Jumeirah Olhahali Island Hotel

Olhahali Island, Maldives

This isolated, villa-only Maldives retreat feels cut off from the cares of the world. Yet Jumeirah’s trademark luxury enfolds you, from expert-led snorkelling to cocktail-fuelled rooftop soirées

Arrival at Jumeirah Olhahali Island, isolated in the North Malé Atoll, is something you’ll never forget. Hop off the luxury speedboat (an hour’s journey from Malé airport), to a true Maldivian welcome: smiling faces excitedly introducing you to your island home to the soundtrack of bongo drums. Paradise starts here.

Take your pick from 67 villas on the island, each with direct access to the ocean, their curved white exteriors resembling, appropriately, sailing yachts, their bow-shaped rooftops a magnificent spot for sunset soirées. Each villa comes with a private 7m pool and a huge bathroom leading to a tropical courtyard. Nothing can compare to gazing out into endless shades of blue, feeling like you’re miles away from civilisation. But it’s worth wrenching yourself away from your villa to discover the range of gourmet, wellness and adventure-based experiences. Start, perhaps, with a sunrise guided yoga session, followed by a Tibetan sound bath, then breakfast at Glow (make sure you sample the morning Maldivian curry).

Later, a house-reef snorkel with the on-island marine biologist beckons. Expect to see a flurry of colourful sea life – the likes of clown fish, parrotfish and oriental sweetlips and, if you’re lucky, green turtles, reef sharks and eagle rays. Or, if you prefer, board a semi-submarine to see the marine show. Either way, any post-water adventure calls for a relaxing massage at the Talise spa.

Jumeirah regulars may be familiar with Kayto, a Peruvian-Japanese Nikkei restaurant, and its Maldivian edition delights with spicy tuna tartare, miso caramelised aubergine and tender wagyu beef. Elsewhere, expect laid-back beach dining, Maldivian family-style dishes and cocktail beach parties.

In a world where it feels increasingly difficult to switch off, soaking up the sun or clocking up pool laps in a picture-perfect setting feels like a genuine privilege.

Words by Megan Dickson. Villas from £524. +960 668 2600, jumeirah.com