SOMEWHERE IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE
Hamburg-based Seaside Collection opens .HERE – the smallest luxury resort in the Maldives.
Here, the word ‘paradise’ still holds true
Hamburg/Malé, 14 May 2025 – It is the smallest resort in the Maldives – and the most exclusive. The new ultra-luxury resort .HERE, located in the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll, comprises nine villas spread across two islands, marking an expansion of the Hamburg-based Seaside Collection’s portfolio. Here, the word ‘paradise’ truly holds its meaning. Among the exquisite extras are private pools that appear to float above the island’s greenery and are 61 metres long – guests swim out to sea and into the sky. Or the vast villas, on whose terraces they can watch the sunrise and sunset: at .HERE, every villa is flanked by lush greenery on one side, overlooks the ocean on the other, and has its own private jetty. A luxury yacht (Saxdor 400 GTO) takes visitors directly to their villa after they land by seaplane. Naturally, this also includes a fully equipped kitchen and a stylish bar stocked with premium spirits. And charming staff, such as butlers, a private chef or a personal trainer, are on hand around the clock.
The $50 million project encompasses the island of ‘Somewhere’, featuring seven two-storey private villas, each with three or four bedrooms – and, measuring 1,117 and 1,396 square metres respectively, offer plenty of space for families or travellers with staff. The second island, ‘Nowhere’, comprises two villas with a total area of 3,115 square metres. It can be booked exclusively. Both islands feature a stunning restaurant, a bar and a luxurious spa.
The private villas were designed by the architectural firm KulörGroup. Their concept artfully blends the lush jungle greenery with the sparkling turquoise sea, harmonising both above and below the water with the biosphere in which the natural islands are nestled. The London-based studio Muza Lab is responsible for the interior design. Its owner, Inge Moore, transports guests into a world of her own that leaves even the most seasoned travellers in awe. For the design, she drew inspiration from celestial objects and the underwater world. A magnificent composition of fine woods, mosaics, marble and the finest fabrics. Alongside the green of the palm trees, the yellow of the stars in the night sky and the rising and setting sun, the colours are inspired by the corals of the sea. The subtle elegance and playful charm of the design also allude to the local treasures of the Maldives, such as the dhoni boats or the feyli sarongs.
At .HERE, luxury means having a choice: Guests looking for a bit more action alongside the privacy and transcendental tranquillity of the island and the villas can be whisked away in a matter of minutes by luxury yacht to the neighbouring Finolhu resort, which also forms part of the Seaside Collection, featuring a tennis court and paddle tennis court, a gym, the elegant Fehi Spa and four speciality restaurants. Guests can set off on diving and snorkelling trips with the crew of the Padi Dive Centre; teenagers can play the guitar and sing in the music studio at the new Teens Hut, watch films or take part in DJ workshops.
“Our vision is not only to redefine and push the boundaries set by others, but also to offer new experiences to the most discerning travellers. Our commitment to excellence, exquisite service and rare experiences will help us achieve this. We look forward to welcoming everyone seeking something out of the ordinary to .HERE,” says owner Gregor Gerlach, who runs the Seaside Collection together with his sister Anouchka Gerlach.
The only flaw in paradise? That the holiday has to come to an end at some point.
About the Seaside Collection
The Seaside Collection comprises a group of 11 hotels across the Canary Islands, Germany, Valencia and the Maldives. Each resort offers a subtle celebration of luxury. In addition to their exceptional locations, stunning architecture and unforgettable culinary experiences, these four- and five-star hotels are characterised by the passionate hospitality of their staff.
