Time for a time-out? Then it should be absolutely special – with experiences and gourmet delights, far from the well-trodden paths. Our proposal: combine a dream island feeling with pioneering spirit. The Fari Islands are four new – and we really mean new in the sense of 'not there previously' – islands in the North Malé atoll of the Maldives. Creativity, aspiration and mindfulness characterise the artificially created new land which rests on the subterranean coral reef and now rises over the Indian Ocean, constructed with sand from the depths of the sea and sumptuously planted. As well as inspiring hospitality, an important contribution to sustainable land acquisition has been achieved.
Maldives
Republic of the Maldives
1,190 islands, 30 % inhabited
Population
540,000, 1/3 of them on Malé
Total surface area
approx. 90,000 km2, 99 % water
approx. 644 km
coastline in total
on average 2 m above sea level
lowest lying country in the world
4 international airports
13 domestic airports
> 2,000 species of fish
including shark, skate, butterfly fish
Turquoise-coloured sea, white sand, green palm trees and spectacular diving grounds: The paradise islands of the Maldives have been one of the most coveted tourist destinations for decades. Over a distance of 870 km from north to south and 125 km from west to east, almost 1,200 coral islands string together like pearls, forming the 26 atolls of the Indian Ocean. The land area is only 0.33 percent of the island state. And of this, only 30 percent is inhabited. The island of Malé is the capital and also the economic centre. Urbanity and colourful vitality rule here – with commercial and residential quarters, high-rise buildings, hospitals, container ports and marinas. Around 40 percent of the inhabited islands are completely dedicated to tourism. Wonderful accommodation from casual to luxurious creates the perfect holiday flair in the centre of this unique nature idyll with coral reefs abundant in fish. To meet the growing numbers of guests and, at the same time, retain the habitat of the locals, it was decided to acquire the new land of the Fari Islands – an innovative and sustainable decision which created new space for resorts that redefine luxury and comfort.
Fari Islands
SUSTAINABLY BUILT ON SAND
Four islands, three luxury resorts, a lively centre with boutiques, gastronomic variety and marina as well as a high-quality campus for the employees: that’s the concept of the Fari Islands. The boat transfer from Malé to this picturesque new island landscape takes only 45 minutes; only the slightly more coarsely-grained sand bears witness to its artificial origins. Two of the exclusive 5-star resorts have already been opened; the third one, from the brand Capella, will probably be opening in 2025. The luxury hotels that are open already are owned by the brands Patina and The Ritz-Carlton. Both have an impressive holistic concept and the highest level of exclusivity, but their own distinct style, dimensions and design. Both are well worth seeing and getting to know.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives is part of the archipelago and definitely a must-see. In this somewhat smaller luxury resort, which stretches out across a three-part island and a lagoon, no desires are left unfulfilled: you stay in spectacular villas directly on the water, which either face the ocean or are grouped in a wide arc across the turquoise blue lagoon. Those who want a little more space simply choose one of the exclusive properties that lie embedded along the sandy white bays surrounded by greenery. No matter which accommodation you choose, they all fascinate with handpicked elegant furnishings that create an outstanding accommodation with open sight lines. The amenities include an integrated private pool in every property; in the ocean front and lagoon villas this is located on the raised sun roof as an infinity pool. A lower platform makes it possible to take a dip in the sea where you can enjoy up close the company of colourful swarms of fish – and sometimes even young sharks.
Enjoy relaxation and the beauties of nature or active lifestyle experiences: on the Fari Islands everything is possible. A place where luxury and sustainability find a perfect balance.
Away from the villas there is plenty to discover: seven restaurants and bars pamper the guests with excellent cuisine and select wines. Italian espresso in the morning, Cantonese tapas in the afternoon and a first-class set meal with Indian or Lebanese specialities for dinner: diversity of gourmet delights is on the programme; in addition, it’s also possible to take the shuttle to the restaurants of Fari Marina. To offset this indulgence, you can train in the fitness centre, play tennis, go kayaking – or cycle across the island. And to round everything off, also in the water and located in the centre of water villas, you should visit the circular spa where you will be pampered with top-class treatments and can relax in a delightful atmosphere after an active day. The conclusion is clear: The Fari Islands offer feelgood island retreats and the knowledge that luxury can also be sustainable.
