As one of the oldest properties in the Maldives, Vivanta by Taj Coral Reef has had plenty of time to perfect its idea of island luxury. Speeding across bumpy waters from Malé to Hembadhu Island, I am struck by the abundance of vegetation, making the island look wild and overgrown. In fact, were it not for the jetty and a stack of canary yellow canoes piled on the beach, I might have assumed no one was inhabiting the island at all.
When talking about the assets of luxury resorts, one would probably speak of infinity pools, spas and food and beverage offerings, but it’s this apparent overgrowth of vegetation that’s key to Coral Reef’s ‘barefoot luxury’ ethos. I am told that the resort was actually built around the greenery, which explains why the journey to my villa involves a stroll down
a winding sandy path interrupted by small shrubs or low-hanging branches — and the occasional lizard.
Villa 126 is a generously sized over-water abode on the northern side of the island, well out of sight of the arrival jetty. The door opens onto an open bedroom and living space, which is an airy medley of neutral colours teamed with simple wooden and wicker furnishings. A king-size bed directly faces floor-to-ceiling glass doors, revealing the private deck and beautiful lagoon beyond. A small partition separates the bed from a modest workstation, should business absolutely fall on the agenda at some point (take note: Wi-Fi still incurs a charge here). If you must conduct business, you can multi-task by addressing emails from your sun bed on the deck.
If you’ve left business behind, then your biggest decision of the day will most likely be whether to watch the local marine life frolic in the waters around your villa, or to don a snorkel and fins (which can be picked up from the resort’s dive centre) and jump straight in and join them. Those who prefer to stay relatively dry can opt for a guided canoe ride or chill out with a freshly squeezed juice by the communal infinity pool. If you’re an experienced diver, the resort’s own shipwreck is waiting to be explored.
No matter what your agenda, activity should be complemented by sufficient relaxation. That’s where the oversized tub of the marble-clad bathroom comes in. The bathroom is also equipped with a rain shower, Taj-branded amenities and direct access to your private deck. Run a bath and watch the sun sink into the ocean before retiring to the day bed with some organic treats from the minibar. If you’re in need of some deeper therapy, a personal butler is on hand book you in for a traditional Ayurvedic treatment at the on-site Jiva Spa.
While there are sufficient and varied dining options available (the live teppanyaki station is a highlight), opting for an in-villa dinner is the way to go. Guests can either select dishes from an à la carte in-villa menu or enlist the talents of a resident chef to come and prepare a barbecue of marinated meats accompanied by fresh salads. This hideaway-within-a-hideaway experience is surely the stuff luxe castaway dreams are made of.
THE IMPORTANT BIT
What: Premium Indulgence Water Villa 126
Where: Vivanta by Taj Coral Reef, Hembadhu Island, Maldives
Price: from $910 per night