Indulge us for a second: Close your eyes, pull yourself away from the daily grind, and imagine your ideal Spring getaway. If you’re picturing yourself at one of the most exclusive resorts in the world, sitting on white sands surrounded by crystal blue waters all while receiving unparalleled service, it’s quite possible your mind brought you to Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi.
Situated in one of the most beautiful, sought-after spots on earth, the award-winning Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, which opened in 2019, offers bespoke treatment and unforgettable experiences just a 45-minute yacht journey from Velana International Airport, and it deserves a closer look as you consider your last-minute escape for your upcoming holiday.
Let’s look a bit closer at the property, shall we? At the resort, guests can choose from expansive Beach, Reef and Overwater villas, which span three interconnected private islands, each set atop the Indian Ocean. The one, two and three-bedroom villas boast endless indoor and outdoor space, with private infinity pools, daybeds, dining gazebos, in-water lounges and complimentary bicycles for island exploration. For the ultimate in luxury, guests are assigned a personal concierge who will anticipate every need while at the resort—removing the usual stress of a holiday abroad.
If, like us, you’re a bit of a foodie, rest assured that Waldorf Astoria has brought its signature culinary expertise to the Maldives, with guests able to choose from 11 celebrated dining experiences, including the world-renowned contemporary Japanese izakaya Zuma, set to open by summer, or Terra, a unique dining experience featuring bamboo pods set high amongst the trees.
The resort’s wellness sanctuary is typical of Waldorf Astoria’s elevated nature, while also fitting their surroundings, offering holistic treatments with a bespoke approach. The recent addition of the Aqua Wellness Centre features the most elaborate hydrotherapy pool in the Maldives.
Designed in zones, the hydrotherapy pool uses a jet bath, air jets, shower jets, and a massage lounge with varying levels of intensity and water temperature intended to ease muscle tension, boost the immune system, increase blood circulation, speed up metabolism and improve deep sleep quality.
If you’re planning a family trip, this is certainly not a property only catering to one generation—there’s a nearly endless list of activities built to ensure that all ages are taken care of, with activities ranging from water sports activities, exploring the ocean’s marine life, playing a game of padel tennis or traversing the island’s white sand beaches by bicycle.
If you’re travelling with young ones, the Stars Club, a dedicated children’s club, offers an exciting water park area along with enriching activities for your little stars. Club Nova, the teens club, provides a cool hangout for those who are ready to enjoy their very own Maldivian experience away from their parents.
If you’re looking for a romantic retreat, the property will offer you additional privacy, settling you and your partner into one of two Stella Maris Ocean Villas for an intimate getaway as spacious as the open ocean that surrounds you and only accessible by boat.
Inspired by the Latin name for Star of the Sea used by sailors to navigate the oceans in the bygone era, Stella Maris features striking design elements inspired by the tapestry of the night sky mixed with art deco black and gold details reminiscent of the original Waldorf Astoria New York lobby. These duplex villas offer ceilings so high and a space so open, you’ll melt into the backdrop of the deep blue.
If you’re after absolute seclusion, Ithaafushi – The Private Island by Waldorf Astoria is your exclusive 32,000-square meter private island. With space for only 24 guests, you’ll find a three-bedroom beach villa, two-bedroom overwater villa and four-bedroom residence, plus five swimming pools, an entertainment club house, overwater spa, gym, padel tennis and a team of dedicated chefs and personal concierges.
Find more here or call +960 400 0300.