MALDIVES `


On our final evening, we dine by candlelight with our feet in the sand, the ocean as our soundtrack and a canopy of stars above


Àoom ÜiÌh n>ÌÕÀ>l li}hÌ° Ƃ Ãh>`i` ÌiÀÀ>Vi oÕÌwÌÌi` ÜiÌh sunloungers gives way to a plunge pool and staircase leading directly into the sea. One afternoon, I take a dip in Ìhi L>lmÞ l>}oon >n` `iÃVoÛiÀ > yÕÀÀÞ ov livi hi`in} beneath the surface. Streams of sunlight pierce the water, V>ÌVhin} on Ìhi ÃV>lià ov `>ÀÌin} wÃh] m>kin} ÌhiiÀ iliVÌÀiV blue and bold violet scales impossibly more vibrant. In contrast to these ultra-modern new additions, 53 of


the resort’s original villas remain. Their pitched, thatched roofs, timber cladding and earthy interiors offer a typically more Maldivian aesthetic, which some clients may prefer. They are charming, if a little dated. While these options don’t come with private pools, many offer outdoor whirlpools and baths, and the overwater villas each include a hammock strung above the lagoon – a quiet perch for idle daydreaming or even a night under the stars.


FROM TOP: Teppanyaki grill at the Madivaru Silk Restaurant; sunset cruise; Beach Villa interior


Elevated experience Ƃmon} Ìhi `iÛiÀÃiwi` VhoiVi ov ÀiÃÌ>ÕÀ>nÌà >n` L>ÀÃ] wni-`inin} ÛinÕi ,>>lhÕ ià > hi}hli}hÌ° njoÞ > «Ài-`inniÀ aperitif at the Champagne Pavilion as the sun dips below the horizon, before indulging in a menu of fresh seafood and grilled meats. Meanwhile, Madivaru Silk Restaurant takes its cues from the historic Silk Road, serving a globe- trotting medley of dishes, from Italian beef carpaccio and Moroccan lamb tagine to a classic pad Thai. Guests can also opt for an intimate teppanyaki experience, where waves of sushi and sashimi are expertly prepared before their eyes. In addition to the à la carte offerings, Dhonveli – the resort’s relaxed main buffet restaurant – keeps things fresh with a daily rotating menu of themed cuisines. My favourite spot for a languid afternoon is Thundi Bar, which spills onto the resort’s pristine sandbank, dotted with towering palms and sunloungers. Unlike some of the Maldives’ newer, man-made islands, Veligandu is entirely natural – and it shows. The island supports a rich and


70 ASPIRE JUNE 2025


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