Fans of Mandarin Oriental have an exceptional collection of luxury hotels to choose from in some of the finest cities and beach destinations around the world, but the Indian Ocean has so far been bereft of a Mandarin Oriental resort. Not for much longer. The Asian hotel brand has revealed plans to open a three-island resort in the South Male Atoll in 2025, currently being developed on Bolidhuffaru Reef, 20 minutes from Velana International Airport.
The all-villa resort will comprise 56 overwater villas and 64 beachfront villas ranging from 200 to 1,000 square metres, all with private pools, including 10 branded Residences at Mandarin Oriental, which will be available for full ownership.
Wellness is core to the Mandarin Oriental offering and the Maldives property will be no exception. Twelve spa treatment suites, vitality pools, sauna and steam rooms and a beauty salon will be located within the resort’s tropical gardens, and creative indoor and outdoor event spaces will provide a blank canvas for wedding and event planners. Guests will be able to choose from six dining venues, including three speciality restaurants and a sunset bar, as well as a water sports and dive centre, tennis courts and a kids’ club.
Mandarin Oriental says it is working with various international consultants to ensure sustainability best practises are followed in all stages of development.