The Insider
Best of the rest As well as the most
frequently visited atolls, there are plenty of
spectacular, lesser-known isles worthy of attention. The 56 islands that comprise Dhaalu Atoll
are surrounded by azure waters that house an abundance of marine life for snorkellers and divers to get close to with fewer crowds to contend with, including sharks, turtles and rays. In terms of accommodation, The St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is a showstopper, complete with a private lagoon and dreamy Iridium Spa. A little
farther north sits Faafu Atoll, a small cluster of
islands whose relatively unknown status makes for unspoilt beaches and dive sites. Its secluded location offers peace and quiet in abundance and, in addition to a collection of small guesthouses,
there is currently only one private island property – Filitheyo Island Resort, home to 125 spacious villas, two restaurants and a spa. Separated by a two-mile-wide channel, the proximity of these atolls mean they’re
linked in their traditions and culture, making for exciting day trips to uninhabited islands and fascinating historical sites.
NOONU ATOLL Recommend for: Snorkelling
Home to Edu Faru National Marine Park, the country’s only national park, the waters that envelop Noonu are swarming with a rainbow of sea life. Snorkellers can set out in search of spinner dolphins, snappers, fusiliers and turtles, or simply explore the colourful coral reefs and lagoons that showcase the atoll’s raw marine beauty. Plus, Noonu’s dive sites such as Orimas Thila and Christmas Tree Rock offer visitors the chance to glimpse grey reef sharks CPF IWKVCTƂUJ 6JG CVQNN KU CNUQ JQOG VQ C smattering of stunning resorts perfectly located for snorkelling and diving, including Noku Maldives, Cheval Blanc Randheli and Velaa Private Island Maldives.
VAAVU ATOLL Recommend for: Adrenaline junkies
Vaavu is home to the longest continuous reef in the Maldives, thanks to a 34-mile stretch of unbroken coral that’s punctuated by a series of channels, which attract groups of sharks, eagle rays and barracudas. From the reef’s edge, experienced divers can venture into the overhangs that extend almost 30 metres below the surface or head to the threshold of the channel for a chance of spotting hammerhead sharks. Due to the atoll’s location, there are also plenty of spots that are sheltered from strong currents, making it ideal for beginner divers. Vaavu is less developed than other atolls so there are fewer luxury resorts to choose from, but one of the best is Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives, which boasts 90 bungalows and suites, all with views of the pristine waters and some with private plunge pools.
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ASPIRETRAVELCLUB.CO.UK THE INSIDER NOVEMBER 2024
CREDIT: Oliver Fly
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