Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives

Located a mere 20 minutes from Malé on the fantasy island of Emboodhu Finolhu, this idyllic sanctuary is part of the prestigious Taj Group of Hotels. Taking full advantage of its fabulous setting in one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives, the vast majority of the resort sits on stilts over crystal clear waters, providing panoramic seascapes wherever you cast your eyes.

Fresh from a complete makeover, this award-winning resort - now relaunched – offers 62 elegant Maldivian-style villas whose palm-thatch, hand-woven rattan, raw silks and polished wood ooze an ‘island chic’ ambience. The extensive use of neutral colours and natural light draws the surrounding natural beauty into every room – just lie back and listen to the sound of distant waves!

The four Deluxe Beach Villas sit just metres from the beautiful lagoon – each offering an oversized plunge pool, an outdoor shower within a walled garden and a private verandah with glorious lagoon views. The two sprawling split-level Beach Villa Suites boast all of the above features with the additional space of a living area, two bedrooms (one of which is on the mezzanine level with an attached private balcony) and a private spa treatment room.

The Lagoon Villas are all strikingly perched on stilts over the lagoon. Each has a private sundeck with stairs and ladders leading directly into the lagoon. The Deluxe Lagoon Villas with plunge pools are located at the far end of the island on a wooden jetty ensuring complete privacy. The spectacular re-designed Rehendi Presidential Suite is a palatial two bedroom suite built overwater offering the ultimate in luxury –including a glassed bathroom with infinite views of the ocean, a 60 metre freshwater lap pool and two 'salas' for relaxing and dining.

The dining experience is widely acclaimed as offering one of the finest culinary experiences in the Maldives, with eclectic cuisine prepared by a team of international chefs from all corners of the globe. Sip sunset cocktails at the Equator Bar, sample fresh seafood and Pan Asian cuisine at the informal ‘24 Degrees’ all-day dining restaurant or savour the exquisite menu at ‘The Deep End’, where fresh Mediterranean cuisine is complemented by a choice of fine wines.

Secluded at the far end of the island, the superb Taj Spa (an authentically Indian Spa sanctuary) offers a plethora of relaxing signature treatments and Ayurveda therapies inspired by centuries-old Indian traditions. The Spa also incorporates a Yoga and Meditation Pavilion as well as two luxurious 'couples only' Overwater Spa Suites.

The resort has a PADI Dive and Watersports Centre (water skiing, wind surfing, sea kayaking and catamaran sailing are all available) –otherwise, lazy days can be spent relaxing by the infinity-edge swimming pool. Visits to a traditional Maldivian fishing village, sunset cruises and fishing trips can also easily be arranged.

PRICES Prices per person for 7 nights in a Lagoon Villa range from £899 in low season (£122 per person per night) to £1599 in high season (£222 per person per night) including breakfast and the return speedboat transfer. Flights from the UK from £493 (including £140 tax) with Qatar Air