Top 5 wellness retreats in Maldives to R&R
Suffering from stress or looking for an island retreat now that we can finally travel again? Either way, here are some top wellness retreats in Island Paradise when planning for your next getaway
Text: Shin Yee Koh
Silvery sand and crystal clear waters - a Maldivian trademark
Alternate forms of healing and wellness beyond just the traditional yoga or meditation sessions are all the rage. Brought on by increased awareness of our health, conscious travellers have started to seek a more holistic approach to wellness. For that reason, wellness tourism is growing exponentially all over the world, with Maldives at its epicentre. Is there any wonder, though? The breath-taking view of the crystalline Indian Ocean combined with constantly evolving treatments (and expert masseurs) to nourish the body are enough to entice anybody looking to rest and relax on an island retreat. Here are some of the highlights across the ocean to spark your interest:
The perfect embodiment of their ethos, COMO Cocoa Island promises what few luxury Maldivian resorts can truly provide: peacefulness, privacy and the opportunity to do very little but relax. They emphasise a holistic approach to wellness through Asian-based therapies, with recommendations made by seasoned professionals according to your body's specific requirements. Internationally accredited teachers are available upon request to guide you through private sessions of yoga and Pilates. You can even book carefully curated spa packages for rejuvenation or opt for yoga sessions while the sun sets for a more fitness-centric path. COMO uses natural sea ingredients, exotic plant extracts, algae and sea salt, organic ingredients perfect for slugging out on a massage table or on a daybed staring out at the hypnotic azure ocean.
Intimate private villas at COMO
2. The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives
Priding themselves on making their guests’ dreams a reality, The Standard offers a unique mix of relaxation, socialising and adventure for every guest - travellers looking for a little more excitement will be thoroughly satisfied by the activities offered at The Standard. Invigorating luxe spa sessions are The Standard Spa's trademark, so make sure you pop in for their After Sun treatment once you're done splashing with manta rays in the sparkling blue waters. The Standard has also welcomed wellness master Vipin Raj in an exclusive 6-week residency to offer guests a complimentary 20-minute lifestyle consultation. Few therapists practice Marma body alignment due to the high risk involved, but guests staying at The Standard can celebrate - Vipin acquired the skills needed from a legendary practitioner in India and combined chakra balancing with the treatment to provide remarkable recovery for the body.
A luxe stay at The Standard
3. Conrad Maldives, Rangali Island
Perched on two idyllic islands connected by a 500m bridge, Conrad Maldives is a tranquil and sophisticated Maldivian sanctuary, home to the world's first underwater villa, a two-level structure featuring an undersea suite designed for sleeping under the ocean's surface. It's perfect for those struggling with insomnia – the crash of ocean waves has been proven to be effective in lulling us to sleep. Famed for being a destination spa resort, there's no skimping on the products used in their spa treatments. An impressive line-up of award-winning brands is guaranteed to enhance your body and soul with individualised spa experiences. Of course, no spa experience is complete without pampering your hair and nails – Conrad Maldives has a team of expert stylists and manicurists ready to give you the experience of a lifetime.
Spend tranquil nights at Conrad
With three different islands under Anantara Maldives, each boasting its individual style, you can find your rhythm on the island of your choice. Anantara offers its signature three-tiered programmes across its three different resorts. Upon request, expert practitioners provide consultations to gauge your personal needs. Based on balanced wellness – a notion that aims to balance mental and physical health using cuisine, spa treatments, and dynamic or mindful exercise - their programmes offer a flexible approach to feeling good on holidays rather than an immersion boot camp-style programme. You can split your precious vacation time between wellness activities, regular leisure activities, and sightseeing. Embark on a journey to connect with your spiritual side through pranayama breathing, chakra alignment and ayurvedic treatments – like a Shirodhara service to open the third eye.
Embrace your spirituality at Anantara
Set on an enchanting private island in the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll in the Maldives, the adults-only Hurawalhi Island Resort is perfect for couples searching to reconnect with their senses or for some dream-like serenity. Throughout the year, Hurawalhi Maldives regularly introduces a series of wellness retreats for you to harmonise with the healing nature of the lapping sapphire waves. Alongside the massages, facials and scrubs, the treatments menu also offers unique, innovative options. The African Pinotage Body Contour Ritual centres around the use of the African Potato Balm – a natural remedy abundant with oxidants. Sound healing, on the other hand, features Himalayan singing bowls, which help you sink into a restful, meditative state. Personally, I find footprint therapy the most intriguing – it's a therapy session that focuses on your feet, stimulating blood and lymphatic flow to reduce water retention.
Reconnect with your partner at the Hurawalhi Island Resort
From wellness activities to relaxing spa sessions with premium ingredients, you’ll be spoiled for choice. It can be difficult to choose, but these island resorts all ultimately offer stunning views and impeccable service – the perfect sanctuary to heal your mind and soul. So in other words? There is no wrong choice. Happy travels!
