Cheval Blanc Randheli Hotel & Resort, Maldives

In 2006 the world’s most famous purveyor of luxury goods, LVMH, branched into boutique hotels with the launch of Cheval Blanc, borrowing the name from one of their prestigious Bordeaux wineries. Their aim is to create a collection of exclusive ‘Maisons’ in the very best locations, dedicated to uncompromising finery, and so including the Maldives in the catalogue was inevitable.

Randheli, like its Cheval Blanc stablemates, is designed to appeal to the well-heeled, brand-conscious, international jet-set. This means lavish climate-controlled opulence, of the designer-chic French variety, impeccable service, fine dining, and of course a wine list with wallop, not to mention a sumptuous 9-seater CB seaplane. It’s definitely not ‘traditional Maldives’, and the styling is likely to polarise opinion a little, but we’re pleased to say that it doesn’t tip over into starchy stuffiness – more relaxed Riviera - and all your whims can be swiftly arranged by a private butler service that borders on the telepathic.

The villas (or ‘Maisons’) are vast, beautifully appointed, feature a private 12.5m pool, and incorporate a separate dining pavilion in the garden (breakfast or dinner can be taken in villa from the ‘Carte Blanche’ menu with no tray charge). Free laundry on arrival, and complimentary soft drinks & snacks from the minibar are nice touches.

Around the resort the exquisite attention to detail continues, with a wealth of original paintings & sculptures. For those with retail therapy withdrawal, or just an urge to spend the inheritance, unique artwork can also be found in the ‘Concept Boutique’, alongside a cornucopia of designer products, including some branded lines exclusive to Randelhi. As well as the obligatory diving, water sports and fitness activities, there’s a wellness spa on a separate island, perfect for a remote chill-out while the next-in-lines are entertained in the separate kids’ & teens’ clubs.

Dining options are impressive. Le Diptyque is an excellent open kitchen serving both Japanese and South-East Asian cuisine with flair, the Deelani offers alfresco over-water seafood, while Le Blanc is a round-the-clock brasserie. The signature restaurant ‘Le 1947’, named after possibly the most famous wine vintage of the 20th Century, will please and possibly delight guests used to Michelin star quality.

You’d be forgiven for assuming that all this extravagance might be a tad on the pricey side, but it’s all relative. Let’s say a night is probably more expensive than a Louis Vuitton hand bag, but less than a bottle of ’47 Chateau Cheval Blanc. And after all, you can’t take it with you.