Six Senses Laamu
The only resort in Laamu Atoll, with three marine research groups working from it.
Laamu Atoll lies in the southern Maldives, reached by domestic flight and boat, and holds one resort — Six Senses Laamu — across its whole extent. That is the property's central fact: an entire atoll with a single hotel in it, which almost nowhere else in the country can claim. The reefs and the surf break at Ying Yang are correspondingly lightly used.
Around ninety-seven overwater and beach villas make up the property, built almost entirely in timber and thatch. Three separate marine research organisations work from the island — on manta rays, turtles and coral — under the Maldives Underwater Initiative, which is an unusual concentration of science on one resort and produces published work rather than guest activities.
One resort in a whole atoll. The measure of remoteness that matters in the Maldives, and Laamu is among the very few that can state it.
Three research groups on one island. The Maldives Underwater Initiative is the largest resort-based marine science operation in the country.
Who it is not for
Laamu is wrong for guests on a short trip, since the southern transfer is long. It is wrong for travellers wanting polished modern interiors, as the property is timber and deliberately rough-edged. And it is wrong for those indifferent to the marine programme, which shapes the property. And it is wrong for guests who want a short transfer from Malé. Those wanting polish in the Maldives should look at Cheval Blanc Randheli or JOALI.
Sources
- sixsenses.com — around ninety-seven villas, Laamu Atoll, Maldives Underwater Initiative
- Villa count and research partnerships unverified. Confirm before publication.
Booking
Private Island Resorts arranges each stay on request, quoting the rates available for the island and dates. No benefit should be assumed unless it is confirmed in writing for the individual reservation.
Request a proposal