked after thanks to the resort’s Mr. and Mrs. Friday butler service.
Situated in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort has built up a selection of family friendly activities and attractions over the years, including the open-air Cinema Paradiso, an ice-cream parlour and chocolate room, an Observatory and a glass-blowing studio, as well as dedicated kids’ activities at The Den, nine restaurants and lounges and a Six Senses Spa.