Winter 2019

74 1806LU04 The recognition of a dream to create a “beyond luxury” exclusive boutique hideaway, Velaa Private Island is the epitome of luxurious living. Embodying the very best of the unique archipelago of Maldives, this verdant oasis floats on the tranquil, aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean. Located in the gorgeous Noonu Atoll, approximately 187 kilometres north of Malé, Velaa Private Island Maldives is an exquisite resort where guests are treated like royalty. Designed with privacy, comfort and luxury as the guiding principles, each of the villas on the island are meticulously-constructed using natural materials. Blending together sensory exploration with contemporary architecture, the magnificent Indian Ocean is permitted to take centre stage within this idyllic haven. Sharing its name with generations of sea turtles that return to nest and hatch every year, Velaa uses the colours and patterns of a turtle shell to make up subtle nuances in the design. From an aerial angle, the over-water villas appear to resemble the head of a turtle, whilst the island forms the body. Developed by Czech architect Petr Kolár, the overall concept of the Island is one that blends modern touches and intimate themes with Maldivian inspirations. Designed to be politely luxurious, but also versatile enough to provide a number of firstclass enjoyment opportunities and activities, Velaa was the dream of its owners Radka and Jirí Smejc. The islands in the Maldives became their passion during various business trips between Europe and Asia. However, each one fell short in some way regarding the visitor experience that they valued. Thus, Velaa was born, uniting the various threads of inspiration into one enticing tapestry. A wide selection of elegant beach and water villas are available for guests to book at Velaa, each one provides breath-taking views of the pristine turquoise sea alongside sophisticated and sleek spaces. Beach Pool Villas are intricately decorated with mahogany wood imparting a colonial feel, while sumptuous bamboo and teak furniture bring the beauty of nature inside. Complete with wall-to-wall glass doors for light, seclusion is maintained by clusters of palm trees focusing guests’ attention on the pure white sandy beaches and azure waters. The dreamlike Sunset Deluxe Water Pool Villas feature uninterrupted ocean views and private pools facing the sunset. The sun deck has steps leading into the cool lagoon, and, beneath a gazebo, there is a vast daybed with pillows strewn across it to capitalise on those perfect final moments of daylight. The spacious interior living area features its own bar complete with wine fridge for guests to indulge in a fine drop from Velaa’s impressive wine cellar which spans over 1,000 prestigious labels. For those seeking an active holiday, Velaa is not short of activities and things to do during a stay. The Island offers various water sports including sailing, jetskiing, paddle boarding, kayaking and kitesurfing. Of particular note is the extensive range of hydro-flight toys and a semi-submarine that can enable deeper exploration of the coral reefs that are teeming with marine life. Guests also have access to PADI diving courses, private snorkelling excursions with the resident Marine Biologist and sunset dolphinwatching cruises, in addition to various landbased sports such as yoga, tennis, squash, badminton, beach volleyball and a six-metre climbing wall. Designed to create bespoke golfing memories, the Velaa Golf Academy designed by José María Olazábal comprises of nine different tees, six greens, seven bunkers and a lake, all providing an unrivalled backdrop for golfers to develop their game. With a PGA-qualified instructor onsite to coach players of all levels, this exceptional addition truly showcases the resort’s next-level approach to service and novel experiences. For a more relaxing way to pass the time, Velaa’s over-water spa offers a deeply immersive space to help guests rediscover their inner peace and spiritual well-being. Utilising a holistic approach to wellness, treatments include a variety of Asianinspired massages, Ayurveda and ancient healing techniques such as Reiki. Guests can also experience innovative facilities such as the Maldives’ only snow room and Cloud 9 pod. Private Paradise is the Perfect Luxury Hideaway

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