The Maldives has a new ultra-private resort concept called Somewhere Island, offering seven residences with suspended sky infinity pools. Jenny Southan reports

".Here is more than a destination. It's an invitation to feel fully alive," reads the website for this new two-phase elite resort opening in the Maldives. It will comprise two islands – Somewhere and Nowhere. (The latter will have just two residences and will only be for buy-outs.)

.Here Baa Atoll Maldives welcomed its first guests to Somewhere Island on December 15, 2025, marking the first phase of a two-island project in the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll. With only nine residences planned across two natural islands, the resort is positioning itself at the extreme end of low-density hospitality, where privacy is the main product rather than scale.

Somewhere Island has just seven large private residences designed to blend beach and overwater living into one continuous space. Each residence faces the ocean and is designed for families or groups travelling together. Rates start from £13,408 per night for a three-bedroom villa and £16,097 for a four-bedroom villa, including breakfast.

The design of Somewhere Island focuses on openness and uninterrupted views rather than ornate detail. Each residence has large indoor and outdoor living areas, as well as a private infinity pool, some stretching up to 47 metres in length.

The layout is intended to allow guests to move easily between land and sea while remaining within their own space. Interiors were created by British design studio Muza Lab, with architecture by Kulör Group, using natural materials chosen to sit quietly within the landscape.

Service at the resort is highly personalised. Each group is assigned a dedicated Roohu, or butler, who organises meals, excursions and wellness treatments based entirely on guest preferences. Dining is flexible and can take place in residences, on the beach or under the stars. Guests staying on Somewhere Island can also access selected facilities at the neighbouring Finolhu resort, providing optional social energy without compromising privacy.

Food is overseen by executive chef Georgios Vasilopoulos, who has spent close to 20 years working in international hotels including Badrutt’s Palace and Raffles Dubai. At .Here, his role is to shape the culinary identity across both islands. The main restaurant and bar on Somewhere Island, called Safar, serves dishes that combine international techniques with ingredients from the Indian Ocean region. Private tasting menus and bespoke dining experiences are also offered, with menus adjusted to guest preferences.

The second phase of the project, Nowhere Island, is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2026. This smaller island will be available exclusively on a full buy-out basis, with rates starting from £43,832 per night.

It will feature just two residences, including a five-bedroom presidential residence, alongside a wellness and fitness centre and additional water sports facilities. This pricing reinforces the resort’s focus on complete seclusion for a single party rather than individual bookings. (Note that a minimum three-night stay is applicable and a seven-night minimum stay during festive period.)

Owners Gregor and Anouchka Gerlach describe the project as a personal vision built around intimacy rather than spectacle. The intention is to create an environment where guests spend time together without the distractions that often come with larger resorts.

“.Here embodies a refined vision of exclusivity in the Maldives,” says Gregor. “By seamlessly integrating bespoke hospitality with thoughtful design, we have created a sanctuary that invites discerning travellers to engage deeply with the natural beauty and tranquillity that define this extraordinary destination.”

“.Here started as a very personal idea - something imaginative and deeply intimate,” says Anouchka. “Seeing Somewhere Island open and welcome its first guests is incredibly special. It’s about creating a genuine connection with the surroundings, with yourself, and with the moment.”

General manager Steven Phillips says: “.Here is not about scale or spectacle; it is about intimacy, intention and emotional connection. With the opening of Somewhere Island, guests can finally experience a place where every detail is personal and every moment feels entirely their own.”

The resort sits within the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve, an area recognised by UNESCO for its marine life and coral reefs. Guests reach the island by a 30-minute seaplane flight from Velana International airport in Malé. The journey itself is part of the experience, offering aerial views of lagoons and reefs before landing near the island.