Set on a private island in the Raa Atoll, the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is a five-star sanctuary that delivers the classic Maldivian fantasy – gin-clear waters, salt-white sand and a sense of serenity so profound it should be offered on prescription. But it also takes its eco credentials seriously, playing home to the Manta Trust, one of the world’s leading research organisations for one of the most fascinating creatures under the sea.
The vibe
Getting here is an event in itself. After touching down in Malé, guests board a 35-minute seaplane to the island, where staff greet you like an old friend (albeit one they’ll be waiting on hand and foot). There are just 81 villas, all spacious, modern (the resort only opened in 2019) and impeccably designed. Everyone gets a private pool; the most spectacular are at the overwater villas where the infinity pools seem to spill into the ocean.
The resort takes the concept of ‘all-inclusive’ seriously. Unlike most high-end Maldivian resorts, where extras can rack up faster than your Instagram likes, here the club benefits are built in. That means free-flowing champagne at sunset, all-day canapés and, crucially, access to the Retreat, the only Club InterContinental in the Maldives.
Eating and drinking
There are six dining options, each punching well above the usual resort fare. Café Umi is the all-day dining spot, serving up beautifully plated sushi and fresh seafood with ocean views. Fish Market, an open-air, feet-in-the-sand affair, combines Maldivian flavours with Southeast Asian influences (don’t miss the tuna carpaccio). The Lighthouse, a dazzling white dome perched over the water, is the place for fine dining – order the lobster ravioli and thank us later – and private barbecues on the sand outside.
The drinks situation is just as well thought out. Sunset Bar serves craft cocktails with a side of fiery Indian Ocean sunsets, and The Retreat – an adults-only infinity pool and bar – feels like a holiday within a holiday for parents who have offloaded the children to the kids’ club. Not that they need to feel guilty, Planet Trekkers is a joy for little ones, providing a range of activities, from marine biology sessions to arts and crafts.
Things to do
Despite the island’s soporific charm, there’s plenty to do beyond lounging in a cabana. The house reef is on the west side of the island where the waters are cooler, meaning it is teeming with marine life. Non-motorised watersports are complimentary for all guests, as are a range of daily activities (kung fu anyone?). The heart of the resort is the dive centre. Run in conjunction with the Manta Trust, its marine biologists offer guided snorkelling trips where you’ll likely encounter reef sharks, turtles and, with luck, the gentle giants of the underwater world. The Maamunagau lagoon is not only home to the resort, but an important feeding ground for juvenile manta rays and the resort organises a Matna every spring during Maamunagau season, where young manta rays are found in the lagoon. The retreat allows a small group to snorkel or dive with the juvenile mantas with members of the trust who also organise talks and workshops. To swim alongside these unique creatures with informed scientists dedicated to their protection is the stuff of lifelong memories.
Then there’s the AVI Spa, a temple to tranquillity perched over the lagoon. Treatments blend Ayurvedic principles with Maldivian botanicals, and the ocean-facing massage beds mean you’ll be lulled into bliss by the sound of lapping waves.
The verdict
There’s no shortage of luxury in the Maldives, but InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort stands out for its thoughtful details, genuinely warm service, and an all-inclusive model that takes the guesswork out of indulgence. If you’re after a five-star escape where every whim is catered for (they send out a pre-arrival questionnaire to get to know your likes and dislikes), you’ve just found your happy place.