Varu by Atmosphere

Surrounded by lofty palms and fragrant frangipani, Varu's main areas including a bar and reception area in traditional Maldivian-style buildings. The flagship restaurant, Lime & Chilli, serves an impressive breakfast spread, while elsewhere you'll find steaks, overwater Mediterranean-style seafood and traditional Maldivian fare. Sunset cocktails are also a daily ritual – try the Maldivian Twist at Bay Rouge. The overwater Elena Spa is also beautiful space for a treatment. The six rooms all have glass peepholes to watch the fish from your massage table, and there's a saltwater infinity pool, too.

Varu has 108 villas in total, including 69 over-the-water and 39 right on the beach. The former are the most spacious with sprawling decks and steps leading straight into the sea. They style is relaxed Maldivian and all have dreamy ocean panoramas through floor-to-ceiling glass doors and huge bathrooms with standalone tubs and outdoor showers. Many also have a private pool. The Majilis Residence and Water Suite are the largest of all and include a private butler and on-demand buggy service.

Top-notch snorkelling can be enjoyed right off the beach – spot blacktip sharks and sea turtles – or make use of the resort's complimentary boat rides to a nearby reef. There is also a vast selection of watersports (motorised are at an extra cost) and a daily roster of activities from towel art to cooking lessons, yoga to beach volleyball. The on-site dive centre also offers scuba excursion, while most stays include dolphin-watching, sunset fishing and stargazing cruises.