Anantara Maldives Resort

The Ultimate Barefoot Luxury Paradise Getaway

By Kenza Salahdine

Considered to be one of the world’s most exclusive destinations, the Maldives are a string of coral islands in the Indian Ocean. This paradise of an archipelago is surrounded by crystal clear turquoise lagoons, stunning marine life and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The air of tranquility enveloping the archipelago makes the Maldives the ideal place for those trying to take a break from the real world – especially after the difficult year we all have been through. It’s time to focus on wellness and well-being!

Your Anantara stay starts off stylishly, even before you get to your destination. In order to reach the Maldives luxury resort island of Anantara Kihavah, guests arriving at Velana International Airport, located in the North Male Atoll near the capital of Malé, are met by a unique transfer service. Guests even have access to a private lounge near the airport. The villa resorts escort visitors by seaplane, followed by a speedboat transfer directly to their island. Admiring the picture-perfect archipelago from a Maldivian bird’s eye is just the start of a posh trip to paradise.

With a warm greeting comprised of local music, fresh coconuts, flowers and positive energy, guests can expect a unique and deluxe staff welcome. Located on the Baa Atoll in Unesco World Biosphere Reserve, which protects and encourages diverse coral ecosystems, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, a 15-acre island sanctuary, invites you to imagine your own barefoot luxury paradise. Savor the luxury of space in one of the 80 private pool beach villas or over water villas they offer.

Travel the world through your taste buds without even leaving the island. At this Anantara oasis, you can indulge in one of the world’s most unique dining experiences beneath the ocean’s surface at SEA, the world’s first underwater wine cellar and restaurant which offers gourmet grub for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Keep your eyes open as you dine – while you dive into the crystal-clear waters with mantas, turtles and other marine beauty which surrounds you – a true feast for your eyes.

After a long and paradisiacal day tanning on the beach, enjoy drinks at Sky Bar while watching magnificent Maldivian sunsets. Expand your view of the galaxy, as Sky is the Maldives’ only over water observatory and luxury cocktail bar. End the delectable day deliciously with an Italian experience at Manzaru, which serves up the largest collection of gins in the Maldives, plus freshly made pasta and other Italian specialties overlooking the pool, under the stars. You also have the option to spice things up with Asian haute cuisine at Spice.

Embark on an elevated journey at the most exclusive and luxurious resort, Naladhu Private Island, located on the edge of a beautiful lagoon in South Malé Atoll, and offering 20 private houses – all with a private swimming pool. From your enticing welcome to 24/7 dedicated butler service and even personalized bikes at your doorstep, you are guaranteed to have a magical stay in the Maldives.

Relax and treat yourself to some spa serenity in the privacy of your own villa or at the Anantara Spas nearby sister islands, which offers a selection of special treatments that will rejuvenate your skin. You can also bathe outdoors while enjoying the tranquility of the island, creating a peaceful atmosphere amidst paradise.

Sail over the Indian Ocean for a dolphin sunset cruise while enjoying your drink and canapes and then wake up to a unique floating breakfast, delivered to your private pool in your Ocean House. You will have the luxury of either selecting from The Living Room’s seasonal menu or ask the chef to surprise you and prepare your personal favorites. Enjoy lunch or dinner at The Living Room, overlooking the beautiful and private lagoon where the chef tailors the cuisine to the guests’ preferences while using fresh, seasonal products. Become immersed into the Maldives dining experience at Sea.Fire.Salt, where you will find freshly caught fish along with Australian imported cuts.

Open the door of Anantara Veli Resort & Spa for a tropical and luxurious adult-only experience on this private beach while staying in one of the over water bungalows or ocean pool bungalows. Take in the ambiance while treating yourself to international favorites and live cooking classes at 73 Degrees overlooking blue the lagoon. You can also surprise your partner and indulge a culinary journey on the beach at Dining by Design. This unique dining experience is the ultimate romantic set-up, complete with a private chef, butler and sommelier at your service. Paradise just got even more palatable!

Uncover the secrets of the ocean and sign up for a shark snorkeling adventure. Sail to remote sites to find shy nurse sharks and even swim with them. Emilia Fulgido instructed us on protecting the teeming life of the ocean but also revealed to us the secrets of the deep – the best kept secret of all – staying at the Anantara resorts in the Maldives.