Olhuveli Beach and Spa Resort, The Maldives

MC's own Lisa Potter explores the beautiful Maldives

In the heart of the Indian Ocean, scattered across 1,192 silk-sanded beaches with azure waters that swell over coral reefs, lay the breathtaking Maldives.

Few things evoke the feeling of an exotic holiday more swiftly than slipping sandy toes into turquoise waters or sipping a cocktail at the edge of an infinity pool. Located in the beautiful South Male Atoll, the four star resort of Olhuveli offers guests that tranquil Indian Ocean escape.

Unfurling along the postcard perfect coastline, the resort comprises of 164 stylish villas that fuse together contemporary chic and open-air-living. Perched on stilts above the idyllic lagoon, the Jacuzzi Water Villas are seasoned to taste with an extra pinch of luxury and boast spacious indoor areas, a private sundeck with an open air bathtub and timber steps that lead down to the calm turquoise waters - perfect for enjoying the year round tropical climate under the sun or a star lit sky.

And just in case you do venture out of your secluded hideaway, the resort itself leaves you needing for nothing thanks to its selection of restaurants, two infinity swimming pools, a tennis court, fitness suite and an excellent watersports centre. Other ventures available include dolphin safaris and sunset fishing or, a favourite of mine, following dinner on a private beach with a midnight walk along the jetty to watch manta rays swimming below. Simply mesmerising.

The extensive range of aqua activities available at Olhuveli really does make it a water lover’s paradise. It has a five-star PADI dive centre so you can explore the Maldives world renowned undersea landscape or, if like me, you’re more of a sun-soaking, toe-dipping, beach-based type of girl then there are the options of wake boarding, stand-up paddle-boarding, windsurfing, kite-surfing and kayaking around the sheltered island. In between topping up the tan, naturally.

The spa isn’t to be sniffed at either. With its ancient Ayurvedic practices, hydrotherapy pools, steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi, extensive massage menu, hair and beauty salon and peaceful relaxation areas, the beautifully designed Sun Spa is a must for those in search of serenity. And, quite frankly, who isn’t?

With its swaying palms and piercing blue waters fringing sugar-white sands, the Maldives will better your highest fantasy-island expectations. And then some. Is it time to go back yet?

Thomson offers seven night holidays to the Maldives, staying at the 4-star deluxe Olhuveli Beach and Spa Resort, on an all-inclusive basis, from £1699 per person (saving £141 per person). Price is based on two adults sharing, and includes flights departing from London Gatwick airport, on 16 September 2012. For more information or to book this holiday, please visit your local Thomson travel shop, click here or call 0871 230 2555.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT: WWW.VISITMALDIVES.COM 10 BEST EXOTIC BREAKS

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