It’s no secret that the Maldives offers some of the most luxurious escapes that any discerning traveller can experience. From personalised service that grants every wish to sublime spa treatments that look out towards perfect turquoise waters, tropical island opulence is found at every corner of this enchanting archipelago. The island nation is also a leading light for sustainability tourism, thanks to a plethora of programmes that spotlight conservation and ecological innovations.

At the forefront of this pioneering tourism movement is Cora Cora Maldives. Plumped pretty in the gorgeous Raa Atoll, the five-star resort boasts The Green Globe Certification since 2022—an accolade bestowed on properties which display outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability—thanks to the implementation of a comprehensive plan.

Within its 100 beautifully appointed villas that woo guests upon arrival with their traditional designs and bright colour palette, there are subtle nods to the resort’s eco-friendly initiatives. Zero waste shampoo, conditioner and body wash are found in the chic bathrooms while hydration comes in the form of water that has been filtered, mineralised and bottled onsite—branded bottles are banned from the island. When you feel like a dip in the villa’s private pool, you can enjoy a chlorine-free swim thanks to a partnership with ENVIROSWIM, which has eliminated the compound from the water.

Leaving the sanctuary behind to explore the rest of the island, you are invited to take your pick from an array of activities that embrace the resort’s sustainability touch. Try your hand at windsurfing or paddleboarding, where the equipment is composed of recycled and biodegradable materials, or learn about the property’s conservation efforts that include supporting the Atoll Marine Centre for turtle rehabilitation projects and the heartwarming story of Cora, an injured Olive Ridley sea turtle that the resort rescued and continues to sponsor to this day.

Should you prefer to go beneath the surface, you will discover a world of vibrant marine life and the resort’s coral restoration project. Working in tandem with Mars Assisted Reef Restoration System, facilitated by Mars Global, Cora Cora Maldives has established itself as a centre of excellence for coral restoration. Focusing on two key locations on the island, the project invites you to immerse yourself in the world of conservation with coral planting activities, attending marine biology workshops or simply admiring one of nature’s greatest sights, a rejuvenated coral reef. A five-year restoration programme, its completion will contribute to the Maldives becoming the second largest coral restoration site for Mars Global, just behind Australia’s legendary Great Barrier Reef.