A limpid and deep turquoise lagoon encircles the Baros Maldives. Along the edges sit elegant villas crafted from timber and sandstone, with palm-thatched roofs and palm-lined gardens a glittering sandy step from the beach. There are over-water villas too, some with small private pools on deck, all with steps leading into the balmy blue waters. A leisurely stroke away is the house reef, almost as colourful as the tropical fish that flicker around it. Manta rays glide about, turtles surface and slip under the waves from time to time, and small sand sharks torpedo about.
The island is fragrant with vivid hibiscus and bougainvillea, as bright as the silver sand and the Technicolor sky above. Although it’s relatively small, the villas are both spacious and secluded, so on a sundeck or in a garden, its easy to believe that this is a deserted island, albeit with all mod cons, indoor and outdoor showers, sink into sofas and sun loungers and supremely comfortable beds.
The main infinity pool is as lovely to lounge around as the beach, and seems to extend over it, while the spa features an enchanting water garden. Yoga, yachting, and a dive valet service ensures there’s plenty to fill the long sunny days between serious sunbathing, snorkelling and swimming sessions.
There’s plenty of choice in dining options too – three restaurants and two bars serve up everything from sophisticated menus to simple seafood snacks. The Lighthouse Restaurant is considered to be one of the best in the Maldives, an overwater pavilion. Rays and sharks undulate through the water as diners above enjoy gourmet cuisine and the marine entertainment. As scenic as this is, it’s also possible to dine on your own private deck, or on a traditional sailing dhoni boat, or on the beach, or on an isolated sand bank – the superb service here makes sure that anything possible can be arranged anywhere on this fantasy island.
