Dreaming of a luxury island getaway in 2023? Let’s face it, there’s nowhere quite as idyllic as the Maldives. And the home-from-home all-natural island resort of Nova Maldives, located in the Maldives’ renowned South Ari Atoll and just a 25-minute, scenic seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport, is the perfect pick for your stay, having enjoyed a spectacular season since it first began welcoming guests back in October.
The latest addition to the Pulse Hotels and Resorts Group portfolio, Nova Maldives boasts 76 stunning villas, offering guests a laid-back, soulful island destination that is designed to spark joy. More than simply a lifestyle holiday destination, Nova aims to provide a place where guests can live in the moment, make lasting memories, and fully immerse themselves in the heart of the resort’s modern all-inclusive community concept and the vibrant Nova community – and suffice it to say that it has achieved exactly that.
This dreamy resort should be at the top of your list when planning your next luxury getaway – and here are six reasons why.
Explore the underwater world
Water lovers are spoilt for choice with the extensive range of thrilling water sport activities on offer, a chance to explore the secrets of the underwater world and the beauty of the marine life surrounding Nova’s private island. The South Ari Atoll is known for its spectacular diving sites and there are more than 40 dive sites within a 30-minute boat ride of the island.
Guests can dive and snorkel with the world-class PADI Aquaholics team and the resident marine biologist who will guide them to and through the dramatic underwater topography of overhangs and canyons and expect to see everything from manta rays, eagle rays, and reef sharks to blueline snappers and a plethora of colourful fish. So, if you consider yourself an underwater enthusiast then here, you’ll feel like you’re in paradise.
The close-by SAMPA area (South Ari Marine Protected Area) is renowned for its whale sharks – the gentle giants of the ocean – and is the only place in the world where it is possible to dive and snorkel with them all year round. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss out on, and with additional water-based activities including glass-bottom kayaking, sailing, jet skiing, kitesurfing, SUP, and sunset fishing; there are so many ways to discover the blue around Nova.
Rejuvenate your soul
Perched overwater, against a dream-like backdrop of an azure blue lagoon, the Eskape Spa at Nova provides guests with the chance to fully rejuvenate, reset and restore. A range of holistic spa treatments using organic products aims to stimulate the mind, body, and soul, and after a visit here, you’ll feel brand new.
The three treatment rooms, traditional Thai Sala, yoga pavilion and relaxation areas take guests on a journey through a world of wellness experiences that have been curated to re-connect and awaken the senses. From treatments for expectant mothers to complete head-to-toe reset therapies on the beach and from romantic couple massages to massage lessons for couples, there is an opportunity for everyone to rejuvenate their soul and mindfully restore at Nova, so whatever you’re looking for, there’s a treatment for you.
Get acquainted with Maldivian culture
If you think that it’s impossible to experience authentic Maldivian culture whilst staying at a lavish resort like Nova then think again, because here, you can fully immerse yourself in it. Whether through cultural interactions with locals or contemporary creative Maldivian arts via the KULA Art Initiative – of which Nova is a proud supporter – there are plenty of opportunities to learn about local traditions and lifestyle.
KULA means ‘colours’ in Dhivehi, and the initiative supports contemporary creative arts in the Maldives. It aims to open up horizons for the local art community, providing opportunities for artists to present their work including local crafts, fashion, photography, videography, and music.
Enjoy opulent accommodation
Nova offers 76 spacious beach and water villas with private terraces, Jacuzzis, private pools, and endless Indian Ocean views. Abundant with custom-made furniture, neutral whites, warm materials and natural light, the pared-back and minimalist interiors deliver a truly relaxing ambience for guests. Each room also offers state-of-the-art tech including Apple TV with streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Prime) and high-speed Wi-Fi.
A foodie’s paradise
The resort offers exquisite food and great company at each of its five bars and restaurants. At all-day dining spot Soul kitchen, flavours of traditional Maldivian cuisine and fresh tastes from all around the world are the order of the day, while at Flames, the sizzle of the grill is the backdrop against which you can enjoy smoky, sweet and savoury flavours of freshly grilled fish, seafood and meat.
Fancy some seafood? Then head to Nova’s overwater teppanyaki restaurant, Mizu, where you can sample a mouth-watering signature menu of fresh ocean delights including lobster, scallops and salmon as well as sushi, Sashimi and Wagyu beef, all whilst enjoying breath-taking Indian Ocean views that expand into the distance.
And, for a more informal get-together or a fast meal (vegan options available), Wink provides guests with good soul food and music. With fun activities and party nights, it’s the perfect place to unwind with a handcrafted cocktail or two.
On that note, no luxury island holiday is complete without a cocktail (or mocktail) in hand, and throughout the day, you can sip on delicious tropical-inspired delights.
Celebrate your big day in a dream setting
Do you dream of getting married on powder-soft white sands with sparkling crystalline seas and gently swaying palm trees in the background? That dream can come to life at Nova. The resort offers a selection of beautifully curated packages to choose from where everything is organised by a dedicated wedding coordinator. So, if you’re looking for a truly memorable setting in which to celebrate your big day, then it really doesn’t get much more magical than this Maldivian paradise.
Factbox
Address: Nova Maldives, C/O Pulse Hotels & Resorts, M. Kaneeru Villa, Orchid Magu, Male
Phone: +960 66 88 777
Email: reservations@nova-maldives.com
Website: nova-maldives.com
All imagery supplied by Nova Maldives
