The perfect hideaway in the Maldives: Vakkaru Maldives

Azure sea, the lapping of the ocean and white beaches. The Maldives are known as the holiday destination of dreams. The dream now gets a new nuance with the luxury resort Vakkaru Maldives.

A 30-minute seaplane flight from Velana International Airport brings you to the secluded reef island, shaded by coconut trees. Blessed with powder-soft white sand beaches, there are 113 beautifully appointed over-water and beach villas here, elegantly designed and visually integrated into the surroundings.

Located in Baa Atoll, the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Vakkaru Maldives was voted "Leading Resort" in the Indian Ocean at the World Travel Awards. And not without reason. From a state-of-the-art paddle court to a range of fascinating culinary experiences - there's everything to make life on a private island even more enjoyable. Especially if you want to spend the Christmas holidays in a hot hideaway.

Sports are done here in an incredible setting, as Vakkaru has expanded an extensive repertoire of sports and fitness facilities to include a paddle tennis court that just opened. This popular racket game guarantees a full-body workout and is ideal for two players or as a family sport. Budding tennis players can improve their serve and game on Vakkaru's new tennis court, which was recently redesigned by the professional team responsible for the Australian Open tennis court. Thanks to a first-class coaching partnership with Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis, you can also play here - on request - against world-famous professionals.

The incredible sunsets of the Maldives can be seen from different places at Vakkaru Resort. Like here the Cabbana Bar in an intimate atmosphere.

Vakkaru: A resort dedicated to sunset and hospitality

Relaxation done right: Merana Spa offers treatments and has its own shop

From mid-December, those looking to balance their overall well-being can improve their breathing exercises at the brand new sunset-facing yoga pavilion on Vakku beach. After the yoga session, head to the resort's Merana Spa. This includes a pampering treatment - above the water.

Also just opened is the resort's Lagoon Bar, with a new teppanyaki table to enjoy the sunset surrounded by your best friends. Sushi, sashimi and special cocktails are prepared by the chef. This is accompanied by steaks, freshly caught seafood and organic vegetables straight from the iron skillet.

Another culinary adventure awaits guests at the resort's Organic Farm, which is becoming a lush tropical island garden and a new venue for culinary events. Surrounded by coconut palms, the farm produces some of the freshest fruits, herbs and vegetables for the resort's restaurant and bar, from lemongrass to Maldivian chilli and water spinach.

Sport is a big priority here: be it in the Over Water Gym or tennis. Thanks to the coaching partnership with Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis, you can also play against world-famous professionals.