Where to stay and why for all-inclusive breaks in the Maldives

All-inclusive resorts are a very popular way of experiencing the Maldives, given that you’re based on a single-resort island where everything is located on site. But with so many gorgeous resorts to choose from in this thriving, ever-evolving destination, where do you start? We’ve looked at some of our favourites for a variety of reasons.

Kudadoo Maldives Private Island – for eco-conscious luxury

This chic but environmentally friendly tropical paradise comprising just 15 overwater residences takes care of your every whim with its all-encompassing Anything, Anytime, Anywhere concept. This embraces a private butler for each of the villas, on hand to curate a collection of experiences that will make your holiday beyond memorable – from searching for dolphins, swimming with mantas and snorkelling with turtles alongside the resort’s resident marine biologists to a secluded picnic on the Dream Island sandbank

Kudadoo is the Maldives’ only fully solar powered private island and its many prestigious accolades include World’s Best New Luxury Hotel for 2018 by Luxury Travel Intelligence, Best Island Resort in the Robb Report, and Best Sustainable Resort in the 2019 Hospitality Design Award. But this is also a place for indulgence everywhere from the owner’s private wine cellar with its hand-picked vintages to the spa with the Maldives’ only healing Himalayan salt chamber.

Hurawalhi Island Resort – for the villa options

This adult-only option offers up 90 beach and overwater villas, all with private sundeck, and some with a private infinity pool, some with a bathtub on the terrace, and/or some with direct access to the lovely lagoon. Another highlight is the excellent house reef, which is home to a non-profit Manta Trust Marine Biology Centre – guests can take part in workshops and trips run by the resident marine biologist.

As well as the world’s largest all-glass undersea restaurant, serving a world-class tasting menu, Hurawalhi Island Resort offers Asian street food and vegan takes on comfort classics such as burgers, nachos and buffalo wings in the JFK (Junk Food Kitchen), and unforgettable private dining experiences on the peaceful sandbank. Your all-inclusive package also embraces a sunset dolphin cruise, a group snorkelling and a group windsurfing lesson, and yoga sessions.

Kagi Maldives Spa Island – for focusing on your wellness

Reachable by either a fun 60-minute speedboat transfer or a relaxing 15-minute seaplane ride from Malé, this 2020-opened boutique retreat of just 50 beach and overwater villas is centred on the wellbeing experiences available at its 1,500m2 spa and wellness hub – distinctive for its open-air courtyard within the complex’s teardrop-shaped ‘sky roof’. Reserved for adults and teens, the villas all have infinity plunge pools and unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean to increase the feeling of remoteness and communion with nature.

The experiences here all begin with a cleansing ritual that banishes stressful energies through the use of aromatic essences and herbal infusions that aid the release of worries and negative energies and help you to begin the process of letting go. The aim is to reconnect you both with gorgeous nature and with your authentic self by finding a balance between living healthy and joyfully – hence the spa journeys are complemented by activities including mindfulness, yoga, and scuba-diving as a form of meditation, plus innovative, nutritious gourmet cuisine in the two-storey Nourishing Complex and even chef’s-table set menus in the resort’s herb garden.

For more help planning your all-inclusive stay in the Maldives, get in touch with your Travel Counsellor today.

Experience the magic of the Mediterranean with Fred. Olsen

22 July 2024

Step aboard a journey that promises to captivate your soul and awaken your adventurous spirit. Fred. Olsen’s fly-cruises in the Mediterranean invite you to embark on smaller, more intimate ships designed to navigate the hidden gems of this enchanting region. Picture yourself exploring the sun-kissed islands of Dalmatia, where history and natural beauty intertwine, or marvelling at the vibrant, colour-drenched clifftop towns that adorn the Amalfi Coast.

Try something new this year with these destination dupes

15 July 2024

Tired of the usual tourist traps? Looking for a unique adventure that not everyone will have been to? You're in the right place. Welcome to our second guide on destination dupes—unexpected places that offer the same allure as popular spots but without the huge crowds. Perfect for adventure travellers and luxury seekers alike, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences in beautiful, less-talked-about locales.

Discover the cultural highlights of Europe with Riviera Travel

15 July 2024

Imagine stepping back in time to an era of grand voyages, where the joy of travel was found in the act of exploring, learning, and immersing yourself in the wonders of the world. Riviera Travel's European Grand Tours offer you the chance to relive that golden age of travel on luxurious 9 to 13-day adventures. If you're a lover of art, culture, and history, these tours are a once-in-a-lifetime experience you'll cherish forever.