Close your eyes and picture this. Pristine white sands melding perfectly with sapphire blue waters, spectacular thatched-roofed villas sheltering under towering palm trees, and endless days of sunshine. There isn’t a more picturesque setting for an island escape.
Nestled in the heart of the South Malé Atoll lies the hidden gem of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi. As you disembark from the luxury yacht transfer, choose from one of 119 villas spread across three verdant, private islands, each with a pool, swing daybeds, dining gazebos, in-water loungers and of course, out-of-this-world views of the Indian Ocean.
Select a Beach Villa to be moments away from unspoilt sand. Luxuriate in the pool or bask underneath the sun to the soundtrack of swaying leaves in the gentle island breeze. For the adventurous, a Reef Villa is a stone’s throw from snorkelling and diving opportunities, enabling guests to explore and discover the natural marine life that inhabit the warm waters.
Perched above the crystal-clear ocean, Over Water Villas blend modern sophistication with island charm. Replete with a sprawling terrace, guests can enjoy dinner served by the property’s master chefs on the private deck, while savouring starlit skies. But for total exclusivity, place yourself in one of two Stella Maris Ocean Villa duplexes. Ideal for a romantic getaway, the 565 square-metre retreats are only accessible by boat and feature a barbecue station, direct ocean access and a private infinity pool with overwater hammocks.
Home to 11 distinct restaurants and bars, gastronomes have a plethora of culinary experiences in which to immerse themselves on the island. Those with a craving for exquisite Japanese cuisine should head to the globally acclaimed, Zuma Maldives, for an evening of traditional Izakaya-style eating and drinking. For a taste of Aussie barbecue delights, visit The Ledge by Dave Pynt, where wood-fired flavour sensations take centre stage.
Elevate your dining to a new level by taking a seat at one of the seven hand-crafted bamboo pods at Terra. A romantic treetop venue where guests are treated to a delectable, bespoke seven-course menu featuring the likes of foie gras parfait, Hokkaido scallop and Miyazaki beef fillet. And for a picture-perfect ending to any day, sip on a cocktail while gazing out over the Indian Ocean at the magnificent susnet at beachfront lounge, Amber.
Enhance your wellbeing at the Spa in Maldives where wellness journeys begin with a consultation with a wellness concierge who will curate a personalised programme. Place yourself in the hands of expert spa therapists and melt into a realm of blissful serenity with treatments inspired by the natural elements: earth, water, fire and metal.
Rejuvenation achieved, take advantage of the property’s exciting activities. Swing by the tennis and padel courts for some friendly competition or engage in a seemingly never-ending list of water sports and escapades including jet skiing, parasailing and wreck diving. And don’t forget to immortalise the stay with a professional photoshoot. Each villa enjoys a one-hour complimentary photography session where you can keep your memories fresh until you return, or become a supermodel for the day with a billowing dress photoshoot experience.
From now until December 20, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is inviting guests to book the Live Unforgettable offer and enjoy 25 per cent off on villa stays for a minimum of four nights, or a 30 per cent discount for a seven-night or more stay. There’s also a complimentary shared yacht transfer to and from the island, alongside a complimentary three-course dinner experience at Tasting Table as well as dine-around credit of Dhs380 (US$105) per adult, per night at Li Long, Glow, Yasmeen and The Ledge by Dave Pynt. A foodie’s paradise, indeed.
