Islands of plenty

There’s more to the Maldives than honeymoons – here are our resort picks to suit all types of travellers

- APRIL HUTCHINSON

When it comes to sheer escapism, it’s hard to beat the Maldives. But with so many resorts to choose from, how do you decide the right one for you? Here are some suggestions, whether you are planning a family holiday, a pampering break or even a corporate gathering.

BEST FOR… SPA LOVERS

In terms of wellness, it’s hard to match Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru (fourseasons.com), set in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Landaa’s Spa and Ayurvedic Retreat is one of the most comprehensive spas in the country and offers Anti Gravity yoga, a Yoga Energy Trail, and Panchakarma, an ayurvedic cleansing programme. Request one of the redesigned and extended over-water villas, each with a 12-metre private pool, and sign up to Manta on Call so the resort team can contact you as soon as these graceful creatures are spotted.

Part of the exclusive LVMH hotel group, Cheval Blanc Randheli (chevalblanc. com) comes with an entire spa island, accessible only by boat and featuring Guerlain treatments, its own pool, hammam and Spa Bar. Elsewhere, Huvafen Fushi (huvafenfushi.com) features the world’s first-ever underwater spa, with treatments that match the location in their brilliance.

BEST FOR… FAMILIES

With its Explorers Kids Club – a circus-themed area with trampoline, splash park, gourmet kitchen and a stage for performances – Niyama (niyama.com) has one of the most comprehensive family offerings. Four different “tribes” are welcomed at its kids’ clubs: Globetrotters (12-24 months), Adventurers (three- to four-year-olds), Voyagers (five- to seven-year-olds) and Pioneers (eight to 12), with activities ranging from lullabies in Dhivehi, the local language, to dolphin spotting and cookery lessons.