Discovering Velassaru Maldives: A Symphony of Island Serenity and Natural Beauty
"Travelling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller." - Ibn Battuta
Stepping onto the pristine sands of Velassaru Maldives in the South Male Atoll, it feels as though you've entered a dreamscape where contemporary luxury harmonises with the untouched beauty of the Maldives. This resort, a proud member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World and now part of the prestigious Hilton Hotels & Resorts, offers an unparalleled escape for discerning travellers.
Your journey begins at Male airport, where Velassaru's dedicated guest services team welcomes you with open arms. A short, 25-minute luxury speedboat ride later, you find yourself in a world of turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. "The ocean's shade is an incredible turquoise even when the skies are stormy," remarked one recent visitor, capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of this paradise.
Accommodations: A Sanctuary of Modern Comfort
Velassaru offers 129 intimate villas and bungalows, each designed to provide a sanctuary of modern comfort. Choose from deluxe beach front bungalows and villas, water bungalows with private pools, or expansive water villas with direct access to the ocean. Each accommodation is thoughtfully furnished with plush bathrobes, L’Occitane products, Nespresso machines, and more, ensuring a luxurious stay.
A night in a water villa, where the gentle waves lull you to sleep and the freestanding bath tub offers a breathtaking view of the ocean, creates a serene and unforgettable experience, leaving you feeling both centred and profoundly at peace.
Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses
Velassaru Maldives is a haven for food enthusiasts, recently awarded as ‘Best Culinary Establishment 2024’, offering five diverse dining venues and two bars. Each restaurant promises a unique gastro-journey:
Turquoise: This restaurant serves international cuisine with continental and Asian influences, set amidst tropical palms.
Etesian: Provides an intimate dining experience with a Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Vela: Offers a world cuisine buffet, with an array of tantalising flavours.
Sand: A beach-front dining venue where you can savour Maldivian curries and fresh seafood by the water’s edge.
Teppanyaki: An over-water pavilion offering a spectacular Japanese dining experience with culinary shows.
For a more private dining experience, Velassaru offers in-room dining and private beach setups around the resort. The Chill Bar and Fen Bar provide a variety of spirits, delectable mixed drinks and light snacks, ideal for relaxing as the sun sets over the clear waters.
Things to Do
Velassaru is more than just a place to relax, it's a hub for adventure and exploration. Guests can immerse themselves in a plethora of activities, from thrilling water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kitesurfing to exploratory diving sessions and adventurous cruises. The resort’s dive centre, IMMERSION, organises various scuba diving trips, snorkeling experiences and sunset cruises, allowing guests to explore the stunning reefs and marine life of the Maldives.
For those who prefer to stay on land, Velassaru offers a fully equipped gym, soft-impact tennis court, and complimentary yoga classes on the beach. Whether you seek serene relaxation or the thrill of adventure, Velassaru caters to all desires, providing both tranquil retreats and exhilarating activities to satisfy every guest.
The resort’s spa, situated in an over-water pavilion, is a sanctuary of tranquillity. Offering a range of authentic Maldivian treatments, the spa uses natural ingredients inspired by the environment. The Velassaru Ritual, featuring Maldivian coral sand and an island radiance facial, leaves guests feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The spa also boasts a hydro pool perched over the lagoon and serene lounging areas, perfect for a day of ultimate relaxation.
Velassaru Maldives goes beyond the usual resort offerings with unique experiences designed to create lasting memories. Learn to make cocktails with a master mixologist, enjoy a cinema beneath the stars, or embark on a romantic sunset cruise. Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in night fishing and big game fishing trips, hoping to land the catch of a lifetime.
A Luxurious Alliance
In a recent development, Velassaru Maldives, along with three other Universal Resorts properties, joined forces with Hilton Hotels & Resorts and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. This partnership allows Hilton Honors members to enjoy exclusive benefits and explore the captivating beauty of these iconic Maldivian properties.
Velassaru Maldives stands as a beacon of modern luxury in the heart of the Maldives and provides an idyllic escape for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity. The editor of iTravel World & iPremium said: "This Island paradise will forever hold a piece of my heart, and there is no doubt in my mind that I will return to bask in its unrivalled beauty once more."