InterContinental Maldives: Where time stops and beautiful stories unfold.
There’s something truly special about returning to a place that holds so many cherished memories. This past trip to the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort was a homecoming of sorts, yet the magic of this secluded island never faded. Even though I had been here before, this time felt just as enchanting—if not more so. The InterContinental Maldives always leaves a lasting impression, and the sheer beauty and tranquility of this resort make it impossible not to fall in love all over again.
Location and Arrival: The Start of a Dream
The journey to the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is an experience in itself. After a long flight, there's nothing quite like the feeling of stepping onto a seaplane, your window seat offering aerial views of coral atolls and pristine lagoons. The 45-minute flight from Malé is not just a transfer; it's a gateway to paradise. As I sat back, I couldn’t help but marvel at how the Maldives never loses its allure, no matter how many times you visit.
The moment we began our descent over the Raa Atoll, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. The island’s location, far removed from the noise of everyday life, ensures a sense of privacy and seclusion that is hard to come by. Upon landing, I was warmly greeted by my personal curator Thorif, who welcomed me back with the kind of thoughtful gestures I’ve come to expect from the InterContinental brand. From the cool towels and refreshments in the private seaplane lounge to the quiet sense of calm that surrounded me, the experience set the perfect tone for the days ahead.
Accommodation
The accommodations at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort are an integral part of this InterContinental Maldives review. With 81 villas offering everything from beachfront seclusion to overwater luxury, the resort provides options to suit every preference while maintaining an unwavering commitment to comfort and elegance.
Overwater Villas: A Floating Oasis
My recent stay in a Overwater Villa was the epitome of Maldivian luxury. Perched above the lagoon, the villa featured a private infinity pool, direct access to the water, and panoramic ocean views that stretched endlessly toward the horizon. Waking up each morning to the sound of the gentle waves beneath my villa was a memory I’ll cherish forever. The overwater experience is a must for any traveller looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Maldives.
Beach Villas: Natural Seclusion
My last visit I had the privilege of staying in one of the resort’s Beach Villa's hidden among the lush greenery and offering direct access to a pristine stretch of beach, the villa felt like a world unto itself. The private pool, spacious outdoor deck, and minimalist yet luxurious interiors made for an idyllic retreat. Each villa seamlessly blends modern comforts with local craftsmanship, incorporating natural materials and Maldivian-inspired decor. For those seeking a deep connection with nature, these villas offer the perfect escape.
Lagoon Villas: A Blend of Land and Sea
For those torn between a beach and overwater experience, the Lagoon Villas offer the perfect compromise. These villas are situated near the lagoon, surrounded by lush greenery on one side and tranquil waters on the other. The spacious interiors, private pools, and breathtaking views make these villas an ideal choice for those looking to experience the best of both worlds in luxurious comfort.
Dining
If you’ve followed my travels for a while, you’ll know that after snorkelling, dining is one of my greatest passions. Staying on an all-inclusive basis at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort gave me plenty of opportunities to indulge. With a selection of three standout restaurants, each offering its own unique dining experience, every meal felt like a journey for the senses.
Café Umi: Relaxed Elegance
Every morning at Café Umi was a celebration of flavours. This open-air, all-day dining venue offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast. I couldn’t resist the vibrant Maldivian tuna mashuni, paired with tropical fruits and freshly baked pastries. There’s something wonderfully indulgent about starting your day with such a fresh and flavorful spread while surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of the Maldives.
The Lighthouse: Elevated Mediterranean Dining
As evening fell, The Lighthouse became my go-to for a truly elevated dining experience. Set over the water, this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers refined dishes with subtle Maldivian influences. Dining here feels like an event—each course was beautifully presented and paired with impeccable wines. The grilled seafood, delicate and perfectly seasoned, was a standout, but it was the romantic setting and ever-changing colors of the Maldivian sky that made each evening at The Lighthouse feel utterly magical. Read the full Lighthouse review.
Fish Market: A Sea-to-Table Experience
At the Fish Market, dining is interactive, fresh, and authentically Maldivian. Guests can choose their seafood, freshly caught by local fishermen, which is then expertly prepared with local spices. This sea-to-table concept delivers a truly authentic taste of the Maldives, with the flavours of the ocean brought to life through traditional Maldivian cooking techniques. It's a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the island’s culinary heritage.
Teppanyaki with Elegance
The newest addition to the resort’s culinary offerings, the Teppanyaki restaurant, brings the excitement of Japanese teppan cooking to the Maldives in an indoor, refined setting. Gathering around the grill, guests are treated to a performance of culinary mastery as chefs prepare succulent wagyu beef and perfectly seared tuna right before your eyes. Every dish is crafted with precision and incorporates the freshest ingredients, subtly infused with Maldivian influences. The intimate setting and sleek design elevate this dining experience, making it as visually captivating as it is delicious.
The Retreat - Adults Only hideaway
If there’s one hidden gem at the resort, it’s The Retreat—an adults-only space designed for pure relaxation. Tucked away at the edge of the island, The Retreat offers private cabanas, an infinity pool, and personalised service that makes you feel like the only guest on the island. It was here that I spent an entire afternoon, lounging by the pool with a cocktail in hand, enjoying the serenity that comes with being completely disconnected from the world.
Experiences
Beyond the luxury accommodations and world-class dining, the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resortoffers a variety of activities that make every day feel like an adventure.
Swimming with Manta Rays: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
One of the most unforgettable moments of my trip was the opportunity to swim with manta rays in their natural habitat. Through the resort’s partnership with the Manta Trust, I joined a guided snorkeling trip that brought me face-to-face with these majestic creatures. Watching the manta rays glide gracefully through the water, I felt a deep connection to the ocean. It’s an experience that leaves you in awe, not just of the marine life, but of the sheer beauty that surrounds this island.
AVI Spa: Wellness Above the Water
After days of adventure, I treated myself to some much-needed relaxation at the AVI Spa. The spa, with its overwater treatment rooms, is designed to calm both the body and the mind. I opted for a traditional Maldivian massage, and the combination of expert hands, soothing oils, and the sound of the ocean lapping beneath me created a state of pure bliss. The spa also offers a range of wellness treatments, including yoga sessions at sunrise and sunset, allowing you to rejuvenate while taking in the breathtaking views.
Sunset Dolphin Cruise: An Evening to Remember
One evening, I joined a sunset dolphin cruise, where we sailed into the open waters to watch pods of dolphins playfully surf the waves. As the sun set and painted the sky with hues of pink and gold, the sight of dolphins leaping through the air added to the magic of the moment. It was one of those rare experiences where you’re reminded of the wonders of nature, and the importance of taking time to simply enjoy life’s beauty.
Final Word on InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
"There’s a reason I’ve returned to the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort—it’s a place that captures your heart from the very first moment. From the luxurious accommodations to the unforgettable dining experiences, this resort offers everything you could possibly want in a Maldivian getaway. But more than that, it’s the personal touches—the little moments of magic—that make this place truly special."
TIP - Do make sure you meet the Manta Trust team, where Farah the resident Manta Ray researcher shares her passion about the work they are doing to protect manta rays at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort and you will undoubtedly fall further in love their fascinating flappy friends.
If you feel inspired to visit, or if you have more questions about picking the perfect resort, you can contact me and I'll help curate your perfect trip
Jane
PS - I can't wait to return, I might just see you there, if so, say hi!
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