Six Senses Laamu is an amazing place, combining thoughtful luxury, rustic simplicity, outstanding culinary options and plenty of activities. The island truly feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere; getting to Olhuveli involves an hour’s flight south from Male followed by a 15-minute speedboat ride, but a stay here is certainly worth the extra travel time.
The first impression of the island is created by the giant wooden overwater structure where you dock; here you'll find the reception, several dining and drinking options, a library and even an ice cream parlour and chocolate bar, where delicious free treats are given to guests all day long. You'll find that the fantastically well-trained staff's efficiency and problem-solving abilities are second to none.
The island itself is ringed by a gorgeous white beach and boasts a fabulous cyan-blue lagoon where dolphins swim in great numbers all year round. The 97 villas – all either right on the beach or over water – are something truly special; made from ecologically sourced wood, they evoke a grand, classic style with plenty of luxuries such as espresso machines and Bose entertainment systems. The water villas are particularly impressive, with overwater hammocks, all-glass bathtubs and their own treetop decks. The beach villas – featuring loungers, plunge pools and expansive outdoor bathrooms – are ringed with trees and feel wonderfully private while still offering direct beach access.
The resort houses several superb restaurants. We particularly love Leaf, which overlooks the beach from the treetops; it's reached by crossing a wooden bridge. Sushi at Longitude is absolutely top notch.
Elsewhere on the island there's a pool, a yoga and meditation centre, gym, outdoor cinema, wine cellar, gorgeous spa and full diving school and water sports centre.
The resort has a benchmark sustainability program that's almost unrivalled in Maldives; it includes multiple marine-life conservation projects, community-outreach and educational programs, and efficient waste-reduction plans.
