Luxury Resorts of the Maldives

Photo by Oliver Sjöström on Pexels

With its bathtub-warm water, white-sand beaches, and overwater bungalows, the Maldives is the symbol of luxury travel. This archipelagic state consists of 1,192 idyllic coral islands dispersed over 180 kilometers in the Northern Indian Ocean. An utterly unique destination, around 150 islands provide the setting of a luxury resort committed to upholding the highest standard of hospitality, privacy, and facilities.  

Velaa Private Island

Situated in the Noonu Atoll, Velaa Private Island is named in honor of the sea turtles that live in the azure waters.

Committed to exclusivity, this high-end resort consists of 45 luxurious residences including the Sunset Deluxe Water Villa, and Ocean Pool House. The vast majority are built over the water and come with a personal infinity-edge plunge pool. Honeymooners may reserve the Romantic Pool Residence, a villa suspended over the lagoon accessible only by boat.

Amenities at Velaa Private Island include a state-of-the-art spa with Ayurvedic treatments and therapies plus yoga and meditation classes. In addition to a sauna and steam room, the facility contains the only “snow room” in the Maldives. 

Michelin-Star Chef, Adeline Grattard, is responsible for the three restaurants and two bars located on the island. The signature restaurant, Athiri, presents a global menu using locally-sourced ingredients where possible while Aragu tempts with a high-end culinary experience overlooking the ocean.

This family-friendly resort also features a Kids Club complete with a water park and activities program. 

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

In the South Malé Atoll, the Waldorf Astoria Maldives is built atop Ithaafushi Island. The luxe resort comprises 119 beach, reef, and overwater villas, all with private pools. For travelers celebrating a milestone, the Private Island provides lodging to 24 guests across three stylish villas and constitutes the largest accommodation in its category in the Maldives. 

The wellness suite offers a treatment menu inspired by the four elements plus yoga and fitness classes. An aquatic therapy center is equipped with a jet bath, air jets, and shower jets with varying levels of intensity and temperature designed to ease tension and boost the immune system.

When hunger strikes, guests can choose from 11 restaurants. Michelin-starred chef Dave Pynt takes the helm at Zuma Maldives while Terra offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience with its hand-crafted bamboo dining pods.

St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort 

Occupying Vommuli Island in the Dhaalu Atoll, the 5-star St. Regis Maldives Resort offers 77 villas. Forty-four are overwater villas while 33 sit directly on the beach, with garden or ocean views. The John Jacob Astor Estate accommodates up to 12 guests and is furnished with its own infinity pool, hot tub, and two plunge pools.

There are six dining options on the island, offering a mix of Maldivian, pan-Asian, Middle Eastern, and Italian cuisine. Couples can request a private dining experience on the sand, lit only with the stars and a scattering of lanterns. On the other hand, the subterranean wine cellar, Decanter, is available for an exclusive five-course supper with wine pairing. 

Guests are encouraged to connect with the activities, culture, and cuisine of the Maldives. Scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and parasailing are available while the resort contains a pool and separate swim space for children. 

Contact me to finalize your plans for experiencing one of these luxury resorts in the Maldives.

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