Raffles will open a 38-villa resort in the Maldives’ Gaafu Alifu Atoll on February 1. It will be AccorHotels’ fourth property in the Maldives and is the first under the Raffles brand.
The resort will offer Beach Villas, Beach Residences and the Raffles Royal Residence, which opens in the second half of 2019.
A collection of Overwater Villas and Residences lies adjacent to one of the house reefs that can be reached by a traditional Maldivian Dhoni boat.
In each of the terraces, glass flooring panels allows guests to observe marine life beneath their feet. They can call on the hotel’s resident marine biologist and team of marine butlers to help with a better understanding of the underwater world.
At night, the moon and stars reflect on the mirror-like ocean, creating an extraordinary spectacle.
“Boasting 1200 islands, Maldives is home to the best beaches in the world and now, with the opening of Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, it is also home to the best of luxury hospitality,” says Patrick Basset, AccorHotels’ CEO for Upper South-east and North-east Asia and the Maldives.
Dining options include the Thari all-day diner; Yuzu, Peruvian and Japanese fusion restaurant, and The Firepit, where guest can enjoy flame-grilled chef specialty dishes under the stars.
Tapas are served at the overwater Yapa Sunset Bar, and the world’s most prestigious champagnes and wines are offered at the popular Long Bar.
A Raffles Spa, various wellness treatments, and an over-water fitness centre, plus water sport activities are offered to balance physical and mental well-being.
Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is located at the southern end of the Maldives archipelago, near the equator. The resort is accessible by domestic flight, 55 minutes from Male International Airport followed by 15-minute speedboat ride from Kaadedhdhoo Airport.