It seems the adage that good things come to those who wait is true. Following the soft opening of Raffles’ first resort in the Maldives, the hotel group has now introduced 16 new overwater villas, set on the southern tip of the Maldives in the remote and pristine Gaafu Alifu Atoll.
Peppered with palm trees Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is a haven for beach lovers. The private island features only 21 villas and residences, a sublime spa, beachside restaurants and world-class dive centre with an on-site marine biologist.
Just a moment away by boat the Raffles Maldives Meradhoo’s Overwater Island Experience completes the resort. With its vast overwater villas and residences, sophisticated Nikkei restaurant Yuzu and sunset-facing Yapa pool bar, it is set to provide unparalleled luxury to those who dream of a life spent on the water.
Gaafu Alifu Atoll
Gaafu Alifu atoll is one of the world’s largest and deepest atolls and the astoundingly clear, blissfully warm waters immediately surrounding the Raffles resort teem with a kaleidoscope of colourful fish.
A unique offering, a Marine Butler is available to every guest and will happily lead snorkelling tours of the resort’s two remarkable and endlessly fascinating house reefs.
Guests are also encouraged to keep an eye out for Apollo, one of the 20 resident hawksbill and green turtles that regularly swim by to say hello.
“For couples looking for an unforgettable romantic hideaway, our exceptionally spacious villas and the discreet expertise of the Raffles butler service redefines the resort experience,” says Oliver Larcher, General Manager of Raffles Maldives Meradhoo.
“From intimate dining with our private chef service to snorkelling and diving in the world’s most breathtaking coral reefs, we create a place where guests can enjoy the best of both worlds in a destination known for its stunning surroundings,” he adds.
On The Beach Treats
On the beach island, the overwater Raffles Spa combines Eastern practices with age-old local influences and offers highly personalised facials, rejuvenating body treatments and signature manicure and pedicure services.
An expansive gym caters to all fitness levels, yoga sessions are held on an ocean-facing deck, a jogging route winds its way along gardens abloom with hibiscus and bougainvillea, visiting practitioners will lead practice sessions in tai chi, mindfulness and more.
Wining and Dining
Relaxed feet-in-the-sand dining is encouraged here, too. The Firepit is an outdoor barbecue restaurant where hearty seafood and meat specialties such as spicy lobster with green papaya and tender beef tenderloin are flame-grilled over the charcoal fire.
The tables and chairs carved from the sand are set directly on the shore for uninterrupted views of the starlit skyline. Starting with healthy smoothies and freshly baked pastries, breakfast is a highlight at the all-day international restaurant Thari.
Paying homage to its namesake at Raffles Singapore, guests can enjoy the signature Maldives Sling at the Long Bar which features a special concoction of gin, grapefruit, coconut, cinnamon and clove that mirrors the Maldivian evening sunset.
Spend The Night
Wherever guests spend the night, they will reside in some of the largest villas in the Maldives – each featuring a large marble bathtub, private pool and outdoor shower.
Surrounded by lush foliage, the beach villas offer a sunrise or sunset view while the overwater villas overlook the dazzlingly turquoise water.
On both islands, the luxurious two-bedroom residences provide an exclusive retreat for families and friends, while the Raffles Royal Residence offers the perfect setting for a very special celebration.
Opening on the beach island next year, this three-bedroom hideaway is the ultimate Indian Ocean luxury that features an infinity pool, endless space and a retractable roof on its upper level so guests can enjoy the beautiful night skies under the stars.
Getting There
SAA offers non-stop charter flights to the Maldives. Book your tickets today!
