Are these Maldives retreats the ultimate in island luxury?

Words: Agatha Zarzycki

Alila Kothaifaru Maldives

The setting: stripped-back sophistication amid natural beauty

This five-star private island retreat in northern Raa Atoll – a scenic 45-minute seaplane ride from Malé – is proof that blending in isn’t always a bad thing. Set across 11.2 hectares of dense tropical canopies (imagine banyan, sea hibiscus and almond trees), its 45 beachfront villas and 36 overwater villas are just steps from the sparkling shore and look on to a tranquil turquoise lagoon, where you may be lucky enough to spot manta rays, dolphins and turtles.

Spacious villas are all about peaceful, elegant minimalism, while open spaces keep your eyes on the prize: lush jungle, glass-like waters rippling in ribbons of blue and green and sunset skies that could be a watercolour painting. The perfect place to contemplate if it’s all real? From your own private pool or sun deck (with personalised service, of course).

Unforgettable moments: water and wellness wonders, cultural crazes and more

Now for a more practical question: are you in the mood for play or pampering? An abundance of adventure can be found at the resort’s Water Sports and Dive Centre, offering everything from paddleboarding to Padi scuba diving (there’s also a 24/hour fitness hub), while little travellers can stay entertained at Play Alila with supervised indoor and outdoor fun.

In a cultural frame of mind? The local-inspired experiences are a must, especially The Art of the Coconut, which combines storytelling with cooking, cocktail making and crafts. Then it’s time for relaxation (you’ve earned it) with a complimentary outdoor yoga session, a dip into the resort’s stunning infinity pool, or a spot of holistic healing at Spa Alila – perched above the forest canopy. Contemporary spins on ancient rituals include a luxurious cocoa, coffee and coconut scrub (no objections here).

Foodie delights: from boat-to-table BBQs to history-inspired cocktails

Matching the natural splendour here is no easy task, but the resort’s restaurants are an equal contender (yes, they really are that good). Among the many highlights is Seasalt, where Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences meet, and signature salt-baked fish dishes reign. Top tip: don’t miss the boat-to-table BBQ, part of the resort’s themed gastronomy nights each week. Then there’s Pibati Sul Mare, serving superb artisanal pizzas and pastas, and Umami for a cooking show of Japanese-inspired delectable seafood and Wagyu beef. And be sure to stop by adjoining Yakitori Bar, too.

Top off the epicurean enchantment at Mirus Bar, which serves up cocktails inspired by the region’s former spice trade routes and uses ingredients from the resort’s own spice garden. Our greatest obsession? The Mirus-infused martini (be warned: its local chili is not for the fainthearted) paired with a swoon-worthy sunset. For something truly special, take a five-minute boat ride to The Shack – on the resort’s private sandbank – and indulge in a gourmet picnic, sunset barbecue or candlelit dinner under the stars.

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Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

The setting: Maldivian-influenced luxury on the equator’s edge

One of the closest five-star resorts to the equator, Hadahaa’s unique location in ultra-remote southern Huvadhu Atoll means theatrical stargazing – expect a view of both hemispheres’ constellations – the fastest golden hours in the world (thanks to this being the widest part of Earth) and a vibrant underwater scene. This prismatic paradise of marine life encircles the entire island, so you can practically snorkel straight from the resort’s 51 boutique-style villas, which are surrounded by forest and decked out in Maldivian style (think local timber and stone). Just steps from the villas is the 360° award-winning house reef, a sanctuary for vibrant corals and diverse marine life. If you’re fortunate, you’ll catch a glimpse of reef sharks, turtles and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish in the crystal-clear waters.

Choose from beach villas featuring an outdoor terrazzo bathtub and rain shower just steps from powdery sands (we love the floor-to-ceiling windows inside, too). For next-level comfort, the Deluxe Beach Pool Villa spans an impressive 265sqm and has your own luxuriously large pool. Or for 180° views of sparkling sea from your private sun deck, there are the 115sqm overwater villas – our eyes are on the Sunset Overwater Beach Pool Villa (the plunge pool is reason alone to quit your day job).

Unforgettable moments: equator-elevated experiences, deserted island hopping and more

It’s one thing being just 34 miles north of the equator, but what if you could enjoy the rare chance to cross it by speed boat and enjoy an exquisite Champagne brunch at 0°00’00.00N? The resort can organise this one-of-a-kind experience, as well as a private island-hopping adventure, where unspoiled, silky sand shores and an iridescent Indian ocean can be savoured alongside a traditional Maldivian picnic (fresh fish, native fruit and the feeling of being blissfully away from it all are all on the menu).

Back at the resort, make the most of Maldivian magic with sunrise or sunset yoga (you can keep up your workout routine at the fitness centre too) and water sports such as kayaking. Keen to explore a little deeper? The Padi Divemaster course will prepare you to descend into a cathedral of colour. And just when you thought your day couldn’t possibly improve, there’s the spa’s Fini spiced poultice treatment, which cocoons you in the warmth of Maldivian spices.

Foodie delights: from barefoot BBQ to sushi in a seaside setting

What could be better than the resort’s one-of-a-kind location on the equator’s edge? Said location offering dining decadence (with all-inclusive options, to boot) in the form of a traditional beachside grill, an intimate Japanese restaurant poised over the glittering lagoon and vegan delights amid a Zen treehouse backdrop.

For barefoot luxury, freshly grilled seafood and prime cuts of meat, head to the swing chair-adorned tables set up on the beach at The Island Grill Restaurant. Meanwhile, the finest sushi and sashimi and more than ten types of sake are just as spellbinding at Koi. Herbivores will love the Treehouse, which serves a plant-based tasting menu (ingredients come from the resort’s organic garden and surrounding atoll). Now that’s how to live on the edge.

Book your holiday

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include a generous baggage allowance and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your Maldives holiday to Alila Kothaifaru Maldives or Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*

*Full balance due seven weeks before departure. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. See ba.com/deposits.