Relax in The Maldives

Choose the Maldive Islands as a spectacular beach extension to Sri Lanka, or take a complete break here with a one or two-week stay. The island resorts are too numerous to mention and new properties open all the time, so here are just a few that come highly recommended by Fiona.

Fiona’s ideal places to stay

Makunudu Island Situated in North Malé Atoll, a 50-minute speedboat ride from Male International Airport, Makunudu Island sweeps you into the warm embrace of an original Maldivian retreat. Glistening beaches give way to the crystal clear waters of a turquoise lagoon with unending ocean views. This is a rare haven, beautifully untouched, even for those who travel the world. Your own private hideaway will be one of 36 beachfront bungalows, nestled amid lush tropical vegetation just steps from the shore. Crafted in traditional Maldivian style using local wood, stone and a palette of earthy hues, these spacious havens of relaxation blend rustic charm with modern comforts. Indulge in the pleasure of a garden shower, open to the outdoors yet completely discreet. Bask on your private sun lounger beneath the shade of palms, or under the warm Maldivian sun. Sleep peacefully to the lullaby of lapping waves. Bungalows include: Air conditioning, Ceiling fan, Minibar, Electronic safe, Tea & Coffee-making facilities, Hairdryer, Island-inspired bathroom amenities.

Komandoo  – Coupling the beauty of the Maldives with the charm of a small resort, Komandoo combines award-winning attentiveness and a range of leisure activities to guarantee a laid-back retreat, perfect for a tranquil escape or a getaway with friends. From Male, it’s a comfortable 40-minute seaplane transfer to the resort. Surrounded by incredible marine life, Komandoo is the perfect island for exploring the diverse underwater world. With reef sharks, manta rays and turtles all seen on a regular basis, ocean lovers can enjoy the best of the Maldives’ reefs on their doorstep. Whether it’s a romantic meal for two under a blanket of stars, a sumptuous buffet or fine dining, Komandoo has exquisite dining options for all occasions, with the chance to dine under the sea at neighbouring sister resort, Hurawalhi Maldives. A choice of bars in which to enjoy a favourite tipple completes wining and dining at Komandoo. Connect body and soul at the haven of well-being, Duniye Spa, where relaxation and peace go hand in hand as you allow yourself to be pampered and rejuvenated. Komandoo’s romantic Jacuzzi Beach villas are located just a few short steps away from the lagoon. The elegant villas line the beautiful powdery white beach that encircles the tropical island. The proximity to the beach and features of the room make it the ideal romantic escape, perfect for a Maldives honeymoon. Enjoy the spacious bathroom with an outdoor patio and Jacuzzi to experience the true relaxation of the Maldives. Jacuzzi Beach Villa Facilities Include: Private Jacuzzi, Four-Poster Bed, Air Conditioning, Ceiling Fan, Mini Bar, Sun Lounger, Stunning Ocean Views, Espresso Machine.

Soneva Fushi is an extremely luxurious resort spread out along the beach. It comprises 42 villas and rooms, some with private plunge pool and all with ceiling fans and air-conditioning, bathtub with hot water, private veranda and walk-in garden. Soneva Fushi’s villas are particularly well-appointed. In addition to fine dining there is also a weekly barbeque. The resort is a 30-minute flight from Male by seaplane. The ‘Raison d’Etre’ Spa, specialising in well-being, self-discovery and development, is well worth a visit.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa is approximately 25 minutes from Male International Airport by speedboat. It features a combination of beautiful beach and water bungalows, some with their own plunge pool. The resort offers a choice of restaurants, the largest fresh-water swimming pool in the Maldives (with a sundeck overlooking the lagoon), a PADI dive school, spa and gym. Other facilities include big-game fishing, windsurfing and island excursions. This is a truly exceptional resort.

Kanuhura is a luxury resort comprising 75 air-conditioned beach villas and 18 water villas, all with four-poster bed, mini-bar, TV and private veranda. The resort has two restaurants and three bars. Its health club is the largest in the Maldives, and other facilities include a swimming pool, tennis and squash courts, diving and variety of water sports. The diving in particular is superb. Fly up by seaplane — 35 minutes from Male.

The Banyan Tree on Vabbinfaru Island is 20 minutes from Male Airport by speedboat. The 48 round villas with Indonesian Alang Alang roofs are fan-cooled, and have Venetian doors and small sundecks. There are two restaurants, a shop, a bar and a fantastic spa. The island offers wonderful diving and trips in glass-bottom boats. There is an excellent house-reef.

Baros Island is a small yet superbly presented island in North Male Atoll only 25 minutes by speedboat from the airport. The 75 air-conditioned cottages are all made from coconut wood and have thatched roofs, polished wood floors and sea facing aspects – they all also have hot and cold freshwater showers/baths, mini bar and hairdryer. There is a main restaurant, coffee shop, and a Palm Garden Asian restaurant for those on half board. Other attractions include a BBQ, gift shop, dive school, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, some disco evenings, excursions and night/day fishing. This is a very friendly island with good house-reef close by. There are also sixteen luxurious, superbly appointed water bungalows on stilts over the water.

Prices vary according to the final itinerary – please contact us for more details.

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