The tiny exotic tropical island of Naladhu, with its stunning view is a gem in the Maldivian island. It is just right for a select luxury hideaway says Poonam Thapa after spending an exciting time at the private island.

The full moon shone vibrantly over sapphire ocean waters as the pleasing evening breeze caressed it softly. The Dhoni, or the ferry as it is called in local dialect, glided softly as it transported us to another timeless world of Naladhu resorts. An awe-inspired hush descended over us as we were captivated by the quiet beauty of a magical nightfall in this exotic Maldivian island. The healing qualities of water instantaneously had its calming effect on the fatigued nerves of a hectic day.

Naladhu, by the day, is even more mesmerizing with its white waves lapping pristine shores, tall coconut palms and cobalt blue waters surrounding it to infinity while the sun shines happily on this stunning locale. As we entered one of the world’s most exclusive and celebrated tropical havens of Naladhu meant for the rich and the famous, the bold and the beautiful, the vision that greeted us was nothing short of something out of a dream sequence. Mysterious and quaint sandy paths lined with lush green tropical bushes led to carved wooden doors that opened up to a spacious luxury home inside, all so exquisite, ready to welcome the elite globe-trotting modern day traveller. It is the perfect getaway for those seeking a personal and private vacation.

Naladhu, meaning “beautiful island”, presents an exclusive collection of houses that are cosily tucked away in the aquamarine settings of this Maldivian lagoon, offering a tranquil paradise that is sure to touch the soul. Each house has its own private cabana by the powder sandy beach where one can inhale clean fresh air and enjoy endless stretches of clear sparkling emerald and blue waters under open skies that are equally blue.

The resort boasts of different categories in accommodation such as the Ocean Pool Villas, Ocean House with Pool, Beach House with Pool and a recently launched two Bedroom Pool Residence at this boutique resort. The best in gracious accommodation is showcased here for a complete modern vacationing. The accommodation is completely different to the ones that are lined up along the jetty in the sister islands of Anantara Dhigu and Anantara Veli where coconut palm leaves and wood are mainly used to give the feel of a typical beach resort.

The new Residence, is a two storey house that spreads out in a sprawling space of oceanic indulgence, wrapping around an al fresco dining terrace that leads to a infinite pool, edged by a sun deck with a dining pavilion and sala at each end. A butler’s kitchen and well stocked pantry are in design for seamless entertaining in an elegant indoor dining and living room, which flows onto the outdoor deck and pool.  

Upstairs, the master suite unravels across a generous king size bedroom, lounge space and daybed balcony overlooking the azure ocean.  Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes in his and hers dressing rooms lead into the stately bathroom with a rain shower and huge bathtub over an awe-inspiring lagoon view. A twin bedroom, ideal for children, is included to provide the exceptional warmth and comforts of a residence in every regard. Each house opens to infinite skies and endless blue waters giving the feeling of immense space that is so crucial to a perfect vacation. All modern amenities to keep you connected to the outer world exists here with Wifi, LCD satellite TV and a home theatre for those laid back evenings. A personal butler service comes along with each house.

Kitchen and dining areas of the Residence afford guests the option to savour meals in the privacy and magnificence of this personal island abode. A chefs’ personal garden in the island grows fresh herbs and some vegetables for the kitchen and one can choose to attend the Maldivian cooking class held specially for interested guests. You can venture out to the resort’s cosy beachside restaurant aptly named the Living Room. We savoured the softest seared scallop with truffle risotto and pan seared corn fed chicken breast with smoked paprika ratatouille over a lovely dinner in this highly fashionable restaurant. Needless to say I could have spent the night just listening to the beach and staring up at the clear sky. 

Guests staying at Naladhu can also choose from the many dining options available in the nearby resorts of Anantara Veli and Anantara Dhigu that is accessible through a short Dhoni ride. Naladhu offers a host of leisure activities and water sports like snorkelling, diving, kayaking windsurfing etc which is sure to make your stay at the island memorable. One filled with fun and laughter.

The Anantara spas are renowned the world over and the Naladhu Spa here offers a host of beauty and healing treatments to invigorate and energize you and a session of a Balinese massage, a Thai massage or a western healing treatment will rejuvenate you to complete the experience of an exotic island resort.

Located at the Velighandu Huraa islands, the Naladhu Resorts is one of the most exclusive haven for those seeking a quiet and private hideaway. You can avail of the yatch transfer service from the Male airport which takes about 35 minutes to get to this magnificient resort. We enjoyed a comfortable journey and a fabulous trip, courtesy Maldives Tourism and Sri Lankan Airlines.