When it comes to the world’s dreamiest holiday destinations, it doesn’t get much better than the Maldives. Made up of 26 atolls and over 1,000 coral islands, this paradisiacal Indian Ocean hideaway is known for its pristine, white sand beaches, crystalline waters teeming with marine life, and its lavish five-star hotels and resorts, so it’s perhaps little wonder that it’s become a playground for the rich and famous.
Not all resorts, though, are created equal, and in the Maldives, they really are a cut above the rest. And, as the sun rises over the Indian ocean on August 1, a new hotspot has opened its doors for the first time on a lush private island in the breath-taking Raa Atoll that is certain to blow you away.
Just a short, 45-minute journey from Malé International Airport, Amari Raaya Maldives is the newest luxury destination resort that aims to celebrates life’s best moments, offering warm and friendly service (that Thai-style hospitality the Amaari brand is known for), well-appointed rooms, a sumptuous spa and a variety of mouth-watering dining options that foodies will adore.
Let’s take a look inside.
Lavish accommodation
Comprising 187 guest rooms and villas, guests at the Amari Raaya Maldives can choose from one of nine distinct styles of accommodation, depending on what sort of vibe they are seeking. Each one is as much a relaxing sanctuary as the next, but style and personality is where they differ.
There are a selection of spectacular private beach villas and overwater villas inspired by the natural environment to choose from, each offering direct beach or ocean access. Think natural materials and contemporary Maldivian architecture, with all villas enjoying unmatched views over the glittering Indian ocean.
If a private slice of beach is what you’ve been dreaming of, then a beach villa is a must, and promises to make you feel like a castaway in paradise – you can choose from a private, pool or interconnected family villa. Or, if spotting marine life is your thing, then a stilted overwater villa puts you in a prime viewing position for spying the nurse sharks, stingrays and other ocean animals that frequent the Raa Atoll.
Surrounded by untouched reefs, verdant nature and swaying tropical palms at every turn, all accommodation types provide a unique place to escape to and make moments that you’ll cherish forever – and guests can even opt to split their time between beach and ocean villas to get the full island experience.
Decadent dining experiences
Amari Raaya Maldives takes guests on a culinary adventure like no other, with eight dining options offering vibrant flavors and unique dining experiences across the island. From beach barbecues and seafood feasts to romantic fine dining dinners under the stars, the resort promises a gastronomic journey you’ll never forget – and the village square garden parties are something you won’t want to miss.
Highlights include the Amaya Food Gallery, where you can enjoy flavourful Asian and international cuisine, and Ampers&nd, where you’ll find mouthwatering Pan Asian dishes served up in a romantic setting. At Pregolino, Italian inspiration prevails, and is the place to head to for a casual and relaxed meal – and there are several snack bars, as well as a cafe and an ice cream, juice and cocktail bus that tours the island each day in a bid to keep guests feeling thoroughly refreshed.
The resort’s concierge is on hand to create bespoke dining experiences on request, too – and nothing is too much trouble, whatever the occasion.
A haven of recreation, relaxation and decadent dining
The Village Square is the island’s beating heart, and the place where much of the resort’s action unfolds. Each day, guests can head here to relax over a coffee and a light bite at the cafe, enjoy a spot of retail therapy at the boutique, or head to the opulent Maai Spa to relax and unwind with a sumptuous massage or another rejuvenating treatment of their choice.
Ocean adventures
If you’re the adventurous type, then the good news is that it’s not all rest and relaxation at the Amaari Raya – that is, unless you want it to be. The resort offers a variety of excursions and activities to take your pick from. Guests can journey into the open ocean to spot vibrant marine life – including whale sharks and manta rays, if the season is right – and if you’re keen to really spend some time at one with the ocean then PADI diving courses are available to book at the resort, too.
If snorkelling and diving aren’t your thing, then there are plenty of other things to keep guests occupied besides – from non-motorised watersports like paddle boarding and kayaking, to archery, zip lining and more. There’s a state-of-the-art fitness centre where guests can head to to keep up their exercise routine, too, as well as sociable sports like mini golf, paddle tennis, and indoor and outdoor play areas to keep children entertained.
The castaway experience
A stay at the Amari Raaya Maldives is like living a real life castaway experience – albeit a far more luxurious version. Each element of the resort and the island is interwoven with the captivating tale of Seb, a shipwrecked artist who found solace on the island and made it his home, and the narrative is one that underpins the entire resort experience, with each part of the Amaari Raya playing a role in retelling Seb’s extraordinary journey.
As guests wander through the island, they’ll spot reminders and clues about Seb’s life, including his Art and Crafts studio, the hauntingly beautiful wreck of his ship, and watchtowers transformed into private dining and stargazing venues – so don’t forget to look out for them as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty and five-star experiences the resort has to offer.
A commitment to sustainability
As is so important in a paradise location like the Maldives, Amari Raaya Maldives recognises the importance of preserving the natural beauty that surrounds it, and strives to do just that. That’s why guests will notice that the resort is dedicated to sustainability, responsible practices, and ultimately, protecting the island for generations to come. The added bonus? If you choose to stay here yourself, then you can rest assured that you’ve made a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice.
A dream getaway
With anticipation building for the grand opening of Amari Raaya Maldives on 1st August, this dream resort is certain to fill up fast during its first season – and promising such an extraordinary escape in the most beautiful of locations, it’s hardly surprising. Offering the utmost in rest, relaxation and all out luxury, with opulent facilities and amenities as well as service that is second to none, it really is set to be the whole package – so book yourself a villa now and prepare to enjoy a getaway to remember for all the right reasons.
Factbox
Address: Kudakurathu Island, Maldives
Phone: +960 400-1400
Website: amari.com/raaya-maldives
All imagery credit: Amari Raaya Maldives
