Tried & Tested: The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

An idyllic haven in the heart of The Maldives, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort offers the ultimate in contemporary luxury.

Arrival at the Velana International Airport is the smoothest of journeys thanks to the St Regis Lounge where guests will be welcomed as they wait for their seaplane. If you haven’t travelled by seaplane before, get ready for an exciting experience. A short flight away you’ll find yourself landing in a blue oasis that feels a million miles away from civilisation.

Immediately you’ll feel relaxed. The St. Regis Maldives Resort is situated on the private island of Vommuli in the Dhaalu Atoll, also known as Southern Nilandhe Atoll, it’s one of the most southern inhabited islands and features its own unique natural elements. You’ll instantly notice the modern architecture and interior design, which features elements of tradition and local culture, and the values of St. Regis the brand.

With an eco-friendly design, sustainability is a priority on the island and you will instantly notice some of the practices that have been put into place to support this. As a light breeze flows through the resort you’ll be invited to relax by the friendly staff as they make your experience as smooth as possible from the very beginning.

Rooms & Suites

With a unique modern design, the rooms at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort are unlike any others in the area. With sustainability at the heart of everything that’s done here, the rooms are designed to be ecologically friendly. Comprising of 44 overwater villas and 33 beach villas surrounded by serene blue waters or lush green gardens depending on your preference. For those like us, who are travelling with family, the two-bedroom Sunset Overwater Villas or the Two Bedroom Beach Villas are perfect.

Each comes with its own private pool and terrace as well as plenty of space for everyone to relax. Inside the rooms, you’ll find state of the art technology including a St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort and super-fast WiFi (a must for those of us who need to always be connected). We fell in love with the interior design which is modern with a touch of island elegance.

Light furnishings with wooden details and hints of blue tones connect the outside and inside, making this the perfect haven for relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere. Each villa has a private butler service. Your butler will be on hand to handle any request throughout your stay.

For large groups, the resort is readily equipped thanks to its large accommodation options. The Caroline Astor Estate comprises three beachfront bedrooms and a 67-square-metre private swimming pool. While for the ultimate indulgent experience the John Jacob Astor Estate is the largest three-bedroom overwater villa in the Maldives.

Named after the chain’s founder this huge presidential villa features a private gym, cinema room, spa suites, staff quarters and a 92-square-metre infinity pool plus a private jacuzzi and two plunge pools. It really is the ultimate in luxury and perfect for large family stays with space for up to 12 people.

Food & Dining

When staying at a resort that offers the best in luxury experiences, it goes without saying that the food is going to be out of this world. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort doesn’t disappoint when it comes to dining. If you’re travelling with kids, then a visit to Crust is a must. The pizzeria invites guests to design their own pizza from a selection of available toppings and it will be cooked to order.

For something more formal Decanter, the subterranean restaurant offers a unique five-course dining experience that you won’t forget. Alba presents modern interpretations of Italian classics, offering dishes with locally sourced produce, while Orientale offers a new take on oriental dishes including a pan-Asian selection and a sushi bar. And for those looking for something extra special, there are numerous private dining experiences that can be arranged around the island. From dinner under the stars on the white sandy beaches to a private sandbank picnic in the middle of the Indian Ocean, no request is too much for the team at St. Regis.

Before or after eating we highly recommend paying a visit to the iconic Whale Bar. This overwater lounge is the iconic instantly recognisable whale-shaped structure that makes up the beating heart of the resort. If you happen to be visiting at sunset you will have the joy of experiencing a very special sparkling grape ceremony that The St. Regis has been known for across the world. Relaxing at sunset in this location is a truly special experience that you won’t forget.

Spa & Wellness

No trip to the Maldives is complete without a luxury spa experience and this is one that you won’t forget in a hurry. The Iridium Spa is situated atop the luscious blue ocean, with views out to sea and the sound of the waves relaxing your mind and body. With a treatment menu based around island life expect to feel whisked away to a tropical paradise. The 1,850-square-metre haven features elegant furnishings set against white oak interiors. Six treatment rooms, including two Ayurvedic suites with private steam rooms, are the perfect destination for the ultimate relaxation.

Highlight treatments include the Ayurvedic Shirodhara, the Caviar Journey and the Iridium Signature Touch which will offer a unique service for each and every guest. After your treatment, enjoy the Blue Hole Pool, one of the most expansive hydrotherapy pools in the Maldives and enjoy an array of whirlpool jets as you relax in peace. Aside from the space, the island salon, located in the Vommuli House provides all your hair, makeup and nail needs if you are looking for some extra pampering.

In the fitness centre you will discover a unique offering of amenities including Jumping Fitness; a dynamic fitness training system, fitness classes and an exercise room for activities including anti-gravity and laughing yoga. Outdoor tennis courts will offer a great wellness experience for all and a range of water sports are on offer for thrill-seekers and those looking for an adventure.

Activities for all the Family

When you’re in the Maldives there is no reason to get bored and at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, there are so many activities and experiences to satisfy any taste or need. Charter a private boat with your loved ones for a day or island hopping, sunset watching or dolphin spotting as you discover the beauty of the area. Head to the library where you will discover over 800 books to borrow throughout your stay. Cycle around the island and take in the luscious green landscape or enjoy snorkelling around the beautiful coral reef that surrounds the island.

For the little ones, the resort children’s club is designed to keep the little ones focused, engaged and entertained throughout their stay. Activities on offer include children’s yoga, painting, creative crafts, games and plenty of entertainment. The club is monitored at all times by professional childcare attendants. Carefully selected to reduce the risk of injury, all toys and furnishings are non-toxic and environmentally friendly. For teens, Socialite is a recreation area designed to offer an escape from reality. The games room features games included table tennis, pool and air hockey, as well as video and board games.