What a whirlwind tour that was... 4 of the most spectacular atolls in the Maldives in 9 days, staying at the Cinnamon resorts!
This trip was all about understanding the variety of resorts across this group of nearly 1200 islands, some inhabited, some just stretches of sand in a vast turquoise sea.
My first stop was close-by to Male, the capital, just a short 20 minute transfer to Dhonveli, a 4 star resort, great for value and one of the widest and most shallow lagoons that is perfect for families. Add to this the best surfing to be found in the Maldives, known as the Pasta Point, and a bar to watch surfers perfect their craft at sunset. Magical.
Next came Ellaidhoo, a speedboat ride of about an hour away and home to the best coral house reef across the islands, with a 30m sheer drop, a shipwreck at 33m and over 230 species of marine life on your doorstep.
Then a short flight to Hakuraa Huraa, which I have to say is my favourite. A tiny resort, with an adjoining Platinum Island for extra Adult Only exclusivity.
And finally... the lovely Velifushi resort, again with a fabulous house reef teaming with activity day and night and lots of very private areas and beach bungalows to deliver that desert island feeling.
Each has it's own identity for sure...
Dhonveli for families and surf dudes, great selection of bars and restaurants too.
Ellaidhoo has to be for the best snorkelling, authenticated by a fellow traveller that has done hundreds of dives across the archipelago, and a marine biologist that said its her favourite across the Maldives!
Hakuraa Huraa for private island luxury, fabulous dining and lovely lagoon. The sunset cruise to see the dolphins was very special indeed.
Velifushi for wellness in their gorgeous spa, a great house reef for snorkelling and stretching coastlines of white sands.
The senses
The sand was the texture of icing sugar, and the team made it look perfect for the start of every day.
At Velifushi your welcome is all about sounds, smells and tastes.
The wonder of the oceans
Ellaidhoo simply blows your mind for snorkelling. You simply have to do a guided night snorkel with a torch, so peaceful, so crystal clear and alive with sharks and rays (safe ones) at night.
In Velifushi a swim with over 40 Nurse sharks all at once. Words fail me on that..!
The Culture and service
World class across all 4 resorts, the team are truly delighted to see you, assist in any way and cannot do enough to help you holiday.
Food
The variety and quality was excellent, sailfish, lobster, floating breakfasts and most resorts cultivate all of their own herbs and more! A breakfast cooking demonstration in the herb gardens of Hakuraa Huraa was fab.
The dry season is generally December to April, as expected this is more premium in pricing due to demand.
Great value is found in May, June and November. I had a few stormy nights and I think one cloudy/rainy day across my 9 day stay, but it is pot luck I guess.
There are direct flights which are circa. 10-11hrs, so this is best.
Indirect will offer more value, but ask us about the best timings and layovers, as this is key.
