Why Maldivian eco-resort Gili Lankanfushi is a surfer’s paradise this summer holidays
The waves that grace the sandy white shores of the Maldives' Northern Atolls which surround Gili Lankanfushi are arguably some of the world's purest which is why it is no surprise that this once well-kept secret is now an integral part of the international surf scene and home to countless professional contests. To compliment the tropical temperatures, optimum swell and low crowds experienced throughout the summer season, Gili Lankanfushi will introduce new surfing packages for families, first-timers and first-class surfers seeking a new surfing holiday destination to discover.
image credit Stevie Mann
Just Swell: The family-friendly surfer's paradise
With a variety of surfing spots nearby, Gili Lankanfushi is the ideal location for surfers of all abilities and ages to learn or hone their surfing skills. Ideal for families who fancy riding the waves together, guests are accompanied and guided by an experienced instructor from Gili Lankanfushi's luxury surfing partner, Tropicsurf, who will assess the aptitudes of each surfer and tailor the experience accordingly. From beginners learning in the lagoon to expert wave warriors looking for a more substantial challenge. Surfing With Kids includes 3-days of lessons focused around family fun and learning how to surf the waves together; in a Lagoon Lesson teenagers can learn the basics of surfing in the calm lagoon alongside their instructor as a prelude to seeking some more challenging waves in future; the Dream Programme consists of 3 hours of instructor-led tuition where guests can experience the thrill of riding their first proper ocean wave; and Perfect Wave Sessions are designed to maximise wave count and are ideal for avid surfers seeking to catch break after break.
Stretch, Surf and Spa: Find balance for the mind, body & soul
The new Surf & Spa package has been carefully curated for those seeking to strike the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. To begin, guests will prepare their muscles for a day riding the waves with sunrise Hatha yoga at the Beach Pavilion. This grounding and balancing practice combines breathwork with balance of posture to bring greater awareness to the mind and promote flexibility and body strength. After a full morning balancing on their boards, guests are invited to round off an idyllic day amongst the waves with an ultra-pampering treatment of choice. Reinvigorate the mind and body whilst stirring the soul in the resort's blissful Meera Spa which sits in a secluded bay and is comprises of six over-water treatment rooms, an Ayurvedic Treatment Champa, steam and sauna rooms and an open-air relaxation area. Recommended to rejuvenate aching bodies is the Deep Muscle Fusion, a deep healing therapy which uses the strongest possible massage pressure combining several techniques including herbal oils and compresses to relieve deep inner muscle stress and aid muscle realignment. A ‘must’ for the body-boarding beginners and thrill-seeking surfers alike.
Ride the waves, Lay beneath the stars: Romantic Surf Experiences
For couples wanting to add a hint of romance to their summer surf adventure and create memories to last a lifetime, Gili Lankanfushi has introduced a couples’ surf retreat. Taking place over two days, guests will enjoy daily surf lessons followed by an indulgent couple’s journey at the Meera Spa and a truly unforgettable dinner beneath the stars. The couple’s sessions at the Meera Spa are centred around finding peace, relaxation and tranquillity through a selection of holistic treatments combined with an intimate Meera Bath therapy. The Wonders of Gili journey is a candlelit retreat which uses a premium blend of essential oils to relax and revive the skin and soul. During this ocean inspired experience couples will be treated to a Seaweed Body Buff & Detox Seaweed Mud Wrap, a gentle scalp massage and a Meera Signature full body massage. Completing the journey is a candlelit desert rose Aroma Bath for two accompanied by a bottle of Champagne, chocolates and fresh fruit overlooking the lagoon. Tying together a truly unforgettable day, couples can choose from an array of island locations to dine beneath a canopy of stars. From the 360 Table in Gili's own Organic Garden, to an intimate jetty setting or even a secluded private island all to themselves, couples will be utterly spoilt by the fine-dining creations of Gili Lankanfushi's culinary team.
