Marriott has announced the opening of Le Méridien Maldives Resort and Spa.
Located on Thilamaafushi, the southern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll, the resort is a 35-minute seaplane journey north of Velana International Airport, Malé.
The resort offers 141 villas that offer unparalleled views across the pristine beaches, the Indian Ocean or turquoise lagoon. A selection of one, two and three-bedroom villas are available. The design features highlight the concept of “art and industrial design with clean lines, a muted colour palette and a contrast of renewable materials.”
Guests can choose from six restaurants and bars, showcasing local and international creations. The signature restaurant Tabemasu features a live teppanyaki counter and a private open-air pavilion where guests will enjoy an expertly prepared Omakase tasting menu. The resort’s adults only bar, Riviera is an ideal place to unwind with friends and family. The Waves Café is a mindful eating space that fosters a healthy and nourishing approach with a focus on organic farm-to-table ingredients.
Velaa Bar + Grill, situated poolside, serves cocktails, light bites, grilled seafood, meats and wood-fired delicacies. The Le Méridien Hub offers custom-brewed, barista-crafted coffee beverages as part of the brand’s collaboration with illy coffee. Head to Turquoise, a beachside marketplace where guests can choose from an array of global delights and local dishes.
Recreational amenities include the Waves Lifestyle Hub featuring an ocean-facing fitness studio and yoga pavilion and Waves Café, an interactive creative arts studio that focuses on local contemporary art. The space also features a retail emporium showcasing hand-crafted and contemporary lifestyle pieces.
Guests can also relax and rejuvenate at the Explore Spa by Le Méridien and the two infinity pools at the resort.
The Marine Hub at the resort offers a range of conservation programmes including mangrove and seagrass protection and turtle identification and snorkelling with the marine biologist, with the opportunity for guests to name a turtle for themselves. Several other marine experiences are also available.
The Le Méridien Family and Kids’ Hub offers programmes that range from day and night nature trails, folklore storytelling and sustainable art classes.
Jason Nuell, senior vice president, Premium Brands, Marriott International said:
“With a nostalgic nod to the glamour of the French Riviera in the 1960s, Le Méridien inspires travellers to explore the world in style, savour the good life and enjoy experiences that offer something more than meets the eye.
“We are delighted to bring Le Méridien to this internationally desired destination, the perfect place for guests to step out of their daily routine and into a glamorous getaway where wandering sans agenda and lingering longer are encouraged.”
Rajeev Menon, president, Asia Pacific (excluding China), Marriott International said:
“We are thrilled to introduce the iconic Le Méridien brand to the Maldives, strengthening our presence in this captivating destination.
“The opening of Le Méridien Maldives Resort and Spa marks the second Marriott International property that opened in the Maldives this summer and the seventh brand entry in the destination. We look forward to expanding our portfolio further in the Maldives in order to offer distinctive and personalised experiences for travellers.”
