The Maldives resort for everyone, with everything

A chilled beach break or an active adventure? A family get-together or a couple’s escape? At this five-star, all-inclusive resort on Maldives’ Dhaalu Atoll, you don’t have to choose. Angsana Velavaru, which means ‘turtle island’ in Dhivehi, is a 40-minute seaplane journey from Malé airport, where guests can start the holidaying early with complimentary access to the Vilu Business Lounge. Then it’s off to your private paradise ringed by icing-sugar sands and the aquamarine Indian ocean.

One island is not enough to contain the enchantment, and this retreat is split into two – the main island has 79 Beachfront Villas, while 34 InOcean Villas are just one kilometre away – the first standalone overwater collection in the Maldives. That means the only decision you’ll need to make is whether you prefer shoreline splendour with a personal garden, or stilted-sea-leg magic with an all-yours plunge pool (there’s a free boat shuttle every hour). Even better, split your stay between them to enjoy the best of both worlds. And, with 101 activities on offer, there’s no shortage of paradisiacal play. Here’s what’s not to miss.

Aquaphile adventures

There’s marine magic, and then there’s marine magic on a private lagoon that’s so secluded and unspoilt it has one of the best-preserved reefs in the Maldives. Here, a kaleidoscope of colours shimmers beneath turquoise waters – you may be lucky enough to spot blue-and-yellow angelfish and silky stingrays, among others. There are an impressive 30 dive sites nearby and PADI-certified instructors to teach and guide you, while snorkelling is a mere matter of walking down the steps of your InOcean Villa, and into your backyard that is the Indian Ocean. Those after a dose of adrenaline can speed across waves on a banana boat or jet skis or take a thrilling tube ride. Prefer to splash around at the resort? The main pool is stunning, has a kids’ section and overlooks the ocean.

Foodie flair

From the freshest sashimi, beef bibimbap and Thai-style lobster curry at overwater Funa to Mediterranean-inspired plates and Australian grain-fed Wagyu at elegant Azzurro to a private beach barbeque underneath a star-strewn sky, Angsana Velavaru is proof that privacy can be plentiful, even when you’re dining. Meanwhile, Kaani’s themed dining nights offer something for every taste and mood, from Pasta Sundays to Mongolian Saturdays and Maldivian Fridays, with a blissful blend of the freshest seafood, spices and coconut. Craving comforting classics? Kuredhi pool bar’s American beef burger and prosciutto pizza will hit the spot. The cocktails are just as international and enticing, including Azzurro’s Singapore Sling, and Kuredhi’s dessert in a glass in the form of a spiced apple-crumble martini.

Elevated experiences

If ocean splendour and gastronomic gems aren’t enough, there’s exciting entertainment for everyone here, too. The culturally curious can join local fishermen or discover the art of Maldivian palm leaf weaving, starry-eyed souls can set sail on a Champagne-fuelled sunset cruise to swoon over the full moon – and each other – on a nighttime boat trip (there’s good reason why the resort won Best Honeymoon Destination at the Travel Media Awards). Come nighttime, Kuredhi pool bar is the place to be, with everything from local Maldivian Boduberu performances, movie nights, DJs, live bands and karaoke. For some liquid courage, the Walk in the Tropics, crafted from dark and coconut rum plus amaretto, will make singing in public a walk in the park.

Family fun

Angsana Velavaru gets kids. The Beachfront Family Pool Villa is made up of two interconnecting lodgings – secret passageway style – and its two tropical gardens are so spacious and serene that children will feel as if they’re in their own fantastical world. There’s a dedicated kids’ pool and diving lessons for those eight and over, but the ultimate draw is the Rangers’ Club, which even adults will envy. Young explorers can participate in an island tour, a treasure hunt and the most epic game of hide and seek, little artists can get creative at playdough sculpting and sand painting, while mat making offers a glimpse of local life. Keen to do something with the entire clan? Sailing a kite in the Maldivian breeze together isn’t something anyone will forget in a hurry.

Wholesome wellness

If there’s evidence that the perfect balance of endorphin-boosting euphoria and rejuvenating relaxation exists, Angsana Velavaru is it. Begin your morning with a sunrise power walk before hitting the resort gym, where views of lush landscapes are sure to keep you going. Those looking for active group activities can try aqua aerobics at Kuredhi pool or participate in futsal matches and volleyball games. Then it’s time to treat yourself at the spa (you’ve earned it), with indulgences such as calming, orange-infused baths, sumptuous all-natural body scrubs and stress-melting massages. There are even tailored pampering sessions for couples and mothers and daughters, plus a special spa just for kids. Where do we sign up?

Book your holiday

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include a generous baggage allowance per person and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your Maldives holiday now with a low deposit, and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*

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