Shangri-La's Villingili Resort and Spa
Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa is in a
unique location, south of the equator and away from the heavily
resort-populated Maldivian atolls. Its a wonderfully lush green island, with plenty
of space and boasts some of the most unspoilt diving in the Maldives.
The resort comprises of 134 villas, most of which feature their own private
pool. Choose from villas directly on the beach; set slightly back amongst the
foliage or built on stilts over the water. Its worth upgrading to the Ocean
View Villas, perched on stilts three metres above the ground with uninterrupted
ocean views. But you cant beat the ultra private, unique Tree House Villas,
set on stilts amongst the treetops with panoramic views from the elevated
infinity pool.
Aside from the all-day restaurant and casual dining in the resort bars, Dr.
Alis serves cuisine from the Indian Ocean, South China Sea and Arabian Gulf in
three distinct dining rooms and there's a fine dining restaurant. If you're looking for something more private then book
one of the bespoke Dining By Design experiences which include a spa dinner in
the meditation pavilion, dinner served in the chefs garden using local
ingredients and a torchlit dinner in a jungle clearing.
Spend your days following the underwater nature trail and snorkelling the
unspoilt coral gardens; take a picnic and explore Maldivian villages on
neighbouring islands by bicycle; join the weekly tour in the resorts jungle;
improve your tennis with lessons from a pro or relax with a treatment at the
secluded CHI, The Spa. Children will
love the fun activities " cooking, crab racing, jungle adventures - in the Cool
Zone.
70 minutes by domestic flight from Male International
Airport to Gan, followed by a 10 minute speedboat transfer.
QT Insider
For a true sense of place, grab a bike and explore the 5 neighbouring islands (connected by a 17 km road). Visit historical sites dating back to the British presence during World War II; cycle through sleepy Maldivian villages and stop for a coffee and chat with the locals.
As far as lunch venues go they don't get more exotic and unique than on a luxury yacht cruising on the equator! Definitely one to make your friends envious!
Don't miss the opportunity to swim with giant manta rays and endangered large green turtles; get up close to spinner dolphins and dive nearby shipwrecks.
