Bohemian luxury hideaway The Nautilus Maldives has been unveiled as the only Maldivian member of Relais & Châteaux, one of the world’s most prestigious hotel and restaurant associations and a globally recognised signifier of exceptional quality.

Coming hot on the heels of its official opening in Spring 2019, The Nautilus’ inclusion as one of only 13 new Relais & Chateaux members this year further burnishes its already glowing credentials as one of the Indian Ocean’s most immaculate luxury private island experiences.

Established in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is an international association of 580 unique hotels and restaurants owned and operated by independent entrepreneurs — often families — who are passionate about their craft and deeply committed to forging warm, lasting relationships with their guests.

Established on five continents, Relais & Châteaux invites people across the globe to savour delicious journeys, to discover the inimitable art de vivre engrained in each local culture and to share an incomparable, unforgettable experience.

“We are very happy to count The Nautilus as a member of our family. This is a perfect example of what Relais & Châteaux is: properties anchored in their region, ambassadors of their heritage, but also passionate about their craft. The hotel is perfectly located and will offer a delicious Maldivian immersion for our guests,” Philippe Gombert, President of Relais & Châteaux, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

In his 1870 classic Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, Jules Verne described his legendary Nautilus as a “masterpiece containing masterpieces”; launched in Spring 2019, The Nautilus Maldives is quickly earning a similar reputation.

Located in the UNESCO biosphere reserve of Baa atoll, The Nautilus is a luxury bohemian hideaway which celebrates freedom and individuality, where guests are encouraged to be themselves and shape their own personal journey.

With a total of only 26 keys, The Nautilus, which can also be taken exclusively as a private island, offers accommodation perfect for groups or families, sleeping anywhere from four up to 12 guests. Each and every House has its own large private pool, ranging in size from 40 to 90 square metres.

Throughout the resort, beautiful one–off collectibles and objets d’art make it feel like the private home of a friend with immaculate taste.

Uniquely for The Maldives, a dedicated private butler is allocated to each House, at every room category.

Dining is “unscripted” and is about liberating the palate. There is nothing so pedestrian as dress codes, opening and closing times or tray charges; menus at the overwater fine dining restaurant Zeytoun, beachside grill Ocaso, pool bar Naiboli and relaxed all-day eatery Thyme are for inspiration only.

A beautiful overwater spa (using products by Maison Caulières and Omorovicza), a liveried fleet of yachts and a seaplane, beautiful ‘boho-luxe’ interiors and a breathtaking house reef complete a quintessential Maldives experience at the highest level, without need for gimmicks.