Stevie Mann/Courtesy of Soneva
Theres nothing quite like a seaplane ride in the Maldives.
A resort 30 years in the making, owners Sonu and Eva ( Soneva, get it?)
Shivdasani had been looking for the perfect location for the resort of their dreams.
Credit:Stevie Mann/Courtesy of Soneva
They found it on the uber-remote atoll of Makunudhoo, where theyve just opened its first resort.
Once the seaplane touches down atSoneva Secret, its pure pampering from dawn to dusk.
I boarded the speedboat, where my dedicated butler, Efro, asked for my sandals.
Stevie Mann/Courtesy of Soneva
These nearly 5,000-square-foot overwater mansions are better stocked than most homes.
Activities like diving a nearby shipwreck, a private movie screening, or a deserted island picnic are available.
You dream it, and the team here will make it happen.
Stevie Mann/Courtesy of Soneva
Read my full review for the Maldives resort that ups the luxury ante on an already-opulent resort destination.
Soneva Secret
The Rooms
Rooms here are more like palaces.
Its two residences are double the size but look and feel the same.
So basically, you never have to leave your villa.
Another over-the-top yet whimsical feature is the retractable roofs above the primary bed.
The only difference between the overwater and beach villas is the waterslides a fun addition for kids and adults.
Food and Drink
This is arguably the resort’s USP, or unique selling point.
Guests can request Indonesian for breakfast, Italian for lunch, or Japanese for dinner.
Its signature celestial-themed restaurant, Out of This World, starts with a ride on the countrys longest zipline.
Afterward, take in the stars with the resorts resident astronomer.
Spend days snorkeling or diving with the resorts marine biologist or using any of Secrets motorized or non-motorized toys.
Try your hand at traditional weaving, visit the atolls local island, or plant coral.
Guests can also try the Secret Day option, a tailor-made itinerary designed just for you.
The Spa
There’s a small thatched roof island spa suitable for couples treatments.
The spa has nine pages of treatment options for kids and adults, including body scrubs and sleep rituals.
Family-friendly Offerings
While this resort does feel more suited to couples, its also made for families.
Various daily activities include scavenger hunts, mini Zumba classes, cupcake baking, ziplining, and kite making.
Accessibility and Sustainability
The resort is not ADA-compliant, but it is extremely sustainable.
Soneva is one of the worlds most eco-conscious hotel brands.
Plans include three floating solar farms that will power up to 85 percent of the resort.
Location
Guests can reach Dhipparufushi Island in the countrys northwest via a 70-minute seaplane ride from Male.
