5 minute read
VELASSARU
VELASSARU ISLAND
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Sophistication and tranquility awaits you upon the South Malé Atoll, as Universal Resorts present you ‘Velassaru,’ a resort that pairs contemporary luxury with the natural beauty of the Maldives. With its pearl-dust beaches, turquoise lagoon and myriad coconut groves the island is a magical setting for this 5-star resort and is quite possibly the finest resort accessible via speedboat.
Contemporary and unique, the resort’s accommodation is dotted through the island and boasts 26 Deluxe Bungalows, 25 Deluxe Villas and 30 Beach Villas to the north. Located within their own private tropical garden just steps from the beach, the Deluxe Bungalows are subtly integrated into the natural foliage and provide a spacious intimacy; expertly crafted, these buildings are designed across two expansive levels with minimalist interiors and colourful accents. Beach villas are slightly larger and look out onto the beachfront with a sprawling sea-facing terrace, 10 of these villas have recently been upgraded to Beach Villa with Pools, each boasting 20 square metre private swimming pools.
For those who want to feel like they are literally walking on water, the northern tip of the island brings guests a jetty hosting the 17 airy and luxe Water Bungalows now all with swimming pools, each one rising out of the lagoon set on stilts. These villas offer exceptional uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, whether from the king-sized bed through the floor-to-ceiling glass doors, or via the over-water deck leading down to the crystal clear waters below. Similarly, from the southwest of the island snakes a further jetty housing 28 spacious Water Villas and the resort’s exclusive Water Suite with a 10 metre long infinity pool.
These huge villas represent unparalleled splendour, four with private pools and all feature king- size silk draped beds and a full sea-facing wall opening out onto an expansive terrace above the lucid waters of the lagoon. For those looking for that extra touch of luxury, Velassaru offers the one and only Pool Villa, Deluxe Villa with Pool, and Water Suite all with large private pools. All of the resort’s accommodation comes equipped with an array of modern amenities and comforts as standard.
The natural beauty of the island is the heart and soul of the resort experience. All spa, leisure and dining facilities have been created to celebrate the setting. The ocean is never out of sight. Guests have a wide range of dining options to choose from with several restaurants located close to the main reception and pool. Savouring continental and Asian cuisines at Turquoise is an intimate affair with its panoramic ocean backdrop, whereas Vela has a casual vibe and a creative international menu.
Etesian offers Mediterranean gourmet dishes of the finest kind with truffles, cheeses and a wine library to envy. From a south-east facing jetty the oceanfront food theatre of Sand serves Eastern, Pan Asian and Continental cuisines from the live hot stone grill. Teppanyaki over the lagoon showcases contemporary Japanese cuisine with a creative twist. The ever-changing buffet at Vela ranges from local specialties, to European Classics and much, much more. Guests can enjoy stunning ocean views, freshly mixed cocktail and perfectly chilled wines and beer paired with a delectable and unique selection of International Tapas, at the alfresco Chill Bar.
Alternatively, Velassaru private dining allows guests to eat from their own menu in a location of their choosing. Why not lunch for two on your own desert island for the most romantic day imaginable?
Guests are likely to round off their evening in the chic setting of the spectacular beachfront bar of Fen. With cocktails to live music and the Maldivian sunset, Fen is the signature Velassaru experience. For those seeking total relaxation, The Spa at Velassaru is an experience not to be missed. One of the most beautiful over water spas in the Maldives, its ten treatment rooms, pool and yoga pavilion are all set on stilts over the clear blue lagoon allowing uninterrupted ocean views. The Spa offer guests signature treatments and rituals that are created to provide an authentic healing experience in the essence of Maldives. All treatments are done with locally sourced natural ingredients, like Virgin Coconut Oil rich with Vitamin E that complement the beauty of the island.
The resort provides many opportunities for those who are a little more active. The beaches themselves vary from the broad and open to the small and secluded and the local waters are perfect for snorkelling or diving. Immersion, the resort dive school offers a full range of PADI courses for divers of all levels. With over 60 reefs teeming with vibrant marine life, guests have ample opportunity to explore the world’s best dive sights. Velassaru also offers windsurfing, catamaran, kayak hire and fishing trips, to compliment the fully-equipped gym and hard tennis court, as well as complimentary morning yoga, morning cruise and snorkelling tours.
Excursions to desert islands are available plus the chance to take sea-plane photo flights, providing you with a bird’s eye view of the mysterious atoll formations, or glide across the ocean on a sunset cruise.
A location of exquisite romance and beauty, Velassaru has been designed for couples, families and the young at heart. A stunning resort with distinctive style and personality combines affordable chic with true Maldivian hospitality.