FIRST LOOK: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives

Seclusion seamlessly blends with adventure at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, Raa Atoll’s latest opening and Hyatt’s second Maldives property. Located 45 minutes from Velana International Airport (VIA), Alila Kothaifaru welcomed its first guests on 16 May 2022, opening doors to an awe-inspiring destination embraced by nature’s wonders.

Combining minimalist elegance and its stunning nature, Alila Kothaifaru features 44 beachfront villas and 36 overwater villas – all with private pools and carefully positioned to provide privacy and comfort in understated, sophisticated style. Each villa comes with a TV with satellite channels and entertainment system, complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee machine and tea-making facilities, bathroom amenities specially made for Him and Her and more. The Beach Villas are 202 sqm while the Water Villas are 125 sqm and they can be found either facing the sunrise, sunset or amid the lush vegetation.

Nestled in the heart of the island is its spa, hidden amidst the leafy canopy with the lush surroundings. Spa Alila features four double treatment suites, all with a private bathroom, shower and a floor-to-ceiling window offering views. Treatments range from massages to body treatments to family offerings – all designed with the aim of bringing guests back into balance naturally with treatments personalised to their needs.

The resort offers six dining outlets for guests. Serving coastal cuisine with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences is the Seasalt all-day dining restaurant. Here, the highlight is local fish caught and delivered daily by neighbouring local fishermen. Just nearby is the infinity pool and Mirus Bar – serving wines, short eats and a refreshing selection of cocktails inspired by the region’s former Portuguese and Arabic spice trade routes and concocted with ingredients from the resort’s own herb garden. For Japanese food-lovers, Umami offers a wide range of traditional and modern a la carte Japanese dishes. Asian-inspired creative cocktails and mocktails are served at Yakitori Bar alongside fine Japanese sakes and spirits while Pibati café satisfies your daytime cravings with comfort food. For an elevated experience, The Shack takes guests to a private dining venue where they can have picnic style lunch or sunset BBQ with a private chef.

When it comes to the escapades, Raa Atoll is one of the most popular dive destinations. Guests can go beyond the resort’s beautiful house reef and enjoy easy access to the famous Hanifaru Bay UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. This protected marine sanctuary is the largest feeding and breeding hotspot in the world for manta rays and whale sharks. Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is also close to Vaadhoo Island, one of the best spots to witness the spectacular “Sea of Stars” phenomenon.

Furthermore, the resort’s facilities include a Fitness Centre, Yoga Space, Library, Games Room, boutique and a kids’ club. Simultaneously, Alila Kothaifaru is committed to protect the environment and support the local community.

Whether you’re on a family escape, a romantic or an adventurous one, the Alila Experience is designed to be surprisingly different.