Just a 20-minute boat ride from Male airport and surrounded by crystal clear waters is Gili Lankanfushi. With a Robinson Crusoe barefoot luxury philosophy, this award-winning eco-resort is a destination within a destination.
The whole Gili experience is seamless and from the moment you arrive, you feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of life. It’s intimate and luxurious with a castaway vibe. As you set foot on the jetty you are greeted by your Mr or Ms Friday, a dedicated butler whose job is to ensure your stay is second to none.
With just 45 sumptuous overwater villas, including seven Crusoe Residences and The Private Reserve, it feels like a private paradise. The overwater villas are nothing short of fabulous, with split-level decking that opens out directly onto the ocean. Inside the generous space comprises of an open-air lounge, bedroom and an impressive bathroom with an outdoor shower, free-standing bath and double sink facing floor-to-ceiling windows. The private roof terrace is the ideal spot to soak up a spectacular sunset.
One of the standout features of Gili is its world-class spa and wellness facilities. Tucked away on a secluded bay and perched across the ocean is Meera Spa, a tranquil haven designed to bring the outdoors in with glass-panelled floors, endless views of turquoise waters and open-air walkways. Here you can experience a customised wellness programme that incorporates a range of global therapies, drawing on age-old cultures and knowledge.
To celebrate the launch of their new spa and wellness menu, House of Coco caught up with spa manager, Ni Wayan Eka Rianti to find out more.
Rianti tells me that unlike other spas, Meera is focussed on creating a bespoke wellness experience that is tailormade to suit guests’ needs. “In addition to our diverse range of treatments, spanning relaxation, Ayurveda, body and face care, journeys and therapeutic treatments, our skilled therapists curate personalised experiences modified to each individual’s needs.” There are immersive one-to-five-day wellness journeys, that include a range of curated restorative experiences with long-lasting benefits. Journeys range from a lavish five-day detox retreat, aimed to purify body and mind with a host of treatments and healing experiences, to a one-day Ayurvedic remedy journey, which revives weary travellers through therapeutic massage. New active programmes combine surfing or scuba diving with tailored spa treatments to allow guests to reach their full potential whether under the sea or riding the waves. Rianti concludes, “Our team goes beyond traditional therapy, they become your wellness buddy treating you with genuine smiles, love and care.”
Away from the classic massage, the spa team has designed a collection of distinctive treatments. Rianti explains, “Our Deep Muscle Fusion is a massage created for athletic, sporty guests who require complex techniques including stretching, myofascial release and trigger points to address stiffness and detox lactic acid.” In addition to this, launching in April is a Pairing Journey. “This is a synergy of Eastern and Western traditions that enhances the overall benefit of the treatment. This approach is adapted from the Five Elements (Earth, Water, Fire, Wind). For example, Earth Journey will help the guest feel grounded and calm with Shirodara and foot reflexology massage.” She says.
For anyone feeling jetlagged or struggling to sleep the spa team are on hand to help. Their Mindful Sleep Journey is designed to enhance the quality of sleep incorporating breathing exercises, sound healing, relaxing massage and aromatherapy.
Throughout the year, visiting practitioners specialising in healing and wellbeing take residency at Gili hosting curated programmes. Rianti explains, “Previous practitioners have included energy healers, reiki specialists, Watsu therapists, acupuncturists, and crystal sound healers. Our ever-changing roster of visiting practitioners represents Gili’s commitment to offering world-class service and amenities amid the tropical splendour of our island.”
The eco-conscious ethos of Gili Lankanfushi extends to the spa, Rianti tells me that sustainability is at the heart of their operations. “We have aligned with VOYA, Sodashi and Ocean R, a product line committed to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Furthermore, we foster partnership with several local brands to contribute and support the local business community.” She concludes, “Some ingredients used in our treatments are sourced internally from the resort’s organic garden.”
What sets Meera apart from other resort spas is not only the amazing treatments but the way the natural beauty and surroundings are showcased. “Each of the treatment rooms has strategically placed glass panels, positioned directly below massage beds so guests can enjoy the beauty of the ocean while experiencing a relaxing touch at the same time,” says Rianti. The Ayurveda champa is an outdoor treatment room covered by lush green bushes by the beach. Here guests can indulge in a treatment with natural sounds of birds, wind and the sea. Rianti tells me that one of the guest’s favourite spots is the relaxation area. “You can relish in unobstructed views, watching the waves breaking on the reef while sipping our signature ginger tea post treatment.”
Gili Lankafushi is a luxe oasis for discerning travellers looking for a relaxing, rejuvenating retreat.
Nightly rates at Gili Lankanfushi start from £1,397/$1,722 based on two adults sharing a Villa Suite with breakfast included. For more information or to book please visit Gili Lankanfushi
House of Coco travelled to the Maldives via Dubai with Emirates. London Heathrow to Male return is £1,749. This is based on Premium Economy from London Heathrow to Dubai and then Economy from Dubai to Male. Prices subject to change.
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