Fifty shades OF BLUE

On a tiny isle in the Raa Atoll in Northern Maldives, you’ll discover a premium, all-inclusive resort with a big appetite for culinary success.

Heritance Aarah had barely been open 12 weeks when it won its first culinary award. A year later it took out the most medals of any Asian hotel at the prestigious IKA Culinary Olympics 2020. Fast forward to today, and it’s still reaping the culinary rewards, most recently at the World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2022.

Director of Business Development

Kirsty Thomas-Thoeun says many resorts wax lyrical about being all-inclusive, but Heritance Aarah lives by it.

“The resort’s premium beverage list is immense. There’s a sommelier on site who has created a curated wine list of 60 wines and 60 cocktails; and premium champagne is on offer at all the bars. It’s sure to delight any wine buff, whisky or cocktail connoisseur.”

Guests are spoilt for choice with seven eateries, ranging from casual to fine dining. East meets west at beachside Ranba; Ralu is inspired by French and Mediterranean brasseries along the Riviera Coast while fine-dining restaurant Ambula features an explosion of Sri Lankan spices and Maldivian flavours, and has a tasting menu paired with wines and local cocktails.

While away your days

Days can easily be spent lazing poolside, gazing across the cerulean waters, but there are myriad other ways to immerse yourself in this magical destination. A house reef means there’s kaleidoscopic marine life just metres from shore. Even novice divers are enticed by the azure waters and wonder-filled world that lies beneath (and an introductory dive is free) and there’s the comfort that experienced staff are on hand to guide them. Catamarans, paddle boarding, and kite or windsurfing are available for those looking to get active on the water, but if you do choose to stay on shore, peel yourself away from the picture-perfect landscape long enough to explore the Medi Spa (Maldives first). Along with massages (one is complimentary), scrubs and facials, the overwater spa offers micro-cosmetic procedures such as nano or microneedling facial therapies, skin-rejuvenating treatments, and non-surgical facelifts using ultrasound technology.

Family affair

Heritance Aarah appeals as much to honeymooners as it does to families thanks to the considered accommodation which is split into two areas – the beach side and the ocean wing. Privacy and seclusion are assured for those in the ocean suites, while for families there’s plenty to keep children occupied beach side.

At the kids’ club, activities change daily from making piñatas and learning Dhivehi (the local language) to disco parties. For teens, there’s a games and activity room, as well as tennis, badminton, volleyball and a full soccer pitch, with an in-house team always up for a friendly game.

Families wanting a taste of the local culture can head to the on-site Maldivian village – a recreation of local life that serves to preserve the 3,000-year-old culture. heritancehotels.com/aarah 01 Villas are spread out across two areas of the resort 02 It’s serenity plus at the Ocean Residences 03 Dine overlooking the floatng infinity pool 04 Culinary is king at Heritance Aarah, and it has the awards to back it. 01 - 04 © Yashlightroom

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