These Maldives hotels are reinventing the slowcation

Inside, white beams set against wooden ceilings make you feel as though you’re nestled in the belly of a whale in the best possible way, while the open bathroom looks out onto the sea, being accessible from the deck to ensure you’re able to soak up the stunning setting as much as possible.

As in Dhigali, here it’s the scenery takes centre stage. Months on from our trip I still find my mind wandering back to the contentment I felt during a solitary stroll back from dinner, belly full and gazing in awe up at the seemingly endless twinkling of stars that speckled the night’s sky above the overwater bridges. Evenings at Kandolhu are still and serene, even in stormy weather.

Truly, there’s a certain type of whimsy at Kandolhu which you can’t bottle. Crabs scuttle across paths as you make your way over the island, brimming with all the magic of a Studio Ghibli film. And once you arrive at your destination for dinner, things only get better.

In the three nights we spent at Kandolhu there was never a moment where we were hungry, with its six restaurants serving up everything from Indian classics at Sea Grill to Mexican and Peruvian fare oceanside at Ata Roa. Food at Kandolhu is exceptional and varied to suit all tastes, with standout favourites from our stay including the wonderfully fresh local catch ceviche at The Market, the juicy jumbo prawns at the Sea Grill, the blissfully tender, flavourful birria tacos at Ata Roa and the full performance dining experience offered up at Banzai, where Japanese dishes are prepared in front of your eyes with theatrical knife work by chef Raymond.

Truly, the thought, care and pride that goes into every experience in Kandolhu is apparent across the board, from our waiter Ameen going our of his way to brighten up the day with a witty quip or freshly picked hibiscus from the garden, to the restorative, tailored massages that we indulged in at Varu spa.

A stunning setting in itself including a steam room, sauna and outdoor pool in addition to its treatment rooms, a visit to Varu is a must during your stay to help ease you into the gentler pace of island living.

Kuoni offer seven nights at five-star Kandolhu in a Ocean Villa on Full Board A La Carte, including flights with SriLankan Airlines from London Heathrow and transfers in resort. Prices for selected departures in June and November 2025, based on two adults starts from £5,549 per person.

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