Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 prestigious brands, has announced the opening of Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, marking the Paris-born brand’s debut in one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
Ideally situated on Thilamaafushi, the southern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll, this 141-villa resort celebrates the fabric of the Maldives, its people, nature and art.
“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,” says Jason Nuell, Senior Vice President, Premium Brands, Marriott International.
“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.”
Spanning nine hectares, Thilamaafushi is defined as ‘island surrounded by vast lagoon’ in Dhivehi, the local parlance of the Maldives. The natural island is an eco-conscious haven abundant with indigenous flora and fauna, enveloped by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs bursting with vibrant marine life, including pods of Manta Rays and turtles. Guests can easily access the resort by a 35-minute seaplane journey north of Velana (MLE) International Airport, Malé.
“The natural island is an eco-conscious haven abundant with indigenous flora and fauna, enveloped by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs bursting with vibrant marine life, including pods of Manta Rays and turtles”
The timeless, chic design at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is inspired by the brand’s roots in the glamorous halcyon days of travel, something that permeates throughout the Le Méridien experience. In a nod to its environment, the design also takes inspiration from the formation of the Maldives Archipelago, emulating the Atoll’s unique topography, its bordering reefs, coral gardens, marine life and underwater pinnacles known as “Thilas”.
Interior and exterior design celebrates the Maldives’ distinct life and culture and vibrant landscape, fused with Le Méridien’s signature mid-century modern and Bauhaus aesthetics to present a resort that sits in harmony with the natural environment.
The resort presents 141 villas that are tucked amongst the tropical landscape and dotted over the Indian Ocean, featuring unparalleled views across the pristine beaches, the Indian Ocean or turquoise lagoon. A selection of one, two and three-bedroom villas unites the concept of art and industrial design with clean lines, a muted color palette and a contrast of renewable materials that fosters simplicity, openness and functionality.
“The design also takes inspiration from the formation of the Maldives Archipelago, emulating the Atoll’s unique topography, its bordering reefs, coral gardens, marine life and underwater pinnacles known as “Thilas”
Guests can also relax and rejuvenate at the Explore Spa by Le Méridien and the two infinity pools at the resort.
Six carefully curated restaurants and bars showcase global tastes and locally harvested produce. Inspired by Japanese fishing villages and water lanterns, the signature restaurant Tabemasu features a lively 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 a beachside playground framed by an oceanfront infinity pool and private beach, while Waves Café is a mindful eating space amidst the banyan trees and swaying palms.
Velaa Bar + Grill, situated poolside, features crafted cocktails and light dishes to savour in the summer sun.
The Le Méridien Hub, a social gathering place for the creative-minded traveller, serves custom-brewed, barista-crafted coffee beverages as part of the brand’s collaboration with illy coffee. Rounding out the culinary mix is Turquoise, a beachside marketplace where guests can choose from an array of global tastes and local dishes from breakfast to dinner.
