FAIRMOUNT MALDIVES, SIRRU FEN FUSHI
In a place where the spectacular is a norm, it does take something special to be truly exceptional. One of the most beautiful destinations in the world, the Maldives is spoilt for choice when it comes to luxurious hospitality. The Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi, on the Shaviyani Atoll in North Maldives, however, makes a compelling case of being primus inter pares, boasting a 200m long swimming pool that bisects the island, connecting Onu Onu, the beachfront bar, crafted entirely of bamboo by Balinese artisans, on the west coast to the Willow Stream Spa in the east.
This direct connection between rejuvenation and libation is hardly the only thing the resort has going for it. There are 120 villas here, including luxury safari-style tented interior jungle, all complete with a private pool, while copper bathroom fittings and carved wood detailing on furniture lend them a bohemian rustic chic vibe.
Surrounded by abundant sea life and a pristine coral house reef, Sirru Fen Fushi, which means ‘secret water island’ in the local Dhivehi language, regularly welcomes manta rays, turtles, and bottlenose and spinner dolphins in the crystal-clear waters of its 600ha lagoon – the largest resort lagoon in the Maldives. As an added bonus, the 9km long house reef, directly accessible from the beach, is also, uniquely, home to a manta ray cleaning station, a perfect opportunity to see this majestic marine creature in a beautiful display of aquatic symbiosis with smaller sea life.
