There’s something special about places that take a little extra effort to reach, where the journey itself invites you to slow down. With my partner Laura and our baby Gigi, we let go of the rush and slipped into island time, ending up exactly where we needed to be: Six Senses Laamu.
Savoring the Stillness
This wasn’t our first visit to the Maldives. We’ve been lucky enough to explore this far-flung paradise on six separate occasions. But it was our first time in the Laamu Atoll, a secluded, palm-draped stretch of the archipelago where Six Senses Laamu stands alone. Its remoteness is part of the magic. After a scenic seaplane journey and a seamless speedboat transfer, stepping ashore felt like slipping out of the world entirely. We had arrived, and everything else had gently faded into the distance.
Six Senses Laamu can only be described in one word: stunning. Calm, turquoise waters stretch in every direction, soft paths weave through lush jungle and a profound quiet immediately shifts your state of mind. With more and more manmade islands popping up across the Maldives, what stood out immediately upon arrival was the powdery softness of the natural sand—a rare and beautiful luxury. Cool beneath your feet, impossibly white and utterly unspoiled.
Overwater Ease, Underwater Encounters
We stayed in one of the overwater villas, which felt both incredibly private and deeply connected to the surrounding nature. With direct access to the sea, it was easy to dive in for a swim, snorkel around the lagoon or simply sway in the overwater hammock netting. Most afternoons were spent stretched out on the sun-drenched deck, wine in hand, watching the light dance across the water. And the private infinity pool? Pure serenity—the perfect spot to watch turtles glide by almost daily, feasting on seagrass. Indoors, the sunken glass bathtub was a real standout feature, offering uninterrupted ocean views; soaking there as the sun set felt like floating between sky and sea. And if baths aren’t your thing, the open-air rain shower offers its own kind of magic.
The house reef just off the beach was equally unforgettable, bursting with vibrant marine life. We were fortunate to encounter parrotfish, clownfish, napoleon wrasse and even graceful reef sharks and an eagle ray. Best of all, the reef was so close and so easy to access that we could make our way into the water and start snorkeling mere seconds after leaving the shore.
Living in the Moment
The whole vibe at Six Senses is barefoot and relaxed, yet incredibly thoughtful. Everything—from the design of the spaces to the fresh, flavorful food to the warm, knowledgeable staff—feels intentional. We spent our days exploring the island, on bikes complete with personalized plates with our initials, snorkeling, reading and letting the hours stretch out unhurriedly. One evening, we had a lobster dinner right on the beach, toes in the sand, waves gently rolling in. It was simple, low-key and all kinds of perfect.
We both visited the spa during our stay for Balinese massages, and the experience was a highlight. The treatment rooms are tucked into the trees, overlooking the Indian Ocean, and the sounds of the waves mixed with the scent of lemongrass created the most calming atmosphere. It was one of those moments where you feel completely present and at ease, where time seems to slow down just enough.
A Stay That Treads Lightly
What makes Six Senses Laamu truly stand out is how deeply it is rooted in sustainability. It’s not a marketing line—it’s really woven into everything. From the resort’s Earth Lab and marine biology center to its plastic-free operations and coral restoration initiatives, there’s a genuine sense of care and commitment to the environment.
We left feeling lighter and more grounded, grateful for a few quiet days spent in step with nature. It was one of those rare trips that gently reminds you what matters most: the ones by your side as you see the world.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nicolas Herbert is a Belgian creative who captures the beauty of travel, style and all things classic through his shared Instagram with his partner Laura, @laurandnicolas. Together, they are the creators behind The Hotels Edit, a dreamy visual diary of the world’s most enchanting stays, and founders of The Herbert Agency, where they craft cinematic stories for luxury hotels.
