An idyllic secluded island resort in a crystal-clear coral lagoon with a world-class reef.
The hotel
One of the very first luxury resorts in the Maldives, the understated and elegant Baros has a loyal following. Located conveniently close to Malé, just a 25-minute speedboat transfer from the airport, this all-villa, toes-in-the-sand private island is a haven for honeymooners and grown-up family holidays (no under 8s allowed).
Surrounded by one of the best house-reefs in the Maldives, as well as the archipelago’s original dive centre, the waters here are aflutter with tropical fish, turtles, rays and coral. There are 45 beachside villas and 30 water villas, some with their own infinity pools and lagoon-side jacuzzis, while the entry-level deluxe villas are just steps from the turquoise water. The Baros Residence is the ultimate romantic hidey-hole surrounded by palms, with its own private pool, garden, four-poster daybed and butler.
Food is a big winner here – from the freshest seafood at Cayenne Grill and fine-dining French cuisine at white-tented, overwater Lighthouse, where you can spot sharks, to local, Asian and international classics at informal à la carte and buffet restaurant Lime.
Susie Loves
Villas with pools can order a floating breakfast to their room, the perfect start to the day.
Book a sunset dinner cruise on a traditional dhoni.
Go for after-dinner cocktails at Sails Bar on the beach; they have great live musicians.
