10 Over-Water Villas Beyond the Maldives
- Unearthed Team
- Feb 12
- 9 min read
Updated: Apr 17
Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of water beneath your feet, surrounded by the beauty of nature’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the secluded islands of Southeast Asia, the Maldives isn’t the only place in the world which has some rather spectacular over-water villas. From tropical cabins perched over crystal-clear waters to architectural marvels with views of snowy mountains and icy lakes, sleeping on top of water can is valid any season of the year.
Perched above the emerald waters of the Caribbean Sea, these aqua-lodges were built with the idea of creating an immersive environment between guests and nature. Each of the nine exclusive cabins are built on stilts, offering tropical views of the Bocas del Toro archipelago. One can only hope for one of Panama’s infamously dramatic sunsets whilst waiting for dolphins to start their leaping ritual.
The resort takes eco-conscious lodging so seriously that it has its own sustainability program which considers not only their architectural impact but their waste disposal system as well. It is know wonder it has previously been called one of the world's most sustainable hotels.
The decor reflects the tropical feel of Panama with all of its villas (called suites) featuring palm roofs and colourful wooden beams to complement its natural surroundings. The rooms have a variety features such as comfortable hammocks on the terrace and ingenious windows in the master bedrooms which showcases incredible views of the bay.
IT STANDS OUT: The cabins at Punta Caracol are built using traditional methods of the Archipelago such as the wooden frame design and palm leaf roof, a nod to the native communities of the region. This detail is also combined with alternative energy solutions such as solar panels and a sewage purifying system. Their staff is 100% Panamanian.
Whilst the majority of over-water bungalows are reflected by the crystal clear waters of our world’s oceans and seas, Panvaree Resort is nestled within the stunning landscape of Khao Sok National Park. This floating retreat is surrounded by the serene beauty of Cheow Lan Lake, providing panoramic views of towering cliffs and the lakes intensely turquoise waters.
The fact that it is nestled in a national park and surrounded by cliffs on all side may be the reason why it feels like a lake-side oasis in the tropics. The resort also takes advantage of their serene location by providing daytime activities such as kayaking, hikes to the nearby Coral cave and slow boat rides around the lake to witness some of the area's amazing wildlife.
IT STANDS OUT: Given the fact that these villas are perched on top of a lake — in a National Park for that matter — the still water and peaceful environment is perfect to spend the day kayaking or trekking through the surrounding tropical rainforest trails.
The setting may not be your typical, tropical getaway villa but the modern design of the Hotel Palafitte thoughtfully complements the natural serenity of Lake Neuchâtel which it sits on. the hotel’s stilt-supported pavilions provide guests with uninterrupted views of the lake and the distant Alps. Cold-water dips are better for your health anyway.
Sleek, Swiss engineering oozes out of the pavilions, 38 of them to be exact. Of course, this is one of those locations which changes drastically throughout the calendar year. In the winter months, expect gorgeous sunset overs the frigid waters and snowcapped mountains in the distance. During the summer, you can experience the 'beach club and tropics' spirit which the hotel presents with its well-thought out Summer Bay Terrace. You may even want to book one of their massages to your suite...on your terrace...overlooking the water.
IT STANDS OUT: The hotel was built in 2002 as part of the Swiss National Exhibition, Expo 02 via a collaboration between architect, Kurt Hofmann and students from the hotel management school, l’Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne. The aim was to create a work of art in which international guests could stay in whilst visiting the exhibition.
This five-star resort is tucked away in the northeast coast of Mauritius’ tropical landscape. The overall architecture extends in an unpredictable fashion, weaving in and out of lush greenery dotted along the Barachois lagoon. Their spa services and world-class dining make turn this affair into a romantic haven of refined luxury and tranquility.
As part of the Leading Hotels of World, they know a thing or two about how to incorporate luxury into nature. The Constance Prince Maurice incorporates the luscious green bushland which surround the villas with their architectural design. It creates a type of immersive sanctuary which is further demonstrated by the interior decor, reflecting a rustic take on opulence.
They also have an extensive list of activities and excursions which add a touch of colourful culture to a luxury stay in Mauritius. Wine tastings, sunset catamaran cruises, water skiing, yoga are just a small part of that list. If anything, the Indian Ocean is the perfect playground to experience it all.
IT STANDS OUT: Their property includes not one but two 18-hole championship golf courses. Both were professionally designed and offer challenging plays, serenity and a type of natural beauty which only Mauritius can offer.
These pavilions and villas overlook Providenciales' Northwest Point Marine National Park, surrounded by white sand and turquoise waters amidst 18,000 acres of nature reserve. Whilst the accommodation isn’t in the water like the rest, their villas are situated up close and personal with rocky cutouts of the coast.
As part of the Aman Group, this resort represents the brand's ethos for an intimate retreat experience. Not only is it secluded, but the design of their pavilions create an expert balance between indoor and outdoors living. Whilst the interior decor of the villas are captivating (think sleek, tropical and classic all in one), it make be pertinent to point out that the real hero are the black infinity pools which the villas are set around.
Their villa selection varies from a modest two-bedroom to family-size six-bedroom establishments. It may be overwhelming to choose between wanting to overlook pristine ponds, luscious gardens or a classic ocean front. Or you could choose one of the ones which provide direct beach access...
IT STANDS OUT: Between the beaches which only an island can carve out and the resorts array of private infinity pools, it may be hard to decide where to lounge for the day.
Hidden away in Cambodia’s Koh Rong Archipelago, Song Saa Private Island offers an eco-luxury retreat where sustainability and serenity go hand in hand. Their ethos dives head first into forming a deep connection with nature whilst providing 360 degree views of Cambodia’s coastline.
The resort is part of the Song Saa Collective, a group of enterprises which prioritises eco-tourism and conservation. They also operate the Song Saa Foundation. This has allowed them to serve the community of the Koh Rong Archipelago for over ten years, providing medical resources, education, and management systems to protect and improve welfare.
As of 2023, Song Saa Private Island became a Certified B Corporation. This luxury oasis amidst serenity blends into an intimate escape with deep connections to the social and environmental settings of the archipelago. Their wooden villas were built using local expertise, nestled in the native brush and are perfect spots to view Cambodia's versatile reef - a natural beauty which the Song Saa Foundation works to protect.
IT STANDS OUT: The resort was built with reclaimed timber and materials from the mainland, where the villas are furnished with up-cycled décor and repurposed furniture. In fact, discarded driftwood has found a new life as a table or bench whilst oil drums have been turned into lamps.
This tropical getaway is found at the heart of Raja Ampat. Misool is a private island resort and marine reserve giving the eco-conscious traveller an excuse to live lavishly along Indonesia’s coastline. What gives this over water villa retreat even more of a serenity factor is its location in one of the archipelago’s uninhabited islands.
Misool is, in their words, run by "a passionate group of divers, conservationists, eco-geeks, and dreamers". It is located along some of the world's most pristine reef systems, located within a conservation centre which includes the Raja Ampat Shark and Manta Sanctuary. It is no surprise that they also have over 60 scuba diving sites within a one-hour radius of the island, all of which can be explored by guests. Marine biodiversity is just one of the many conservation projects they are undertaking, running a number of environmental and social initiatives through their sister charity, the Misool Foundation.
The Balinese-style villas are distributed along the karst rock formations along the coastline and feature spacious living areas, open-air bathrooms and a backdrop of tropical furnishings. There are eight water cottages perched on stilts above what is known as the North Lagoon. The hammock on the veranda is a perfect addition to soak up with island's tranquil atmosphere.
IT STANDS OUT: The resort lies along some of the most pristine reef systems left in the world. As a diver’s paradise, Misool boasts some of the world’s richest marine biodiversity, inviting guests to explore vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life.
Floating on the serene waters of the Lule River in Swedish Lapland, Arctic Bath Hotel and Spa offers a one-of-a-kind wellness retreat inspired by the raw beauty of the Arctic wilderness. This architectural marvel, resembling a cluster of floating timber logs, combines contemporary design with traditional Scandinavian charm.
If you're going to be cold, it might as well be under the aurora borealis. While this particular viewing depends on the season, the Arctic Bath Hotel and Spa offers cozy hideaways year-round. The villas and suites are built using natural and sustainable materials, blending in with the Scandinavian wilderness.
There are six floating cabins that sit along the shoreline which feature a double room, quaint living area and a wooden deck all around. The interior decor is simple and mimics a winter lodge whilst the outside terrace features sun loungers and the all-important ladder into the Lule River. Depending on when you go, the cabin may by free-floating or frozen in place so plan accordingly.
IT STANDS OUT: One of, if not the only places in the world where you can experience the luxurious allure of staying in an over water villa whilst simultaneously sipping on hot chocolate and admiring the northern lights
Nestled in the remote Anambas Archipelago of Indonesia, Bawah Reserve is a sustainable paradise spread across six pristine islands, lush jungles, and crystal-clear lagoons. This exclusive retreat offers eco-conscious luxury through elegantly designed overwater, beach, and garden suites crafted from natural materials.
Whilst situated in the western part of the South China Sea, this island enclave is closer to Malaysia than it is to its home country of Indonesia. It therefore makes sense that coming and going from this resort is made simpler by seaplane. To integrate this as part of their seamless hospitality process, the resort provide door-to-door escort process to make the travel just as much a part of the luxury experience.
The Anambas Archipelago itself is home to over 200 islands and an array of species of flora and fauna, giving guests the opportunity to take part in idyllic outdoor activities. Their overwater bungalows provide views of the turquoise waters and provide glimpses of the nearby islands which dot the horizon. The master bedrooms feature canopy beds placed in the centre of the room whilst neutral furnishings give accents to the wooden interior. Let's not forget that green hue which can only be found in Indonesia's lush landscape.
IT STANDS OUT: Scattered along the resort’s luscious terrain, their four restaurants showcase an array of Indonesian and Mediterranean flavours. They deliver a blend of barefoot luxury through a farm-to-table experience which plays into their ‘minimal impact’ philosophy
Set within the lush mangroves of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Banyan Tree Mayakoba is a sanctuary of luxury where nature and sophistication converge. This five-star resort offers elegant villas with private pools, surrounded by tranquil lagoons, pristine beaches, and tropical gardens.
The resort is thoughtfully positioned in a culturally-rich environment in the Riviera Maya within a gated community. Whilst it exudes relaxation aided by luxury, they also provide world-class dining and wellness programs which make this an immersive sanctuary for rejuvenation. Even though you are in Mexico, the spa treatments, interior decor and cuisine reflect Asian traditions. As they put it: "Get the best of two continents."
Comentários