Rising above the turquoise waters of the picturesque Emboodhoo Lagoon is the pristine private island of SO/ MALDIVES. A leisurely speedboat ride from Male’s Velana International Airport, this avant-garde island paradise promises to wrap up travellers in blissful relaxation from the moment they arrive.
As guests take their first steps on terra firma, they are greeted by the property’s bold architecture and furnishings, inspired by contemporary couture’s craftsmanship and theatrics. A stunning over-water pavilion grabs attention immediately thanks to its blend of clean lines, cool neutrals, natural wood and vibrant accents; defining designs of the resort that are seen at every turn. Eye-catching walkways that are adorned by billowing fabrics and architectural timber canopies perfectly entwine with the island’s verdant landscape for a dramatic and colourful canvas.
A sense of dramatic style runs throughout the property, no more so than at the Haute-Couture runway, where guests become part of a glamorous catwalk linking the island’s public areas. Here, each area serves as a venue for guests to see and be seen strutting their stuff against the backdrop of playful yet bold fashion-inspired buildings.
Peppering the five-star resort is a chic collection of 80 villas, where the emphasis is on natural light, open-plan living and panoramic ocean views. Replete with a private pool and deck as well as a 24-hour butler service, guests can choose to hang their hat at one of the Beach Villa Collection, where wrap-around glass offers mesmerising views of the ocean and is only seconds from perfect Maldivian sand. Or step into the blue with the Water Villa Collection that combines artisanal design interiors with unequalled sea vistas. And for those with a penchant for sustainability, the villas come complete with hidden solar panels, offering guests a serene, eco-conscious retreat amid stunning scenery.
Food-forwards guests can take their pick from three distinct culinary concepts. For casual bites, all-day dining venue The Citronelle Club showcases a selection of enticing Pan-Asian epicurean delights that are served alongside epic ocean panoramas. Those seeking the charms and tastes of the Mediterranean should pull up a chair at Lazuli Beach Club—think grilled seabass, vegetable skewers, barbecues and creative cocktails to the sound of chilled out tunes. At signature restaurant Hadaba, gastronomes are tempted in for a Middle Eastern feast. Nestled on the coastal tip of the resort and spanning two floors, expect endless ocean views and Levantine bites including freshly baked Laffa bread, delivered upon a showpiece custom Saj, ceviche specials and slow-cooked lamb shawarma.
Don’t forget to slow things down and make an appointment at the Wellness Camp SO Spa. With a layout based on flowing water and landscapes, the mind clears and the soul calms in this most serene of settings that includes a Vichy rainforest shower, steam, sauna and treatment rooms. Guests can indulge in a spa treatment, enjoy a yoga and meditation session or increase the tempo with a workout at the state-of-the-art fitness sphere. While mum and dad enjoy their journey on supreme rejuvenation, little ones are invited to discover The Nest Kids Club. Equipped with an abundance of toys and engaging activities as well as The Zone, a games-centric haven, children are also offered the opportunity to connect and learn with nature at the water sports hub. Here, families can dive into an incredible range of aqua-tainment including swimming with sharks, taking a cruise with dolphins and jet skiing across the turquoise waters that surround the island.
The summer getaway is looking very glamorous at SO/ MALDIVES.
