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Gili Lankanfushi Maldives
Lankanfushi Island, North Malé Atoll, Maldives · Independent · Grand Luxury
Originally opened in 2001 as Soneva Gili, the property was a pioneer in the Maldives for its all-overwater design and barefoot luxury concept. In 2012, it was acquired by Singapore-based HPL Hotels & Resorts and rebranded as Gili Lankanfushi while maintaining its signature eco-friendly ethos. The resort underwent a significant renovation in 2019 to enhance its rustic-chic aesthetic and sustainable infrastructure following a fire earlier that year.
- 45 rooms
- Opened 2001
About Gili Lankanfushi Maldives
- The Private Reserve here is billed as the world's largest standalone overwater villa.
- Every guest gets a dedicated "Mr. Friday" host instead of a conventional butler, part of the resort's barefoot, no-shoes ethos.
History
Originally opened in 2001 as Soneva Gili, the property was a pioneer in the Maldives for its all-overwater design and barefoot luxury concept. In 2012, it was acquired by Singapore-based HPL Hotels & Resorts and rebranded as Gili Lankanfushi while maintaining its signature eco-friendly ethos. The resort underwent a significant renovation in 2019 to enhance its rustic-chic aesthetic and sustainable infrastructure following a fire earlier that year.
Restaurants and bars
- Overwater Bar — Bar · Bar
Experiences
- Mr. Friday private guest experience hosts — Private guest experience hosts, on call at any time of day, who take care of arrival and all details of the stay.
- Coral cleaning adventures — Guests can sign up for coral cleaning adventures as part of the resort's environmental initiatives.
- Underwater data collection for scientific organizations — Guests can collect underwater data for scientific organizations such as Manta Trust.
- Aquatic adventures — A range of aquatic adventures is offered to guests.
Amenities
- The Private Reserve, the world’s largest standalone overwater villa
- Dedicated 'Mr. Friday' villa host service for every guest
- 'No news, no shoes' barefoot luxury policy
- Meera Spa with overwater treatment rooms and glass floors
- Gili Veshi marine biology research and conservation center
- Organic garden providing farm-to-table dining experiences
- Pool
- Sauna
- Fitness center
- Tennis
- Beach
- Water sports
- Wine cellar
- Cinema
Awards
- Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards (2025)
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