Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort, South Male Atoll
The Maldives, Central Islands

Olhuveli is a superb value 4* resort nestled quietly in South Male Atoll. This gives it a feeling of remoteness and peace, while remaining a comfortable speedboat ride away from the international airport at Male.

The resort was probably hardest hit by the tsunami due to its large and south facing house reef. However, the owners used the chance to renovate and the design and facilities are stunningly up to date, making Olhuveli fantastic value for the quality of the resort.

Unusually there is a real range in the quality of accommodation. The over-water villas and especially the Jacuzzi Water Villa's, are up there in standard with the best of them private, peaceful, spacious and lovely. The next level is the deluxe beach bungalow. Again, these are very sizable, luxurious and private, and open out onto the beach. At the lower end are the double storey deluxe rooms, which although much smaller, are comfortable and good value the upper rooms have a lovely view over the beach and the lower rooms open onto the beach itself.

The food options are decent though not extensive. There is a large and attractive buffet served in the main restaurant along with European, Asian and Japanese buffets. There is also an a la carte restaurant and three bars. The food is generally a very good standard and the service is excellent friendly and unobtrusive.

Within easy reach of Olhuveli are some of the best dive sites in the Maldives. Furthermore, the island has an excellent house reef too. There is a great range of sports facilities available, including tennis and badminton, as well as a spa and a very full complement of water-sports.

While a large resort, the atmosphere is friendly and sociable. The dining and communal areas are very well designed with fantastic views from the main restaurant. This is beautifully made with dark woods, glass and thatch to create a cool tropical feel. For those couples wanting privacy, the deluxe and over water categories provide this in abundance.

45 minute speedboat transfer from Male airport.

Superior - This is our first really 'upmarket' category. It might be a beautiful tiny hotel with very limited facilities or a 5* resort hotel with all the trimmings; but any hotel in this category will be a well-run establishment with very comfortable rooms, a strong service ethos and excellent food.

Our rating system explained...

• Beach Volleyball
• Gym
• House Reef
• Kite surfing
• Private plunge pool
• Snooker Table
• Spa
• Tennis Court
• Wakeboarding
• Water-Skiing