It’s no secret that the Maldives is having a moment this year. And I’ve fully bought into the hype. I knew the endless clear blue waters and white sandy beaches were unrivalled by many other far-flung places, but a visit to InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort did not disappoint.
So, when given the opportunity, I was first in the queue at check in for the 11-hour flight from London’s Heathrow to the capital, Malè. After this there was a 45-minute seaplane journey to the stunning InterContinental Resort.
Much to my surprise, the pilot was in casual shorts and flip-flops — but what else do wear when you’re working in 30-degree plus temperatures every day? Within moments we were flying through and then above the clouds, passing countless small private islands.
The Maldives, on first impression, was breathtaking. We were heading to paradise.
Where?
The five-star InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is set on a private island on the southernmost tip of the Raa Atoll, a chain of 88 islands.
The resort, which commands unspoilt views of the Indian Ocean, is home to the Manta Trust, a research organisation working to protect the incredible manta rays that live in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island.
It’s nestled close to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the programme set up to foster the harmonious relationship between people and nature for sustainable development. The InterContinental Maldives says sustainability is a” non-negotiable” and it is at the core of everything they do.
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What is the vibe?
Glamorous and super friendly. We arrived by sea taxi and were greeted by staff dressed in crisp white uniforms who performed a welcome ceremony with Maldivian drums worthy of The White Lotus opening credits. They do this for every group on arrival and departure, making you feel incredibly special.
The staff are charming and friendly and go out of their way to cater to your every need. Even the grumpiest of guests would leave with a smile on their face. It’s a tropical utopia.
And little wonder. The resort is 250,000 square metres of sheer paradise. There are only 81 rooms, so it never feels overrun or busy, and you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity as you make the most of the facilities.
Each guest is given a resort bicycle for the duration of their stay — you can leave it unlocked outside your villa, a restaurant or even on the beach and it will still be there waiting for you on your return.
The sound of wildlife fills the air as you cycle to dinner, while black tip sharks circle the edges of the shoreline and a school of dolphins’ frolic in the lagoon.
The whole island is a serene escape from the daily grind and ideal for relaxation, rejuvenation and every kind of (non-motorised) water sport. It’s full of couples, honeymooners and a few families ready to unwind. It seems to run on good vibes.
Which room?
Staying on the island obviously comes at a cost. Those with a big budget can stay in one of the six incredible residences. They each have two or three bedrooms with a kitchen, dining room and living spaces, making them the perfect choice to host that (big) holiday with your super-wealthy extended family.
For a more affordable option, there’s a choice of luxury villas. Some are on the lagoon while others are over the water, allowing you to see the sun rise or set over the Indian Ocean.
Staying in the one-bedroom sunset lagoon pool villa was an unforgettable experience. Spread over two floors, this stylish, light and spacious villa was pure luxury. The elevated master bedroom has views of the Indian Ocean on one side and the lagoon on the other, while the open-air bathroom means you can sit in the deep tub and watch the seaplanes arrive and while washing away the day’s suncream. There’s also a terrace and balcony where you can watch the (small) world go by.
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For those lazy mornings, when you don’t have the energy to jump on your bike and cycle to the restaurant for breakfast, there’s room service. The luxurious floating breakfast experience served in your pool is a must, and it can all be ordered via the in-house app.
But you need an appetite bigger than the black tip sharks as there’s enough food to feed a small army. Fresh pastries, tropical fruits, eggs cooked to order, and wellness smoothies can all be enjoyed while you savour your first meal of the day in the beautiful surroundings of your villa.
The room also includes private lounge access, daily continental breakfast, all-day refreshments, evening cocktails and canapés.
Food and drink
On this small island, you’re not short on options for dinner, as it has seven different restaurants. Enjoy the ocean-inspired delights of the Fish Market, eat breakfast, lunch and dinner at Café Umi (with a dress code defined as ‘island chic’), or try the Mediterranean-influenced masterpieces at The Lighthouse. This was my favourite. Dining under the stars next to the incredible landmark was a sheer culinary and visual delight.
You can also take in 360-degree Indian Ocean views from the very top of the lighthouse before dinner and marvel at the beautiful setting.
If you’re feeling flush and want to elevate your taste buds, you can opt for The Teppanyaki Experience, where the skilled chefs treat guests to a live culinary performance. They expertly prepare Japanese-inspired dishes on a hot iron griddle in front of you, with each course paired with a glass of wine chosen by the resort’s sommelier.
For wine connoisseurs, there’s an extra treat in store at The Wine Cellar, which offers a selection of wines from around the world, carefully chosen to complement the resort's ambience.
Extracurricular
There’s so much on offer aside from beach chilling opportunities at the InterContinental, including every kind of water sport. You can take off slowly into the Indian Ocean on an electric jet ski or sea bob. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try the jet pack which propels you into the air with water thrusters strapped to your ankles.
For a more relaxing option, try the sunrise yoga or join the early morning running club — slowly work your way around the island, finishing off in the gym with a stretching session.
To wind down you can visit the wellness centre, home to the award-winning AVI Spa. The six over-water villas each harness natural light and sound, sending you into a deep state of relaxation.
But the pièce de résistance of extra circular activities is the Manta Ray Experience: the once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with these charismatic creates. The Maamunagau lagoon is an important feeding ground for juvenile manta rays and provides protective shelter from predators and an abundance of plankton.
I hopped on the boat and headed for the lagoon. After donning a snorkel and mask, I jumped in the water and waited for the mantas to appear. Before I knew it, my body was being “bitten” by plankton, a bizarre itching sensation which meant that the creatures were near.
Out of nowhere came an enormous manta, curiously circling around me. It spent at least half an hour swimming around me, hoovering up the microscopic plankton. It was a magical moment that I’ll never forget.
Best for...
An adventure filled escape on an idyllic island with impressive gastronomy on offer.
The details
Prices at the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort start £620 per night in an Overwater Sunrise Pool villa including breakfast for two.
