Authentically Maldivian: Milaidhoo Island Maldives

Opened in 2016, Milaidhoo Island Maldives is a boutique luxury resort set in the heart of Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Cleverly designed, this resort will make you feel as if you are miles away in complete seclusion. Each of the 50 villas - either fronting the beachside or set on stilts overwater - offer complete and utmost privacy.

Open the door to your luxury retreat: a lodge nestled between the palm trees, or a villa standing over the water. Each is Maldives-inspired and comes with thatched roofs, natural wooden floors, bespoke furniture and custom contemporary designs by local architect Mohammed Shafiq, who ensured that everything was in harmony with the surroundings. The focus is on spacious outdoor living, with sundecks complete with day beds and a private plunge pool. Light, airy and stylish, you're sure to find complete bliss here.

Once you are able to drag yourself away from the comfort of your luxurious villa, venture out into the island and explore all the different activities you can indulge in; three restaurants, a glittering main pool, a sandy-floored bar, sunset cruises and dolphin tours await.

Perfect for nature lovers, the island is encircled by its own coral reef and sits in a protected area, and is known to be a spectacular diving and snorkeling site. Designed for adults, the resort welcomes guests from the age of 9 and above, which is good news for travellers who wish to indulge in nothing but idle luxuries during their stay here. 

There are a number of non-motorised water sports guests can take part in such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding (SUPs), windsurfing, catamaran sailing and more. Milaidhoo lies close to Hanifaru Bay, a world-renowned UNESCO biosphere reserve where in season, guests can see the largest congregation of manta rays in the world. Also a hotspot for whale sharks, snorkeling with these peaceful ocean giants could truly be the experience of a lifetime. You could also take to the seas in Milaidhoo’s big-game fishing boat, expertly equipped with the latest gear - or, you could even hop on board a traditional Maldivian fishing boat and learn the local way to fish; by hand and line! 

After frolicking around in the sun, take a breather and relax at the Serenity Spa, set over-water and offering endless views of the sky and ocean. Choose from a number of holistic treatments and healing traditions of Africa, done using local herbs and plants. The spa also offers natural therapies by exclusive brands such as Elemis, TheraNaka and Coola. You can also take part in daily yoga or meditation sessions at the over-water yoga pavilion. 

The restaurants and bars in Milaidhoo are designed to appeal to the senses and provide excellent dining in informal settings. Ba’theli, the island’s signature over-water restaurant, is brilliantly crafted to resemble a traditional maldivian trading boat and sits on a floating lagoon, offering guests gourmet menus from the Maldives and different parts of Asia, with plenty of fine dining spectacles. The Shoreline Grill is a must for exquisite seafood and an entertaining teppanyaki table experience with the chef. The main restaurant, Ocean, is lively during the evening and an absolute delight for breakfast in the morning, with a buffet you can choose from. You will also be able to dine in-villa, though the outlets are usually open and available. The Compass Pool Bar is where you can spend your days kicking back and chilling by the infinity pool, cocktail in hand with an array of snacks you can indulge in.  

If you are looking for a taste of “the true Maldives”; to immerse yourself in Maldivian culture and unique experiences; Milaidhoo Island is the place to be!