MALDIVES: Soneva Fushi
Our journey to Soneva Fushi began with a breathtaking seaplane ride that left us in awe as we landed in the middle of the ocean, greeted by the charming “Soneva Fushi International Airport” sign.
Nestled in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi is not just one of the Maldives’ largest islands, but also a pioneer in sustainability and barefoot luxury. Recently named 8th on the 50 Best Hotels in the World list for 2024, this resort blends eco-consciousness with indulgence in perfect harmony.
After an unforgettable start at our first resort, we arrived at Soneva Fushi with no expectations, ready to see what made it stand out.
With just 63 villas scattered across the island, each nestled within dense tropical foliage, Soneva Fushi feels both intimate and expansive. The island is home to over 500 free-roaming bunnies and chickens, adding to the resort’s rustic charm.
Our stay took us to the stunning one-bedroom Crusoe Villa, located on the sunrise side of the island. This two-story beach house, with its private pool and stretch of pristine beach, was the kind of beauty you only see in glossy magazines. Every detail, from the spacious interiors to the seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, was crafted with the utmost care.
The bathroom was an unexpected delight: a vast, open space with a bathtub that overlooks the lush greenery—a perfect spot for stargazing in total privacy. The sustainable, coral-friendly skincare products were a thoughtful touch, and I appreciated the extra amenities like SPF lotion and aloe vera gel, ready to refresh after a day in the sun.
After a warm welcome from our Barefoot Guardian (essentially our personal butler for the stay!), we hopped on bicycles and set off to explore the island. Cycling through the tropical jungle, surrounded by the sounds of nature and birdsong, felt like something out of a dream. The island is almost 4 km long, and cycling around was not only a relaxing way to take in the surroundings but also a great low-impact workout—perfect for balancing out the indulgent meals ahead!
Time was limited, but we made sure to squeeze in as many activities as possible. From a visit to the Jungle Gym, art & glass studio, and Soneva Soul spa to discovering the “Secret Room” (a hidden treasure trove of complimentary chocolates, dairy-free ice creams, and a charcuterie room), there was never a dull moment.
In the evenings, we enjoyed cocktails at the Sandbank—a truly magical experience. Not only did it offer a stunning setting, but it also highlighted the resort’s sustainability initiatives while providing a relaxed atmosphere for guests to mingle and connect. We were particularly impressed by the presentation from Eco Centro and its forward-thinking approach to sustainability.
As the sun set, casting the Sandbank in beautiful pink and golden hues, the resort’s photographer captured some unforgettable moments. We sipped on freshly opened coconuts with a splash of cardamom vodka—a local specialty—feeling completely immersed in the serene beauty of the surroundings.
The next morning, we were treated to a breakfast like no other. Set on the beach, shaded by palm trees, it was the perfect start to the day. As a firm believer that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, I was in heaven with the variety of fresh, flavorful dishes available. Whether you’re after a traditional spread or something more exotic, there’s something for every taste here.
Afterwards, we decided to pay another visit to the Eco Centro for a deeper dive into the resort’s sustainability efforts. Our guide, the Eco Waste Manager, took us through the impressive systems in place to minimize waste and maximize efficiency—proof that luxury doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. It is a remarkable hub of sustainability. We learned how Soneva Fushi tackles waste management with a creative approach: turning coconut shells into charcoal, collecting rainwater to water the vegetable gardens, reusing broken glass for new products, and even repurposing aluminium from cans into souvenirs.
Soneva’s resort-made coconut oil is produced and bottled on the island for use in the kitchens and spas of Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani. At Eco Centro, they produce approximately 30 litres of oil from around 750 coconuts per month!
The resort’s commitment to the environment was evident in every corner, and it was inspiring to see how luxury could coexist with such responsible practices.
One of the most unforgettable parts of our stay was the snorkeling. The coral reef here is absolutely alive—bright, healthy, and teeming with marine life. We even had a couple of baby sharks keeping us company, which was a surreal experience! The reef felt like a living, breathing world of its own, and to witness it firsthand was both awe-inspiring and emotional.
Soneva Fushi offers an abundance of activities, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Whether you're into fitness or adventure, there’s something for everyone. With two gyms, tennis, paddle, table tennis, volleyball, a zipline, glass studio, and even a cinema, the options are endless. And for the little ones, The Den—a dream kids’ club—will keep them entertained all day long.
But perhaps the best activity of all? Simply lounging by our beach house. With front-row sunbeds facing the most pristine turquoise waters I’ve ever seen, it was the ultimate way to relax. Our jungle villa provided plenty of space to unwind, with an open-air bathroom perfect for evening baths, surrounded by the calming sounds of nature. At Soneva Fushi, relaxation reaches a whole new level.
Soneva Fushi is the epitome of luxury and sustainability. It offers a seamless blend of unspoiled natural beauty, world-class amenities, and a commitment to the environment that makes it stand out among the best resorts in the world. Whether you're looking to unwind in ultimate luxury, immerse yourself in nature, or indulge in adventurous activities, this island has it all.
The resort’s founders, Sonu Shivdasani and his wife Eva, have redefined luxury holidays with their unwavering commitment to sustainability and wellness. Soneva Fushi is like the Rolls Royce of tropical destinations—where every detail is considered, and every moment feels exceptional. As the resort celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, it’s clear that Soneva Fushi has perfected the art of luxury, rejuvenating escape. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to year after year.
If you wish to learn more and book your stay, please contact me right here.