StyleNest headed to the Indian Ocean to discover the unique, chic and secluded island retreat, Naladhu. A 6 star resort like no other.

‘Naladhu’ means ‘beautiful isle’ and from first sight it is clear to see why. Whether you’re jetting off on your honeymoon, or fancy a truly luxurious break with the family, Naladhu offers an island experience like no other. Naladhu is unique for many reasons but foremost has to be its location. Set on the island of Velighandu Huraa in the South Male Atoll, Naladhu is one of a cluster of three islands owned by the Anantara group.

Opposite the crystal-clear lagoon lies the family-friendly resort Anantara Dhigu, complete with sunset bar, three restaurants and a spa, and the resort Anantara Veli, with three restaurants, an ocean-view bar and gym.

Naladhu is the smallest and most luxurious of them all and whilst at Naladhu guests can enjoy all the amenities of the three islands, the other resorts cannot. Naladhu is unlike many other six star  resorts –  surprisingly it has more of a homely feel than that of a luxury hotel.

Upon arrival we were welcomed by a traditional Maldivian drum and escorted along a pathway of rose petals to the living room – the Island’s dining and recreational area. After a refreshing welcome drink and relaxed check-in we were taken to our residence for the next three days.

There are two room options on Naladhu, Beach House or Ocean House and when we say house, we mean, a house. Each house has a Maldivian name and the entrance is set within their own walled garden.

We were lucky enough to be staying in one of the breathtaking Ocean Houses. Each is perched over the Indian Ocean and with no other island in site (the nearest land is Sri Lanka) you feel completely secluded so much so that even

the most famous of guests could escape without fear of being seen, or worse, papped. The Beach Houses have exactly the same décor and layout, but face the lagoon side and have a private white sandy beach on their door step.

The interior is stunning. With strong influences from Sri Lankan and Maldivian design the eclectic mix of dark wood, ceramics, and bold, colourful rugs and cushions gives each house a homely and lived in feel – as if one has brought back these possessions from their travels.

The houses are the main focus on Naladhu. Each house has its own pool, open air bathroom, steam room, large decking area complete with double swing bed and dining area. There really is no reason to leave your island home. In fact, each house comes with your very own house master to ensure you needn’t have to. Whatever your request your house master is on hand to ensure your stay is as smooth, pleasurable and relaxing as possible.

Should you wish to venture out of your home you can dine and drink in the Living Room. Complete with sofas, thatched roof and heavy mahogany furniture it again feels more lived in than a hotel. With a slightly colonial feel the living room brings an unexpected elegance to the island, somewhat different to the average luxury island resort. The Living Room serves up an array of international dishes all day long,  from breakfast through to dinner with fish,of course, the star attraction on the menu.

With only 19  rooms, Naladhu is by far one of the smallest resorts in the Maldives but fear not, if you crave excitement and variety there is lots to explore on the other islands over the bridge.

Having spent a full day relaxing in our house, on our first evening at Naladhu we ventured over the bridge to the Thai restaurant, Baan Huraa.  Naladhu is in fact owned by a Thai company, Anantara, so our expectations for our Thai supper were high. As expected, it did not disappoint. The restaurant was informal, relaxed and the perfect spot  to spend our first evening overlooking the Indian Ocean.

There are in fact seven other restaurants that Naladhu guests can explore, however we highly recommend the Fuddan Grill which we experienced on our second night. Choose from a variety of fish and meats cooked Maldivian or tandoori style – a simple concept but truly delicious.

Whilst Naladhu itself doesn’t have a spa or water sports centre you can hop on the water taxi across to the neighbouring island. The Anantara spa is elegant and serene and the perfect spot to while away a day overlooking the lagoon. The focus at Antara is not on quantity but quality. So don’t expect an extensive treatment menu, instead you will experience great products and expertise in Thai and Balinese massages and Ayurvedic treatments.

For those with ocean houses who wish to spend an afternoon on the white sandy beach, simply head to your designated private beach cobana, complete with kayak to explore the lagoon. There are also many hammocks dotted along the white sandy shore, encouraging you to lie back and relax all the more.

It may be a little on the quiet side for some but for those who like a slower pace, are looking for total relaxation and unquestionable luxury, then Naladhu is your dream destination.

• Rooms: 19, with a choice of sea-view Ocean Houses or lagoon-facing Beach Houses.
• Rates: Double rooms from £898.57 ($1,455), excluding tax at 16.6 per cent. Please note the hotel charges an additional government tax of $8.00 per person per night on check-out.
• Facilities: Spa, gym, library of books and DVDs, free WiFi throughout. In rooms: flatscreen TV, CD/DVD player, preloaded iPod, minibar (pre-stocked with your requested goodies), espresso machine, T2 tea, L’Occitaine toiletries, private pools.
• Pool: There is a small streamlined pool by the Living Room which overlooks the lagoon.
• Check-out: 12pm, but flexible subject to availability and a charge of 50 per cent of the day rate. Check-in, 2pm.
• Children: Children are welcome, although this is more of a romantic adult resort. Baby cots are available, as is babysitting with hotel staff.