by Miranda Byron

After a visit to the unforgettable Indian Ocean nation of the Maldives, many things will assuredly stand out in your memory. A small nation comprised of nineteen coral atolls, the Maldives is world-renowned for its sparkling white beaches, perfect clear waters, and a rich cultural history. The beautiful resorts that dot the country’s many small isles are famous for providing discriminating travelers with the ultimate tropical experience- and now two of these hideaways have set an unprecedented standard for luxury at an exclusive rental for US $1M per week.

Two of the most iconic island resorts in the Maldives, Soneva Fushi and Soneva Gili, are extending the opportunity to exclusively rent their complement of resort services for seven days.

Soneva Fushi Resort on the island of Kunfunadhoo, located in the north Baa Atoll, is host to sixty-five residences and a Robinson Crusoe-style environment. Easily accessible from Male by a half-hour plane ride, this 138-acre island is beautifully isolated from the rest of the ocean, not to mention the world, dotted with thirty-two private swimming pools and villas. These villas offer “Intelligent Luxury” themed by category, ranging from the Jungle Reserve to The Retreats, all presided over by expert personal attendants.

The Six Senses Spa, one of Soneva Fushi’s most reputed attractions, invites visitors to melt in mind and body amid a rejuvenating, utterly serene setting. For those less inclined to lay back, hidden jogging trails and bike paths winding through the rich vegetation offer a rare opportunity to explore the island’s tropical depths, a must for the intrepid spirit.

It gets better. Nearby Soneva Gili Resort, set on a tiny coral island, holds the distinction of the first ever over-water resort in the Maldives. If you’re wondering what ‘over-water’ means, imagine an exotic, beautifully-designed stilted hideaway hovering over the still atoll waters, commanding a view of the sea and a seaside experience unlike anywhere else. With forty-four of these, lavish wine options and a wealth of dining choices ranging from barbeques to gourmet feasts in the over-water restaurant and lounge, it’s entertainment well worth the cost of admission.

Here, the Six Senses Spa replenishes with traditional Maldivian sand massages and other unexpected delights, including glass floor panels beneath the massage tables affording visitors an inspiring, intimate experience with the marine beauty of the Maldives in the most relaxing way imaginable. A PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) dive school and a wide range of water sports extend the opportunity for adventure to those seeking the full spectrum of island thrills.

For children, the resorts offer the opportunity to hang out in a tree house bunk, surrounded by a lush natural playground straight out of their wildest imagination. Don’t trim your guest list, either. Soneva Fushi can handle around 134 adults and 20 children, while Soneva Gili can comfortably house 94 adults.

Still, this is an offer available only from May through November of each year. If you’re keen to take advantage of the rare, absolutely exclusive opportunity to take over an entire island for a wedding or whatever else you’ve got in mind, remember to give plenty of lead time. There’s a lot to organize, but even more to offer.

Filed under: Featured Island, Island-Hopping, Regional