The house reef

The island’s reef is one of the Maldives’ most magnificent, allowing you to snorkel along the edge of a drop-off just metres from the white-sand beach. The resort also has an SSI dive centre offering try-dives and certification in scuba diving and free-diving. These complement other unforgettable expeditions and adventures on offer here, including dolphin spotting tours, sailings in a traditional wooden dhoni, and visits to local fishing villages.

The location

Vilu Reef is one of the more remote places in the Maldives, located in the South Nilandhe Atoll, a gorgeously scenic 35-minute seaplane ride from the main airport. Indeed, your holiday begins as soon as you arrive at Malé International Airport, where you will await your transfer in Sun Siyam’s sleek air-conditioned lounge, where you can enjoy complimentary drinks, snacks, showers, and even taster massages.

The stunning overwater villas

It’s hard to pick from among Vilu Reef’s luxurious but laidback accommodation decorated in zingy island hues, but we do have a soft spot for the Sunset Reef over-water villas with their gorgeous twilight views. We also love the Grand Water Villas with their private sun decks, infinity plunge pool, suspended hammocks, and steps down into the lagoon. But the beach villas are no less delightful, with outdoor bathrooms and some with private cabanas. Our favourites also have an outdoor Jacuzzi or a private pool for that added touch of indulgence.

The spa with its couple’s sessions

All of Sun Siyam’s spas are out of this world, and this one is no different. It combines Eastern traditions with contemporary Western practices in everything from aromatherapy massages to traditional Ayurvedic rituals, as well as flower baths and scrubs. There’s also a hydrotherapy area in which to steam and soak.

The destination and bespoke dining options

Five restaurants and two bars at Vilu Reef showcase organic homegrown produce and the freshest daily catch with dishes from a range of cuisines including Maldivian, Indian, Thai, and Italian, accompanied by delicious sommelier-picked vintages from the extensive wine cellar. But it doesn’t end there – you can dine all over the resort, with options including a light lunch on the lagoon, a sunset beach barbecue, a romantic dinner on your terrace, or even a picnic on a secret island. Afterwards, you can relax with a cocktail as you enjoy some cinema under the stars.

The ethos

The Sun Siyam Group stands out in the region for being 100% locally owned and run, and deeply rooted in its communities – the vision of its founder Ahmed Siyam Mohamed. The group also stands out for being eco-minded, with Travelife/Global Sustainable Tourism Council certification recognising its many initiatives. Vilu Reef is the Grande Dame of the Sun Siyam resorts, having been the first to open in 1998, and is excellent value for money for a five-star property.