The shrill cry of a delighted Asian Koel pierces the gentle calm as it secures its treasure of a dimpled noni fruit. Its jet-black feathers and blood-red eyes are just a small brushstroke on the tapestry of flora and fauna that surrounds us. Frangipani petals shaded yellow, white and pink add pops of colour to the towering trees’ dark brown trunks and lush green branches. At our feet, a curious, white-breasted waterhen appears before scuttling back into the safety of the dense shrubbery. Crowned with my leaf hat and a coconut drink in hand, I’m starting to think island life just might be for me.
It is my penultimate afternoon on the island of Olhahali, a picturesque islet that peaks just above the azure blue waters of the Maldives’ North Malé Atoll. I am currently wandering along the island’s sandy paths as part of a nature guided walk, laid on but Jumeirah Ohahali Island, the enchanting property that calls this corner of the world home. The tour is only one of a plethora of excursions, designed to immerse you in the surrounding wildlife, both on land and at sea. There’s the Semi-Submarine Adventure, that sees us glide just below the surface, offering marvellous views of the jagged coral reefs that are teeming with kaleidoscopic fish and languid turtles going about their daily business – a real thrill for someone like me who was fascinated by the adventures of legendary maritime explorer, Jacques Cousteau as a child.
For a more up close and personal experience of marine life, the snorkelling expedition is a must. After a short boat journey to the property’s golden sandbank that reveals itself to the world every morning, we dive in, sporting our sleek, black flippers and snorkel mask. It’s a palette of blues, oranges, yellows, greens and blacks as the fish glide through the waves that roll up towards the aforementioned sandbank, that grows ever smaller with each passing hour.
Back on dry land, guests are invited to enjoy a game of tennis underneath the stars at the beachfront court that is surrounded by gently swaying palm trees. Or they can unleash their creative flair, with an artist-led ground workshop – think watercolour painting, acrylic art, seashell jewellery-making and lacquer art making. Culinary workshops allow for creativity to be expressed through food and beverage with sushi masterclasses on Thursdays, pizza making on Fridays and coffee latte art on Saturdays. However, it is a session at Tailse Spa for me.
Boasting six over-water treatment rooms, the spa is as dreamy as it comes. I am led over a boardwalk that hovers above waters that gently lap against the pillars supporting the wooden structure. Amit, my therapist, opens the door to reveal a deep-standing bathtub, a treatment bed and a giant window that showcases the entire ocean and some frolicking dolphins. I enjoy a 60-minute massage before experiencing a full body scrub using coconut extract. Beneath the bed, a glass window offers you a view of the seabed, should you be able to stay conscious during your indulgent treatment – I didn’t. Feeling refreshed, I head for lunch.
Gastronomes have five restaurants with which to contend. Breakfasts are served at Glow, where a smorgasbord of flavours from around the world await at the buffet as well as Bellini & Mimosi Station for those seeking to truly start the day on the right note. Café Lounge offers delicious coffee and stunning views of the horizon whereas Gelateria is where I satisfy my sugar cravings with one of 30 different flavours of ice-cream. When day turns to night, KAYTO sets the mood with dimmed lighting and live music. The menu consists of Nikkei cuisine and signature cocktails. I can’t resist the fish tempura taco and a selection of sushi rolls. However, for lunch it has to be the indoor-outdoor venue of Shimmers. It espouses beach club vibes featuring chilled beats from a live DJ, exquisite ocean views and Mediterranean cuisine. For this midday feast, I tempt myself to a classic poolside bite of burger and fries.
Despite its excellent offerings being complemented by sublime service, my Water Villa with Pool is the star of the show. Perched above the waters, this two-storey, 351 square-metre haven is simply magical. One of only 67 residences on the island, the villa is bathed in natural light, with floor-to-ceiling windows surrendering those incredible ocean views. The interiors are inspired by nautical forms and tones which creates a sense of minimalism, even though I have everything at my fingertips. There is a living room that features a cozy sofa that sits in front of a HD TV. In the bedroom, there is a king-sized bed facing the window, dressed in crisp white sheets, that sees me wake up every morning to blue skies and blue waters. The bathroom is ginormous and enjoys a bathtub, rainfall shower and double vanity mirrors alongside Grown Alchemist amenities.
The villa’s wooden deck leads me out towards my own private pool. I quickly get used to a regular rotating schedule of sunbathing and dipping – it is rather hot after all. However, the pool isn’t even the best part. Around the corner, a staircase takes me to the rooftop, where a giant, circular sofa beckons me forward to relax upon its plush cushions and stare at the ocean or the stars when night falls. And what’s more, as part of the property’s exclusive offerings, a projector can be set up so guests can watch a movie in the evening. Yet, I decide to forego this enticing opportunity to gaze at the full moon each night.
Jumeirah Olhahali Island is the epitome of island luxury. A place where you can be fully immersed in nature without having to do without all the modern luxuries of city life. It is truly contemporary island living at its best.
Jumeirah.com
