Maafushivaru, Maldives
Located in the southern tip of the picturesque atoll of Ari, Maafushivaru is the definition of ‘no-shoes-no-news’ that Maldives is known for.
Overview
Measuring just over 500 metres in length, this palm-fringed island is surrounded by powder-white sand, with one of the best coral reefs in the archipelago protecting it.
Designed to cater to families looking to spend quality time together or couples seeking to rekindle their romance, Maafushivaru offers an experience that elegantly combines a Maldives from times gone by with the modern luxuries of the present.
The island offers 50 villas in three distinct styles, each combining elements of Maldivian architecture with stylish and chic finishing touches. In line with typical Maldives, the reception, Library Lounge walkway and Water Bar are all sand floored. Going barefoot is the only way to go on this island. Located in the same lagoon as Maafushivaru, just minutes away, is Lonubo, a stunning deserted islet that you can choose to while away your days or have romantic lobster dinners in the evening, just the two of you, on your own private island for the night.
Facilities offered on the island include Library Lounge which features coffee/tea service with books, magazines, and board games for both adults and children. You will find many places overlooking the azure seas to relax and curl up with a favourite book, including a sundeck, that doubles up as a great spot for a private dinner. Wi-fi internet service is also available in several public areas including the Library Lounge, reception and Water Bar, whilst DVD can be borrowed from the reception. Bespoke renewal of vows services are also organised on request.
An infinity edged fibre-optic lit swimming pool and children’s pool is available for guests who prefer a dip in the cool fresh water. A boutique offers a wide collection of souvenirs, local items and beach apparel. Closest medical centre to the island is located in the neighbouring local island of Dhangethi, 20 minutes by Dhoni
Transfer to the island is by seaplane and takes 25 minutes from Male’ International Airport.
Accommodation
Water Villas
Situated over the sparkling blue lagoon, the Water Villas are an ideal location to watch the colourful myriad of fishes that call these waters home. Similar to the land-based villas, the Water Villa features king-sized bed, air conditioning/fan, flatscreen TV/DVD player, iPod docking, IDD telephone, minibar, espresso machine, bath
and beach towels, hair dryer and electronic safe. The bathroom features rainfall shower and a bath, and offer panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. These sumptuous villas are completely private, with a wooden deck featuring sun loungers, that gives direct access into the lagoon.
Deluxe Beach Villas
Similar to the Beach Villas in style, the Deluxe Beach Villa is the perfect choice for a family with children or anyone wanting a little extra privacy. Each two villas have a shared entrance with corridor, but can also be booked separately. These villas come with a private pool, shared between the two rooms, with sun loungers facing the sea side and a separate dining pavilion.
Beach Villas
These are individual villas located directly on the beach, each featuring a spacious bedroom with king-sized bed, air conditioning/fan, flatscreen TV/DVD player, iPod docking, IDD telephone, minibar, espresso machine, bath and beach towels, hair dryer and electronic safe. The large bathroom is semi-open air and features twin vanity, and shower, and an outdoor garden area with a rainfall shower made of stone. A private veranda and sun loungers facing the sea completes these villas.
Restaurants & Bars
The Cuisine Gallery features Mediterranean inspired fare that is regularly infused with local flavours. The main area of the restaurant features open air seating, whilst a separate terrace overlooking the lagoon features premium seating with sea view, available on first come first serve basis. Sumptuous buffets are offered for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A la carte dining featuring a menu of our favourite dishes as well as private dining experiences are available in the evenings on request basis. Situated next to the restaurant, is also the Water Bar with a separate discotheque.
Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the blue Indian Ocean whilst sipping on a local fresh juice or a delicious cocktail prepared by the talented bartenders. Wine Chiller located near the Library Lounge features a wide selection of wines, and offers private wine tasting sessions and dinners. Other romantic dining experiences offered on the island include candlelit dinners on the beach and enchanting lobster dinners on the deserted island of Lonubo.
Features
The Spa
Sitting over the water with uninterrupted views out to the Indian Ocean, the spa environment merges luxury interiors with nature in perfect harmony. The spa offers two individual treatments rooms, a couple’s treatment room with jacuzzi, a relaxation lounge, wet area with steam and sauna, fully equipped gymnasium and a yoga pavilion. All spa rooms have private shower and a terrace that opens out onto the sea.
In addition to individual and couple’s massages from around the world, therapies offered at the spa include Ayurvedic treatments, body forming therapies, body wraps, facials and beauty treatments including decorative art and hairdressing. A bespoke set of therapies is available just for the gentlemen. Popular treatments at the spa include the Morning Marma massage which is an old traditional Indian massage done by the feet of the therapist and Aloe Vera Healer which allows your entire body to be soothed with a therapeutic aloe vera wrap and is perfect after a day of soaking in the sun.
Diving & Activities
The dive school is located over water, with its own walkway and has the luxury to choose from an extensive number of magnificent dive sites. Maafushivaru is lucky to be situated in this area, which is famous for diving. The school is run by qualified multi-lingual instructors and offers diving for all levels. Two dives are organised each day, morning and afternoon, onboard a comfortable Maldivian Dhoni with open deck. Night dives, half day and full day trips to sites further away, are also organised regularly. The school also offers PADI certification for beginners and advanced divers.
Maafushivaru water sports centre offers a great opportunity for some wet fun and adventure. A selection of non motorised water sports and courses is offered on the island.
Diverse excursions are available for guests to choose from, ranging from a visit to local island Dhangethi, to fishing trips, sunset cruises, island hopping trips and snorkelling safaris . Day trips and romantic dinners are organised at Lonubo, the small deserted island just 300 metres away.
Please note that the star ratings are based on our personal opinions of quality level and that much of the content of these property articles comes direct from their own websites & factsheets and was correct at the time of publishing
