The Maldives already has some of the world’s most opulent resorts, but a new Waldorf Astoria resort is bringing it to the next level.The Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, which opened recently, spans three islands and features 122 villas with private infinity pools starting at £1,400 per night ($1,800).But the best part is yet to come. Guests arrive at the resort in style on the resort’s own yacht, removing the need to wait for an airport transfer.
Beach, reef, and overwater villas all have a spacious deck with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean or direct access to the beach, enabling guests to wake up with the sand between their toes.Holidaymakers looking for a private haven can stay on the resort’s private island, which is only accessible by boat. A four-bedroom apartment, a three-bedroom beach villa, and a two-bedroom overwater villa are all part of the 32,000-square-metre sanctuary.
The Ithaafushi Private Island features a personal chef and concierge staff, as well as an overwater spa and gym, five swimming pools, and an entertainment center.
The resort’s culinary offering, which involves no less than 11 specialty dining locations, leaves guests spoilt for options. The Ledge, the island’s barbeque grill restaurant, welcomes world-renowned chef Dave Pynt, the genius behind Singapore’s Michelin-starred Burnt Ends.
His iconic four-ton dual-cavity oven and elevation grills are featured in the restaurant, allowing for techniques like smoking, slow roasting, baking, and grilling. The Ledge, which brings culinary theatre to the Maldives, allows visitors to see their dish being prepared, including favorites like the Dry Aged OP Rib, a 45-day dry-aged beef rib, and the signature signatu rib.
Terra, which is situated on the island’s highest point and provides a ‘special gastronomic dining experience’ in private dining pods made of natural bamboo, is another dining highlight.
The Rock, set among boulders, is a rustic wine cellar and dining experience with a menu that pays homage to renowned wine regions around the world. Guests will enjoy wine pairing meals or an elevated dining experience with a menu that pays homage to renowned wine regions around the world.
Yasmeen, on the other hand, serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine to diners. In dining rooms adorned with decorative artefacts and antiques, hot pitas and puffed breads baked in ovens with centuries-old designs, charcoal-roasted meats, and hot and cold mezzes are served.
Glow, which is set in a greenhouse-like structure shaded by lush greenery, continues the immersive experience. It honors the idea of immersive garden-to-table dining by offering balanced and holistic cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients from the island’s garden.
Wellness enthusiasts would love the Waldorf Astoria Spa, which provides a variety of treatments in the privacy of an overwater or garden villa. There’s also a wellness center, a water sports center, and a PADI dive center, as well as a variety of bespoke experiences ranging from sunrise meditation to private sunset dining.
‘Asia Pacific is experiencing a golden age of travel, and the launch of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi is part of the rising momentum of Hilton’s luxury and lifestyle portfolio in the country,’ said Alan Watts, president of Asia Pacific Hilton.
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