Where to begin… The Maldives has always been somewhere I’ve only ever dreamed about. I pictured an island in the middle of the Indian ocean with powdery white sand lined with tall palm trees that looked out to the bluest of blue waters all while staying at a five star resort. That imagination became a reality during a stay at one of the best resorts in the Maldives, Dhigufaru Island Resort.
From the moment we stepped off the plane in Malé we received a very warm welcome from a Dhigufaru representative who met us at arrivals and showed us to the seaplane. Upon arrival to the island, every head of management, including Ally the General Manager, was there to greet us, as was the resorts Boduberu drummer. I’m still trying to find the words to describe my experience, the service was exceptional from start to finish…
an unforgettable ocean villa
Dhigufaru is nestled on the protected Biosphere reserve of Baa Atoll and prides itself on being a destination that offers guests the perfect balance of both a relaxation and adventure. The resort has been built on a private island and features 85 rooms in total, each evenly located along the perimeter of the island, allowing guests to experience the island and its unique features, feeling as though they’re the only ones there.
Accommodation options include beach front villas, semi-water and overwater villas. I had the opportunity to stay in one of their luxurious Findhanfulhu overwater villas. Situated on stilt platforms, these unforgettable water villas are spacious, upscale and have their own staircase on the deck giving guests direct access to the Indian Ocean. In the morning we could wake up and walk straight out for a sunrise swim.
The bedroom is tastefully decorated and features a large king sized bed in the centre of the room surrounded by elegant high ceilings and floor to ceiling windows with views of the ocean. You can upgrade to Bodhanfulhu pool water villa which has its own private pool.
experience lifetime adventures
An adventure is never far away at Dhigufaru and given the size of the island you only need your bare feet to get around. It’s actually encouraged to wear no shoes – nothing has ever felt better. I loved that it only took 10 minutes to walk the perimeter of the island.
With the resort being inside the Maldives only UNESCO biosphere it’s only right for Dhigufaru to be home of a world class water sports and dive centre. The water sports centre provides all of the equipment you’d need, from daring sports like kite surfing, windsurfing and water skying, to the more calmer activities including paddle boards, canoeing, snorkelling and scuba diving.
The huge reef at Dhigufaru provides a perfect setting to explore the amazing marine life. The reef is shallow, sheltered from wind and full of colour. If you’re feeling brave you can always head out and explore other reefs with an experienced Dhigufaru guide. You’ll have a chance of spotting turtles, reef sharks, sting rays, dolphins and manta rays!
After time spent at sea you might fancy a refreshing dip in Dhigufaru’s pool, perched on the powdery white sand with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. It makes for the perfect spot to enjoy a fresh coconut.
see the islands string rays
If you’re wandering the main boardwalk at Dhigufaru around 4:30pm you’ll notice some hungry stingrays lingering in the water below, waiting patiently for their dinner. Every evening at 5pm without fail the team will invite guests to head down to the sandy shoreline to watch as they feed the stingrays. If you want to get close to marine life without getting in the water this is an incredible experience. If you’re lucky you might even spot some sharks.
unwind at Funa Spa
If you really want to relax then a massage might just be what you’re looking for. Funa Spa at Dhigufaru offers an array of exceptional treatments and services for guests looking to recharge and unwind after a busy day exploring the island. You can’t travel all the way to the Maldives and not experience a massage right?
The spa treatments take place in private cabanas enclosed within a tranquil garden, allowing guests to have full privacy when enjoying complete relaxation.
every foodies heaven
If you love food just like me, you’re in for a treat! Dhigufaru boosts three dining areas across the island, each designed with their own individual character and each having mastered the art of a delicious meal.
Dhandifulhu Restaurant is the islands main restaurant and will no doubt take your breath away with its stunning panoramic views of the ocean. The restaurant gives guests the opportunity to taste flavours from every corner of the world with a different dinner theme changing each evening. One of which was its own dedicated Maldivian night where the staff would dress in traditional Maldivian attire and perform traditional Maldivian music for guests. In addition to dinner, the restaurant laid on the most impressive breakfast and lunch spreads I’ve ever seen. As soon as I’d finished one meal I was already looking forward to the next. The restaurant has its own bar, Raagudi Bar where guests can enjoy a wide selection of refreshing beverages.
If you’re looking for a more intimate dining experience, Athiri Speciality Restaurant is located on the other side of the island over the water with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. It is the perfect place to experience the seafood and Japanese specialty whilst watching the sun set.
For a more relaxed setting, Thundi Pool Bar is your go-to. Here guests can order bistro style cuisines and finger food paired with your favourite cocktail of course. I was lucky enough to enjoy a floating breakfast one morning in the pool. Eating or not, this space is the perfect spot to spend your day lounging by the pool and with easy access to the sea. Come nightfall, Thundi Pool Bar is where guests go for the evening entertainment which includes karaoke, movie night, live music, divers night and more.
I have to mention that all of Dhigufaru’s staff, chefs and servers were remarkable. Everyone was unbelievably attentive, my water glass was never empty and there was never a dirty plate left on the table. They always had a smile on their face and were dedicated to ensuring guests were having the best stay. They truly would move mountains for you.
The Maldives has been on my bucket list for so long and I could not think of a better place to first experience this beautiful country than Dhigufaru Island Resort. The five star stay was everything I imagined the Maldives to be and more. The resort, the team, the food and let’s not forget the views made for an unforgettable lifetime experience. I hope to have the opportunity to visit again one day. If you get the chance to visit the Maldives then treat yourself to a stay at Dhigufaru. For the best deal contact the resort directly and the team will be there to help create the ultimate package for you.
