BIG MALDIVIAN DIGS

THE Maldives has long been known as a destination that’s perfect for pairs.

The Indian-Ocean utopia has an extensive list of resorts boasting the style of accommodations that suit two people seeking endless amounts of romance with a generous supply of over-water bungalows, infinity swimming pools, secluded sandbars, and stunning sunsets.

But the Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is challenging the made-for-two stereotype by unveiling a luxurious three-bedroom house that’s perfectly suited to a multi-generational family or group of pals vacationing together.

The Residence, which has a private pool as well as direct access to the white sand and blue water of the reef-side beach, can house six adults and six children – or nine adults in a different configuration – with a path leading to an adjourning villa expanding the retreat to four bedrooms and adding another infinity pond and outdoor dining pavilion.

“Guests find themselves in a designer-draped haven borrowing elegant accents from Thailand, Morocco and India,’’ explains an Anantara media release detailing the new digs on this blissful Baa Atoll island.

“Daybeds float over the infinity-edge pool and the water features of the courtyard bathrooms, swaying palms rise through the sprawling wooden deck, and by day guests can luxuriate in Anantara Spa treatments delivered in the privacy of the Residence’s spa sala.

“By night guests are welcome to immerse themselves in the pool, twinkling with fibre-optic lights to mirror the night sky of the Indian Ocean, or enjoy a late-night soak in two-person bathtubs while savouring an exquisite bottle from their bedroom’s own stocked wine cabinet.’’

The three-bedroom retreat is served by a personal “villa host” on hand around the clock to satisfy guest requests while those who book a stay in the Residence will have access to the waterborne activities and bespoke excursions offered by the property that’s a 35-minute flight from Male.

“We’re addressing the growing demand for larger accommodation,” explains resort general manager Jean-Marc Ma-Poon.

“The three-bedroom Beach Pool Residence caters to guests who dream big.”

This pristine Maldivian island is “on the doorstep of Hanifaru Bay” and, as well as the sprawling Residence just been added to the inventory, has 79 villas ranging in size from 260sqm to 2,730sqm with some perched above the water and others in the trees flanking a flawless stretch of sand.