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The Maldives was formerly known as the "King of the Islands," and in the local Dhivehi language, it also means "garland of the islands." These are fitting names to describe this sparkling archipelago with its surreal landscapes. With its prime location and abundant natural beauty, the Maldives has become a hub for luxurious resorts.
Below are five ultra-luxury resorts located in the Maldives that anyone would dream of experiencing at least once in their lifetime.
Velaa Private Island Resort
Located on the stunning Noonu Atoll, 187 km north of Malé, this private resort's name, "Veela," means 'Turtle Island' in the local language, in honor of the countless generations of sea turtles that have flocked to its sandy shores to nest and hatch over the years. The private Velaa Island also plans to incubate and conserve these sea turtles.
Upon arrival, guests will be provided with private butlers to ensure the most perfect vacation experience possible.
You'll arrive at Velaa by seaplane and get a panoramic view of this stunning resort from above. Even more unique, the entire resort resembles the head of a turtle, with the island forming its body. In addition, visitors can explore the surrounding areas of the island by private, luxurious boats.
Cheval Blanc Randheli
Another highlight of Noonu Atoll is the impressive Cheval Blanc Randhel resort. Similar to Velaa, guests at Cheval Blanc Randhel can enjoy a completely private stay on an island.
Another luxurious aspect that sets Cheval Blanc Randhel apart is the Garden Water villa. This villa, built in a stilt-house style, features a lush garden, an infinity pool, and a spacious patio with a dining table, armchairs, and benches placed right by the water.
The resort's architecture is a blend of modern materials and natural materials such as rattan, bamboo, mother-of-pearl, coral, and leather.
This impressive resort also features a secluded island with its own pier and dock. It boasts a unique four-bedroom suite spread across one hectare of the island, setting the standard for "total privacy." Guests can enjoy a private spa, a 25-meter outdoor pool, pristine beaches, and unique gardens. The main house offers three spacious, light-filled living rooms with a grand piano, ample sofas, an art gallery, and a bar.
One&Only Reethi RahNorth
One & Only Reethi Rah is hailed as a jewel of the northern Malé atoll. Beneath its crystal-clear waters, you'll find over 2,000 species of fish swimming among stunning coral reefs. The resort boasts 6 km of private coastline, including 12 pristine beaches, two private swimming pools – one for adults, one for children and families – and a 30-meter-long cove extending into the lagoons.
The entire resort boasts four restaurants, most notably BOTANICA, which serves meals amidst hundreds of flowers or under the canopy of ancient Banyan trees, and the contemporary Japanese restaurant Tapasake. This restaurant offers creative sake cocktails, fresh sushi and sashimi, and four outdoor Teppanyaki dining areas. For those wishing to enjoy a drink, head to Fanditha Bar – one of three bars at One & Only Reethi Rah and arguably the most romantic spot to watch the sunset over the sparkling ocean.
Similar to the Chevel resort mentioned above, One & Only Reethi Rah also offers guests a private island retreat called the Grand Sunset Residence. Surrounded by lush tropical greenery, it features three private bedrooms, a luxurious dining and living area, and a private 50 m² swimming pool encircled by an elaborate terrace. It also includes a large wine cellar containing over 4,000 bottles of 500 labels from renowned regions of California, Bordeaux, Tuscany, Australia, and South Africa.
Kudadoo Maldives Private Island
Kudadoo Maldives, with its 15 overwater villas offering stunning ocean views, provides a premium experience that will satisfy even the most discerning guests. Here, visitors can swim with stingrays, freely observe sea turtles, go dolphin watching at sunset, take a plane ride, ride a scooter on the water, and even go snorkeling with sharks.
Like most resorts in the Maldives, Kkishoo is strongly committed to sustainability and eco-friendliness, operating entirely on solar power. Architect Yuji Yamazaki, who oversaw the island's eco-design, used eco-conscious materials including wood from sustainably managed forests in Canada, New Zealand, and Indonesia.
If you visit Kudadoo, enjoy a romantic date on Dream Island in Ihaviyani – a coral atoll on a sandy beach located just a short distance from the main island. While there, you should try the food at Kkishoo, the world's largest underwater restaurant, serving dinner featuring exquisite fish dishes.
Four Seasons Maldives Landaa Giraavaru
The Four Seasons Hotel in the Maldives is a resort located on the 44-acre island of Landaa Giraavaru within the UNESCO Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve. A 35-minute seaplane flight from Malé International Airport will take you there.
Guests often choose to relax by the large pool with a terrace overlooking the sea and enjoy a meal while watching the sunset. In addition, the resort offers a free spa and yoga area at The Spa & Ayurvedic Retreat, an outdoor space spanning 1.2 hectares. Even more special, it also offers Ayurvedic retreats to help guests improve their mental well-being.
For a light snack and drinks, visitors can head to Shish Bar for cocktails, lounging on sofas adorned with curtains and lanterns while enjoying the view. Then, ascend the stairs to Al Barakat restaurant on the rooftop for exquisite meals. For a more unique experience, visitors can go to Landaa Hoi Fuego – a secluded floating platform in the lagoon – for a romantic candlelit dinner served by boat. Or, for something more exciting, visit Om Supti Night Spa, nestled in a private jungle, featuring an outdoor bath and rocking beds, creating the perfect setting for a deep and peaceful sleep.
