Gili Lankanfushi Maldives

Luxury today is seen to be related to the quality of life, but its definition is deeply personal to the individual. Luxury can be defined as time spent with loved ones, a sense of belonging, a moment of absolute privacy, a perfect cup of coffee, a wonderful book, or simply an opportunity to escape from reality.

Ultimately, luxury is the freedom to make your own choice. At Gili Lankanfushi, we offer our guests the freedom to make that choice, providing an opportunity to redefine what luxury means, and ensuring that whatever their definition, we continuously strive to meet and exceed their expectations.

Designed in an authentic style, built using eco-friendly materials and blended seamlessly into the remarkable landscape of a natural environment, our over water villas creates a sophisticated and intimate ambiance where guests are able to feel truly at home.

We aimed to become aware of one’s natural and cultural surroundings, as well as to be responsible in taking care of them. At Gili Lankanfushi, we introduce to our guests the natural beauty of our island and encourage them to live a more responsible lifestyle while moving towards a zero-waste existence.

We not only encourage guests to practice being sustainable during their stay with us, but to also bring home these responsible initiatives to practice and to adopt this way of living in their daily lives, to help make this world a beautiful one to live in.

We have a team of personal guest experience hosts at Gili Lankanfushi known as Mr. Fridays. They’re named after Robinson Crusoe’s loyal assistant and dear friend, and will show you the way around the island while making your stay as memorable as possible.

Day or night and no matter what the request, your trusted host is there to help with everything from unpacking luggage to organising dining experiences and excursions or even setting up a bed under the stars. Parents will be pleased to know that they can also keep little ones entertained.

THE PRIVATE RESERVE
Standing alone in the middle of a sparkling, turquoise lagoon, 500 metres from our main resort, Gili Lankanfushi’s Private Reserve is the quintessence of luxury, privacy and seclusion.

Sprawled across multi-tiered levels, this rustic-chic fort of dreams is where your idea of the ultimate island escape instantly becomes a reality. Step inside the largest overwater villa in the world and explore its master suites and guest bedrooms as well as its collection of open-plan living and dining spaces.

Be amazed by the infinity swimming pool, spacious sundecks, couple’s spa pavilion with a sauna and steam room, air- conditioned gymnasium, cinema, bar and even a water slide that runs from the Private Reserve’s top deck into the sea. A private boat is yours to come and go as you please – most people, however, never find the need to leave.

FAMILY VILLA WITH POOL
Two exclusive family villa with pool facing the Eastern side of the island. Wake up to that spectacular sunrise view at water’s edge each morning. Situated at the end of the jetty, this one of a kind villa features a spacious en suite master bedroom, an en suite guest room, an L-shaped swimming pool, a private rooftop terrace and a family room at the far end of the villa, which offers endless views of the Indian Ocean.

VILLA SUITE WITH POOL
Swim to the edge of the infinity pool with the feeling of a never ending swim into the ocean. Relax in multiple open-air living and dining spaces. A private corner for everyone to have a quiet moment on their own, to practice the art of doing nothing.

KASHIVELI RESTAURANT
Located directly on the beach and open for breakfast and dinner, Kashiveli – which translates as ‘coral sands’ in the local Dhivehi language – embodies locally-sourced, nutritious ingredients and vibrant flavours through a marriage of land and ocean.

Breakfasts celebrate the region’s wide variety of fresh tropical fruits with an ever-changing array of smoothies, juices and fresh fruit plates made to order, as well as traditionally Maldivian offerings such as Mas Huni and international favourites.

Four evenings per week see the beach and overwater bar transformed with a buzzing market experience, with the Asian Street Market, Mediterranean Spice Souk, Passage to India and Maldivian Seafood Grill nights.

The Gili Culinary Journey will be on offer three nights a week, with a rotating menu of signature dishes taking guests on a gastronomic journey through nine cities, from traditional handmade Sardinian pasta and fresh Antalyan salads to vibrant Indonesian Rendang curry and Tamil lamb.

Cold Room at Kashiveli – The newly added cold room features a selection of premium cold cuts, artisan cheeses and homemade chocolates made available during the gourmet breakfast experience.

BY THE SEA RESTAURANT
Engulfed by our tropical jungle and offering sweeping ocean views, this intimate restaurant presents a Japanese fine-dining feast that is an affair to remember. Enjoy exquisite sushi, sashimi and specialties from our seasonal tasting menus and interact with our highly skilled teppanyaki chef as he puts on a show.

By The Sea’s extensive sake list is sure to impress, and if you need any guidance our knowledgeable sommeliers know what to suggest. Be entertained by our skillful Teppanyaki Chef with culinary acrobatics, whilst you enjoy a gourmet dinner freshly prepared just for you.

OVERWATER BAR
Standing on stilts in the lagoon, the Overwater Bar floats in a dreamy landscape and offers breathtaking, uninterrupted sea views. At lunchtime, find salads fresh from our organic garden, Mediterranean dishes, the catch of the day and daily chef’s special.

For a healthier option, consider the light yet nutritional and substantial dish from Hari’s super food menu. Come sunset, it’s where you’ll want to be with a coconut martini in hand, relishing the balmy evening breeze.

Once a week on Wednesdays, a Seafood Grill evening showcases produce straight from local fishermen’s nets. For a dinner experience at the outer deck of the Over Water Bar, indulge in a Seafood Basket for two with a bottle of Champagne under the stars

On Sundays, our Passage through India Tandoor night sees sizzling meats, spicy specialties and homemade chapatis, rotis, pappadums, and the ever so delicious naans being whipped up by our chefs, using the tandoori oven.

On Wednesdays, enjoy fresh local seafood catch of the day as we take you through Fisherman’s Grill. For those craving for grilled meats at dinner, choose from our newly introduced Gili Lava Grill menu with accompaniments and special sauces. Over Water Bar is open from 11:00am to 11:00pm for Snacks and Cocktails.

FINI FONI
Fini Foni in Dhivehi means Cold Sweet, suggests a place where you can have some cold sweet fun. Savour unique homemade flavours of Popsicle and Ice Cream by the poolside and a stone throw from the Tennis Court, an enhancement to the Gili Wine & Dine experience during the day while you bask under the sun for that glowing tan. Mouthwatering snacks and delicious cocktails are also made available for you upon request.

UNDERGROUND WINE CELLAR
A unique underground wine cellar that is home to a wide range of wines from around the world, a cosy space to learn more about wines with our team of knowledgeable sommeliers.

Our cavernous cellar hides at the bottom of a flight of glass stairs and was designed around a huge piece of driftwood that was once swept ashore. It houses more than 500 varieties of wine from numerous international regions.

Venture across the old and new worlds with a tasting session lead by our expert sommelier – who is also a great entertainer. On any evening of the week, be prepared to be sweep off your feet with mouthwatering gourmet dishes along with sommelier’s choice of premium wines hosted by our team of sommeliers.

DINING EXPERIENCE
On each night of the week, embark on a different Gili Wine and Dine experience at unique locations around the island. Sit back and allow our team of chefs to surprise you with mouthwatering dishes from a bespoke menu just for you.

Gili Lankanfushi’s gastronomic vision sees our Executive Chef combining locally sourced seafood and a daily harvest from our expansive Organic Garden with seasonal, specially selected produce to creative unique, European-Maldivian fusion fare. An assortment of settings on the island lend themselves to a collection of food experiences that allow you to dine as your mood directs.

Vegetarians and individuals with special dietary requirements are also in for a treat, since no requirement is impossible as personalisation is key. Allow our culinary team to delight and surprise you with creative dishes that is out of the menus, as it is what they do best.

DINE UNDER THE STARS
For an unconventional dining experience outside the comforts of a restaurant, a selection from an array of locations around the island for the out of the ordinary dinner moment under the stars.

Let our culinary team spoil you with fine-dining dishes designed to be savoured in extraordinary locations beneath a canopy of stars. Customise your own menu in collaboration with our chef, or let us surprise you. Either way, we will turn the unimaginable into the unforgettable.

COOKING CLASS
Learn to make a traditional Maldivian fish curry, or try your hand at tempura and sushi making with one of our specialist chefs. While the basic preparations will have already been done, lessons will be given about the ingredients and preparation methods. Enjoy learning about new cuisines and cultures as you cook under direction. Once finished, your sumptuous meal awaits.

ORGANIC GARDEN
Set in the heart of our island is our treasured organic garden abundant with fruit trees, fresh garden greens and exotic herbs. Taste the freshness of homegrown rocket, beach lettuce, salad, chillies, basil, morning glory, fennel, pomegranates, bananas and more at all of our restaurants.

As no chemical fertilisers or pesticides are used, we are proud to be able to always produce healthy harvests, under the green fingers of our dedicated gardening team. Feel free to pop in and explore this haven for yourself, or set up a tour with our passionate Executive Chef to learn more

MEERA SPA
A sanctuary of scented bliss, our Meera Spa sits in a secluded bay and is sprawled across languid waters. This holistic haven includes six over-water treatment rooms, an Ayurvedic Treatment Champa, steam and sauna rooms and an open-air relaxation area offering breathtaking views. A seaside yoga and meditation champa, where you can salute the sun come dawn or dusk, lies not too far away.

TREATMENTS
Our global treatments and therapies draw on ancient cultures and healing knowledge. They are delivered by highly-skilled therapists, who will help you to connect with yourself and our glorious island landscape while revitalising and balancing your mind, body and soul.

Each session begins with a mineral-rich sea salt foot scrub, letting you slip that much faster into relaxation mode. Our collection of Voya and Meera Spa products are simply sublime as are our in-house Meera concoctions created from organic plants and herbs.

GILI WELLNESS JOURNEY
Relax, Retreat and Rejuvenate are three essentials of Gili Well-Being Journeys at Meera Spa. We understand the stress of a bustling city life and need to care for your inner well-being. Discover holistic and healing treats for the mind, body and soul in a tranquil setting with a focus on purifying and rejuvenating your body for long term benefits.

A combination of several treatments involving stretching, pressure points massage, plus Ayurvedic medicated oils and holistic therapy will help uplift your senses. Begin your wellness journey with us and be on your way to a revitalizing road to recovery of inner peace and balance.

YOGA & MEDITATION
Begin your mornings bright and early with Dev, our yoga master to stretch out those tired muscles, increase flexibility and to have a balanced mind, body and soul. For meditation to find inner peace, embrace the beauty of the natural environment of Gili Lankanfushi and lose yourself in the serenity of a timeless haven. Complimentary morning yoga is available at 8:00 am daily. Private sessions are available upon request and will be chargeable.

DIVING
Delve into the Maldives’ theatrical underwater world with Ocean Paradise Dive Centre – a PADI-certified outlet operating at Gili Lankanfushi. Many renowned dive sites, such as Banana, HP or Rainbow Reef, Okobe Thila, Nassimo Thila, Maagiri and Manta Point are a short boat ride away from our resort.

Multilingual expert instructors run day and night dives and courses for all levels. As the 9th most environmentally responsible dive centre in Asia, the team takes environmental practices seriously – you can even join a science dive and collect data for the likes of SharkWatch and the Manta Trust.

For those who have never dived before, try a Discover Scuba Diving session, which takes just three hours to complete. All scuba diving programs are conducted by PADI professionals adhering to the latest safety standards. A self-declaration medical questionnaire is required before starting any scuba activity.

PADI DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING
The first experience to try diving in a controlled, safe and fun environment which takes approximately 3hrs to complete. This does not result in an official PADI certification.

Starting with a safety briefing and learning the equipment, we go to the lagoon for the first underwater experience which includes some basic skills necessary for diving. Then we take the boat to the Turtle Reef 5 mins from the resort for a boat dive.

SNORKELLING
Be amazed by the richness and variety that exists in the surrounding shimmering waters of our resort. Just standing on the edge of our timber boardwalks, you can easily spot small sharks and schools of brightly coloured fish.

Pop on a snorkelling mask and pair of fins and head to the 15-metre drop-off zone at the edge of our house reef. Exploring its dazzling coral walls is like swimming in an aquarium and there is a good chance you will see turtles and rays.

Our resident marine biologists run a variety of day and night exploratory guided trips. In the right season, they can take you to see giant manta rays up close and personal.

WATERSPORTS
Our blue lagoon is the perfect place for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing and paddle-boarding on complimentary basis. We provide lessons for beginners and for those with experience, we will leave you to explore the blue yonder at leisure. If power and speed is what you are after, we offer wakeboarding, waterskiing, jet skiing, jet blading, fun tubing and private speed boat trips too.

WINDSURFING LESSONS
A short explanation of wind, board and sail techniques, before heading to the shallow lagoon for some practical fun. One hour is usually enough for beginners to grasp the fundamentals of windsurfing up and down the beach.

SURFING WITH TROPICSURF
Gili Lankanfushi’s setting in the North Malé atoll is ideally located for unbeatable surfing. Some of the best breaks in the country lie on our doorstep, with three just a five-minute boat ride away and several more are within 20 minutes.

Tropical water temperatures, consistent swell and low crowds add to the appeal. We have teamed up with luxury surfing company Tropicsurf and their experienced instructors offer an array of activities available for beginners learning in our lagoon, intermediate surfers and expert wave warriors looking for a challenge.

All lessons and surf trips are bespoke and tailored to your needs, whether it is a private or group session.

TENNIS WITH A PRO
Stay active and fit even on a relaxing holiday at this timeless haven where time stands still. Join our tennis coach here at Gili Lankanfushi, for a bespoke tennis experience created for tennis players of all levels.

In partnership with Recreational Tennis Coaching (RTC), we offer a unique recreational tennis program for adults and kids. A fun and enriching way to enjoy the game of tennis.

EXCURSIONS
We offer an extensive range of guided excursions for those looking to explore what lies beyond our resort. Meander through the narrow streets of the capital city, Malé, and discover its markets, mosques and minarets.

Or, take a trip to Huraa, a tiny local island that lies 20 minutes north of Gili Lankanfushi, to meet with some of its inhabitants and see their exquisite handcrafted products.

You can also try your hand (and luck) at local-style fishing or embark on a more serious deep sea fishing adventure. Island hopping trips include the chance to stop and snorkel as well. Delight in the excitement of flying over some of the Maldives’ spectacular atolls in a seaplane with our scenic Flight Experience.

As you gaze down upon beautiful little islands with their chalk-white sandbars and crystal clear lagoons, you will see how they stand out in stark contrast against the Indian Ocean’ deeper, azure blue seas.

SUNSET DOLPHIN CRUISE
After an entertaining and informative briefing, we invite guests to enjoy a relaxing cruise on our comfortable dhoni to see the hundreds of resident Spinner Dolphins as they make their way out of the atoll to fish at night. The entire trip takes 2hrs and is complimented with canapés and champagne, with non-alcoholic drinks available.

SUNSET FISHING TRIP
Our guides will show the guests the traditional Maldivian bottom line fishing techniques targeting edible species of grouper and snapper. The chefs can prepare the fish to eat that night or for the next day’s lunch, according to the guests’ preferences.

SUNRISE FISHING TRIP
A different kind of fishing experience where we use lures to attract pelagic fishes such as tuna and trevally. A lure is used on each side of the dhoni as it moves in the channel attracting fast swimming hunters. The catch can also be prepared by our chefs to the guests’ preferences.

BIG GAME FISHING
Using the game fishing boat Sara Coco, we move in to deeper waters to target the larger pelagic including tuna and billfish. The experienced captain and crew can help the guests to bring in the larger fighting fish. We recommend a catch and release program for this kind of fishing to preserve the fish stock.

GILI GOES VOYAGING
Sail the Indian Ocean on our luxury 14-metre Riviera yacht. Climb on board for a whale shark watching trip, a fishing excursion, or sunset dolphin cruise.

Enjoy exclusive transfers to the airport, a private desert island picnic or explore atolls further away. With an en-suite master cabin, two smaller berths and full catering service on board, there’s no finer way to travel.

FACILITIES
When you are surrounded by the gifts of nature the possibilities are endless. A spa session feels sensational with the sound of waves and a view of what is beneath. Diving and snorkelling yield amazing stories full of marine creatures.

Even a leisure afternoon enjoying the sea breeze seems all the more invigorating. Shopping options are also available to find that perfect memento for lasting memories of a lifetime.

WEDDINGS
Surrounded by the sparkling turquoise lagoon waters of Gili Lankanfushi, where couples can tie the knot and receive a special blessing from a local Maldivian cleric.

From a wedding at our beautiful lagoon champa (wedding pavilion), to having champagne at sunset on a traditional dhoni curise or a star-lit private dinner on One Palm Island, we invite you to a timeless haven for a celebration of a lifetime.Gili Lankanfushi, the ultimate island destination at which to pledge or renew your vows.

Seclusion, exceptionality, and barefoot luxury blend with exquisite natural settings to ensure a wonderful day that is unforgettable for you and the love of your life.

From our unique wedding chapel standing amid cerulean waters, to our magnificent Private Reserve, an array of options from which to celebrate your most special day is available – all you need to do is choose. Leave everything to us, as your every wish will be anticipated and every expectation shall be surpassed.

PROPOSALS
Be inspired by the different locations around the island along with those romantic ideas that you can only dream of. Your Mr. Friday will be there to assist your every request.

If it is a magical setting you are after when asking the ‘big question’, let our island sanctuary be your stage and we’ll create the perfect scene. Perhaps you have imagined an in-villa private set-up with scattered rose petals and lanterns?

Or a dinner on the beach surrounded by the lights of 1,000 twinkling candles and a warm, sultry breeze? Whatever you can conjure, we will help you create, a perfect moment that will never forget.

HONEYMOONS
From a celebration of new love to renewal of vows, this sweet escape offers romantic experiences for you to create Gili Magic Moments that would last a lifetime.

Create intimate moments for memories that last a lifetime in an escape where love blossoms after saying your “I-do’s”, or rekindle the romance and celebrate the wonder years of marriage and renewing your vows to each other.

Our lucent lagoon waters, palm-fringed beaches, secluded villas and romantic experiences await. For a bespoke romantic experience, provide us with your wish list and allow your Mr. Friday to create unforgettable Gili Magic Moments just for you.

ROMANTIC EXPERIENCES
Enhance your Gili Moments with your special someone during your stay, and reconnect with one another through these romantic experiences just for two in a sanctuary hidden from the world where time stands still.

SUNSET DHONI CRUISE
Set sail toward the exquisite sunset in a wooden dhoni for two. Let yourselves just ‘be’ in the silence that awaits when you drift from the shore. Toast to your future over flutes of champagne, looking forward to the time you will return to Gili Lankanfushi once again.

SLEEP UNDER THE STARS
Lying hand in hand on a bountiful bed, spot constellations and shooting stars, before falling asleep. From the privacy of your rooftop terrace, it is just the two of you, lying under the moon and the glittering night sky.

GILI VESHI – MARINE BIOLOGY SHACK
Gili Veshi, which translates as Gili Environment in the local Dhivehi language, is the island’s primary marine research facility and the central hub for all sustainability and conservation issues, as well as offering a host of new guest experiences.

THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT
Maldives is all about the ocean; in fact the archipelago was formed by corals, and the local people were fed by the productive marine system for millennia. The marine environment together with tourism brought profit to the Maldives.

Here at Gili Lankanfushi we do understand that, and we pay a lot of attention to this stunning environment. Since January 2012 we have employed a resident marine biologist on the island, and since 2014, an Assistant Marine Biologist joined the team to expand our reach.

In 2018, we now employ an intern and train them in all things marine and have a helping hand for our growing project base! We manage Gili’s coral reef, spread environmental awareness, improve our guest experiences, link the resort with national environmental programmes and advise management on any ecological issues.

THE CORAL LINES PROJECT
Coral reefs are some of the most biodiverse and yet most threatened ecosystems in the world… The best way to protect coral reefs globally is to remove the current threats; support conservation, take care when snorkeling & diving, and most importantly, reduce your carbon footprint in your daily life.

For some reefs that have already been damaged, we can assist coral reef recovery on a small scale. At Gili Lankanfushi resort in the Maldives, we are rehabilitating the coral reef by nursing coral on ropes (lines) (Levy et al., 2010) and later transplanting them onto degraded reef areas (Lindahl, 2003).

Every rope is initially planted with 50 small, living coral fragments. We nurse the corals in the lagoon for one year and later transplant the ropes to One Palm Island reef if conditions are suitable. Over time we expect the corals get stronger, grow bigger and improve the health of the One Palm Island Reef.

Our project is a research study on the subject of coral reef rehabilitation science, and 75% of the proceeds from every Coral Line donated goes to our Gili SEAS (Social & Environmental Awareness and Sustainability) fund, allowing our property to do more for the locals and the environment.

We are also able to take donations from guests who are staying at Gili Lankanfushi. Additionally, we have an online donation system so that anyone will be able to donate a coral line from any part of the world!

SUSTAINABILITY AT GILI LANKANFUSHI
All our buildings are constructed using sustainably-sourced plantation teak, palm wood, bamboo and palm fronds (much of which was harvested during the island rehabilitation process) in addition to recycled telegraph poles.

All rooms provide organic toiletries in refillable earthenware containers, to minimise plastics use and wastage. The island’s dedicated desalinisation plant provides bottled still and sparkling water for all guests. Energy efficiency is top of mind too, and while we have drastically decreased our fuel consumption, we are always looking to save more.