Oh my…where to start. If you want the short version: this place is incredible and blew our minds!! It truly is one of those places where you want to pinch yourself multiple times to make sure yor are not dreaming. Continue reading for the long version…
We had the honor to be guests at the brand new Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau which just opened in September 2019. Let me walk you through 4 amazing days we spent on this beautiful island. We tried to experience every corner of the resort (except the gym haha) to show you what you can expect.
In a nutshell, I would describe the Intercontinental as a true luxury resort where you get pampered to the fullest. It is a resort where you can relax but also have fun. Therefore it is perfect for couples, honeymooners, families with kids as well as singles alike.
Let’s start with the most important part. The Villa.
We stayed at one of the Lagoon Villas (325) which was facing the sunrise. This 2 story villa is facing the Indian ocean on the one side and the protected inner lagoon on the other side. So wherever you look, you have a stunning view.
The villa can be called a semi-overwater villa since the private terrace is located overwater equipped with a private infinity pool.
The ground floor features a spacious living room with a comfy couch, a huge tv, minibar, fridge and a small bathroom with outdoor shower. It opens up to the overwater terrace on the one side and to another terrace on the lagoon side.
On the upper floor a super comfy bed is waiting for you facing the stunning lagoon view. The bathroom is semi open and the bathtub with ocean views is definitely the highlight. A balcony, tv, working desk, walk – in closet, shower and bathroom are also to be found on the upper floor.
The whole interior is super stylish and homey.
What really made the villa feel like home where the small details. Honestly everything was thought off. The amenities included everything from toothbrush to scrunchy. A selection of ropes, slippers, beach tote, flip flops, literally everything has been thought trough to make you feel comfortable. You could even pick your pillow mist that is applied every day during turn down service. Not to speak of the pastries and fresh fruit that were waiting for us every evening.
Each room gets bikes that you can use to get around the island. If you ask me the most fun way and also great to get some exercise.
This villa really was remarkable and we barely wanted to leave it. There are also different types of overwater villas as well as beach villas (ranging from small to huge) available to book.
Next up: The service
I was expecting a high level of service and hospitality, after all this is a five star resort on the Maldives. My expectations were exceeded far beyond. Let’s start with our very personal Island Curator named K. Every guest gets assigned an Island Curator who is responsible to make your stay a truly unforgettable experience. From daily activities to unpacking your suitcase, you name it, they will make sure you have the perfect holiday and don’t need to worry about anything. We were lucky to have K as our island curator who really made our stay so much more memorable.
Throughout the hotel everyone was super friendly and so warm and welcoming. Even after only 4 days we felt a true connection to all staff we had interactions with. They talked to us, we knew each others names and they were just so friendly that we really missed them after leaving.
Now we’re talking: The Food!
Everyone who follows me for a while knows I really love eating while traveling. This is my main activity. Luckily we were on Full Board basis which gave us plenty of opportunity to eat, a lot! The hotel has several opportunities.
Café Umi - The main restaurant serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. We had most meals here.
They offer a great variety of A La Carte options as well as a buffet for breakfast. Lunch and Dinner are solely A La Carte and a great variety of Asian and European cuisines is offered. All food was of great quality. Usually the main restaurant in hotels is not so spectacular but here it was the opposite. It was our favorite option.
Fish Market - An overwater upscale seafood restaurant serving dinner. This place is a heaven for seafood lovers. Fresh fish and seafood were available to pick from the counter. The menu is inspired by Asian cuisine and I really got a Nobu like vibe also in terms of atmosphere. The Sri Lankan Lobster was our highlight here. A perfect place to have a fancy and tasty evening.
The Lighthouse – Located in an actual lighthouse you can enjoy some pre dinner drinks and dinner here.
The cuisine is Mediterranean and so is the interior design. Make sure to head up on the lighthouse tower to catch some stunning views during the day or gaze at the stars at night.
The Retreat - This adult only area was my favorite spot on the island to hang out during the day.
During the day ou can enjoy the big infinity pool overlooking the lagoon or actually enjoy swimming in the lagoon. You can also have Breakfast here.
Small bites are offered during the day. You can also have some afternoon tea here with the best pastries.
In the evening this place turns into a great beach club where you can enjoy some drinks and enjoy the great music. I told you this is a fun resort.
The Collective – This is another great option for lunch. Mainly go for the wood oven pizza. You can also find an ice cream and pastry shop here.
The hotels main pool area is also located here. You have plenty of lounge chairs and cabanas to enjoy the big pool as well as the sandy beach.
Sunset Bar – As you probably can tell from the name, this place is great to enjoy some drinks while watching the sunset. Here a variety of champagnes and great cocktails awaits you.
What would a true vacation be without a visit to The Spa!
I went for a relaxing Balinese massage at the overwater AVI Spa. The spa rooms are all individual over-water villas. All spaciously design with views over the Indian ocean. The whole experience was truly relaxing and I’d definitely recommend adding at least one spa visit to your itinerary.
Besides massages, the spa offers also different facial and body treatments as well as special Chinese medicine treatments. This is the view by the way...
If you are traveling with kids, good news, there is a kids club!
Overall I can say this place is a piece of heaven on earth and a relaxing and unforgettable holiday is guaranteed.
What I liked most? The lagoon, which was always calm and good to swim, even when the weather was windy. The food, which was just impeccable. The service and the villa. Ok…everything! : )
Easiest way to reach the property, which is located in Raa Atoll, north of Male, is by seaplane transfer from Male Airport which takes around 40 minutes one way. Alternatively you can take a 20 minute domestic plane ride followed by a speedboat transfer.
Click here to book and check out the opening offers.
Hi! I understand this trip was a few years ago, but can you tell me exactly how the full board package worked in the restaurants? Was it a separte prix fix menu to choose from or the regular menu? And did your package include alcohol or only meals? Thank you :)