A Luxurious Escape: My Stay at the Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort

Arrival and First Impressions

From the moment I stepped off the seaplane, I felt like I had entered a paradise. The aerial views during the transfer were just a teaser of the beauty that awaited. The lovely welcome ceremony by the staff, complete with refreshing drinks and cool towels, made me feel instantly at home.

Accommodation Options

The resort offers a variety of luxurious accommodation options to suit different preferences. I stayed in a Beach Villa, which was an absolute delight. Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves and stepping out onto the soft, white sand right from your doorstep. The villa was spacious and beautifully designed, blending luxury with a cozy, homey feel. I loved lounging on my terrace, surrounded by lush greenery and the stunning beach just a few steps away. For those who prefer direct lagoon access, the Overwater Villas are ideal, offering the sound of the ocean and stunning views. The Lagoon Beach Villas provide a unique blend of beach and overwater experiences, perfect for those torn between the two. For the ultimate in luxury, the resort offers multi-bedroom Residences with private pools and expansive living spaces.

Dining Delights

The dining experiences were nothing short of spectacular. My absolute favourite was the Fish Market, where I enjoyed fresh seafood expertly prepared while watching the sun set over the ocean. Another standout was The Lighthouse Restaurant, an overwater specialty restaurant offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes with breathtaking 360-degree ocean views. Starting the evening with a pre-dinner drink at the top of the Lighthouse, followed by a meal crafted from the finest seasonal ingredients, was an unforgettable experience. The warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with stunning ocean vistas, made it perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. Evenings at Café Umi were a culinary delight. The restaurant offers a gourmet menu that takes you on a journey around the world with a distinct Japanese influence. I savoured dishes like nigiri selections, soft shell crab tempura, and Wagyu beef tacos. The teppanyaki grill was a highlight, where chefs prepared meals with flair right in front of us. The combination of fresh ingredients and expert preparation made every meal a memorable experience. For a more casual dining option, the handmade pizzas at The Collective were perfect for a relaxed lunch by the pool.

Club InterContinental Benefits

One of the highlights of my stay was enjoying the exclusive Club InterContinental benefits. These perks added an extra layer of luxury to my experience. Every afternoon, I indulged in a delightful selection of teas, pastries, and finger sandwiches at The Retreat or Collective. It was the perfect way to relax and recharge after a morning of activities. As the sun set, I enjoyed a complimentary evening aperitif at the Pool Bar. The selection of cocktails and canapés, paired with the stunning sunset views, made for a perfect pre-dinner experience. Throughout the day, I had access to all-day refreshments at The Retreat and The Pool Bar. Whether I wanted a refreshing drink or a light snack, everything was readily available.

Sunrise Yoga

One of the most serene experiences was the sunrise yoga sessions. Held on the beach, these sessions provided a perfect start to the day. The gentle sound of the waves and the first light of dawn created a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for connecting mind, body, and spirit. The skilled yogi guided us through various poses, helping to rejuvenate and energize for the day ahead.

The Retreat: An Adult-Only Oasis

For those seeking a peaceful escape, The Retreat is an adult-only enclave that offers a serene and sophisticated atmosphere. Nestled at the base of the lagoon, this exclusive area features a private pool, luxurious loungers, and stunning views of the deep blue lagoon. It was the perfect spot to unwind, read a book, or simply soak up the sun in a tranquil setting. The Retreat also offers personalized service, ensuring that every need is met with the utmost care and attention.

Fun for Children and Teenagers

The resort is a paradise for families, offering a wide range of activities for children and teenagers. The Planet Trekkers Kids Club provides a variety of fun and educational activities for younger guests. From arts and crafts to treasure hunts and nature walks, there’s always something exciting happening. Designed specifically for teenagers, the Teens Club offers a range of activities tailored to their interests. They can participate in cooking classes, learn to make mocktails, or join in on water sports like snorkelling and paddleboarding. Teens can dive into thrilling water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, and even get their diving certification. The resort also offers a five-day water sports program that includes motorized activities like jet skiing and water-skiing. Teens can explore local Maldivian culture through arts and crafts sessions, Boduberu drum try outs, and environmental activities like the Manta Teen Talk Tea and Climate Warriors. There are plenty of opportunities for teens to socialize and have fun with peers through activities like aqua aerobics, fishing trips, and beach BBQs. Evening movie nights under the stars are also a hit, complete with popcorn and soft drinks.

Adventures and Relaxation

One of the most memorable experiences was the Manta Ray excursion. Swimming alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat was truly awe-inspiring. The resort collaborates with the Manta Trust, a leading manta ray research organization, to offer guests educational talks and guided snorkelling trips. I even had the chance to name a manta ray and receive updates on its whereabouts from the Manta Trust team. This experience not only allowed me to witness these majestic creatures up close but also contributed to their conservation. For those who love water sports, the resort offers a fantastic range of activities. I enjoyed stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, which were both exhilarating and peaceful. The resort also provides windsurfing and snorkelling for those looking to explore the vibrant marine life. For a bit more adventure, there are jet skis, sea bobs, and water-skiing available for an additional fee. Each activity offered a unique way to experience the stunning surroundings and crystal-clear waters.

Spa Bliss

The AVI Spa was my sanctuary. I treated myself to a massage, and it was heavenly. The serene setting and skilled therapists made it an unforgettable experience. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge.

A Commitment to Sustainability

I was really impressed by the resort’s sustainability efforts. They have initiatives like coral planting and reducing plastic use, which made my stay feel even more meaningful. It’s great to see luxury and sustainability go hand in hand.

Final Thoughts

My stay at the Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort was everything I dreamed of and more. The luxurious accommodations, incredible dining, and endless activities made it a perfect getaway. I left feeling rejuvenated and already planning my next visit. If you’re looking for a slice of paradise, this is it.