Review: Makunudu Island, Maldives
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I’ve found a hidden luxury gem I’m delighted to tell you about, a little slice of untouched paradise hidden within the breathtaking coral reefs of the Indian Ocean. It’s an exclusive resort in the Maldives called Makunudu Island in the Kaafu Atoll region.

If you like to escape to untouched desert island paradises (and who truthfully doesn’t?) that offer you genuine, friendly island hospitality and a real escape from your 9-to 5 grind, then this is a tropical hideaway to add to your list. Small enough to feel like you have the island to yourself yet large enough to enjoy all the luxuries and service of a luxury resort, Makunudu truly offers you an idyllic island escape.

Location

Situated in the Northern Malé Atoll of the Maldives, surrounded by its own beautiful reef, Makunudu is an exclusive hideaway in the Indian Ocean. The resort is set amidst six acres of lush green tropical palms and sandy beaches surrounded by sparkling turquoise seas.

Your James Bond-esque experience begins from Male International Airport with an exhilarating 50-minute speedboat ride to take you to your new island home.

Style & Character

The resort comprises 36 adorable little Maldivian-style beachfront bungalows that truly look like something from a wonderful storybook. They are circular with beautiful thatched palm roofs, and they remind me of Dr. Who’s Tardis as they feel much more spacious inside than you first suspect.

Rooms

Beautifully blending rustic island charm with modern comforts, these bungalows offer you everything you could need on an island escape, including a fabulous garden shower – open to the outdoors – but thankfully completely private too.

Your bungalow includes a bedroom, private seating area, sun loungers for sunbathing (or enjoying a cocktail while watching a spectacular sunset), a desk, wardrobe, air conditioning, ceiling fan, mini-bar, safe, tea and coffee facilities, and bathroom with hairdryer and island-inspired bathroom amenities – and all of this is steps away from the whites sands and crystal clear Indian Ocean.

Service & Facilities

There is plenty to do on the island, from exploring the clear Maldivian waters and coral reefs on your bungalow doorstep (including swimming with turtles) to trying a free introductory dive or exploring spectacular nearby dive sites. Other opportunities include windsurfing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, canoeing, catamaran sailing, and night fishing on a traditional dhoni.

If you want to take the experience of calm and tranquillity even further, you can visit the resort’s Aavun Spa, which offers combinations of Maldivian, Asian, and European wellness techniques and traditions. Spa tip: Try a Maldivian seashell massage, it’s something unique, and the scent of indigenous coconut oil is divine.

The resort also offers a library and TV room, Cyber Café, Feyli Boutique (for clothing and gifts), laundry services, volleyball, badminton, and table tennis. It will soon offer Wi-Fi in all public areas too.

Food & Drink

The resort features the Ara Iru, meaning rising sun in Dhivehi, Restaurant that serves both local delicacies and international dishes in sumptuous buffets, table-served set menus, and a once-a-week sizzling barbecue and magnificent Maldivian buffet dinner. The Sand Bar serves ice-cold sunset cocktails, refreshing beers, wines, and soft drinks (tip: try the delicious Chilean white!). If you want to try something a little special, and I suggest you do – the resort can also arrange candlelit beach dinners beneath the stars with the ocean lapping at your feet, private dinners in your bungalow, sunset champagne cruises on the deck of a dhoni, or a private champagne lunch on a secluded sandbank – whatever you desire, the staff at Makunudu Island will make it their mission to exceed your expectations.

Conclusion

I often mention it’s the little touches that can turn a simple holiday into a lasting lifetime memory, and it’s just these touches that you get at Makunudu, from little birthday and anniversary surprises to the dock lined with members of the team to wave you off when you depart. So, if you’re looking for a slice of paradise with glistening beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters mixed with wonderfully friendly island hospitality, Makunudu is the perfect island for you.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

Location