There’s a peculiar feeling that washes over you when you let go of everything you know and embrace the rhythm of island life. After being warmly persuaded to leave my shoes behind for the duration of my stay, I found myself immersed in an experience that can only be described as the perfect blend of tranquillity, escapism and discovery. This was my introduction to Gili Lankanfushi – a place so enchanting, it seems almost too good to be true.
Located just 20 minutes by boat from Malé, the capital of the Maldives, Gili Lankanfushi stands as one of the most celebrated island resorts in the world. And for good reason. Here, the art of luxury doesn’t simply lie in extravagant design and impeccable service (although both are undeniable). It’s about redefining the very essence of what it means to be at peace. The resort harmonises luxury, sustainability, and adventure in a seamless dance, creating an atmosphere that beckons you to forget the world and immerse yourself fully in the present.
Image credit: Gili Lankanfushi
Upon arrival, the first rule of Gili Lankanfushi is clear: leave the outside world behind – “no news,no shoes.” I was handed a bag and encouraged to forget about my footwear altogether. The island even has its own time zone – “Gili time” – a cheeky invitation to leave the ticking clocks of everyday life at the door. The rhythm of the island is unhurried, and your experience unfolds at its own pace, with an emphasis on comfort, joy and chasing that sunset.
But what truly makes Gili Lankanfushi so special? Perhaps it’s the way the resort allows guests to discover their own sense of solitude. The most secluded villas – the iconic Crusoe Residences – offer a sense of being cast away on a deserted island, without ever feeling disconnected from the comforts of luxury. Accessible only by water taxi, these exclusive retreats offer guests a brief yet captivating journey, gliding past shoals of reef sharks and rays lazily resting in the warm, turquoise waters before arriving at the doorstep of your private residence.
Each of the seven Crusoe Residences evokes the spirit of Robinson Crusoe, a nod to the enduring appeal of deserted-island tales, with a chic, understated aesthetic that merges traditional Maldivian design with modern comforts. The feeling of being marooned in paradise is intoxicating, and yet, these villas promise the utmost in privacy and exclusivity, ensuring that every moment feels like an adventure waiting to unfold.
Image credit: Gili Lankanfushi
Inside, the villas are a sanctuary of calm. Wooden walkways lead you to spacious decks with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, where the horizon seems to stretch out endlessly. Inside,the open-plan design encourages relaxation, with natural materials and earthy tones blending effortlessly into the surrounding environment. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated, from the luxurious overwater hammocks to the eco-conscious elements that define the resort’s commitment to sustainability.
But beyond the design and architecture, it’s the atmosphere of Gili Lankanfushi that stays with you long after you’ve left. It’s a place where you feel as if you’ve been swept into another world entirely, one where the only thing that matters is the sound of the waves lapping against the shore and the feeling of the warm breeze on your skin. There’s a sense of quiet luxury that permeates every inch of the island – a reminder that, sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest.
As I boarded the water taxi to return to the mainland, I couldn’t help but reflect on the experience. Gili Lankanfushi is a journey into the heart of what it means to truly unwind and reconnect with nature. In a world that often feels overwhelmingly connected, the island offers the rare gift of disconnection, allowing you to experience paradise on your own terms. Whether you’re lost in the beauty of the surroundings or simply enjoying the quiet luxury of your villa, there’s no mistaking it – Gili Lankanfushi is a destination that is, quite simply, unforgettable.
Main image credit: Gili Lankanfushi
