DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Velaa Private Island is a fairy-tale creation. After falling in love with the Maldives, Czech entrepreneur, Jiri Smejc, set out to create the jewel in the crown of the islands. He has succeeded. Set on Noonu Atoll, Velaa opened in January 2016, complete with a Golf Academy designed by Jose Maria Olazabal, an on-site marine biologist and the first ‘snow room’ in the Maldives.
As you’ll discover, Maldivian design, serene seclusion and wonderful service come together perfectly here. Your own butler will make settling into your beachside or over-water villa effortless, leaving you free to decide where to explore first. There are three restaurants in Velaa offering gourmet Modern European and East Asian dishes, but you may opt to dine privately, soaking in the breathtaking ocean views with an aperitif on your own terrace.
There’s no set definition of luxury at Velaa: you can enjoy your stay your way. You can keep to your fitness routine with a Technogym workout, or explore a new experience such as knee-boarding or diving with reef sharks. And if blissful privacy is your priority, you’ll find your three or four-bedroomed villa has everything you need.
WHAT WE LIKE ABOUT THE HOTEL
- The sea turtles. Velaa’s first guests, these beautiful creatures have inhabited the island for generations and they have subtle influences throughout the resort. Look closely and you’ll see the colours and pattern of a turtle shell in its design.
- Destination dining. This is fine-dining your way. You select the venue, whether that’s a private strip of beach in the lagoon or a jungle clearing on the island, then the hotel provides the chef and entertainment. A celebration to remember is assured.
- The Spa. The Velaa raises relaxation to an art form. Sha, a Viennese artist, has developed a holistic treatment, Wolke 7 Cloud 9, that guards against daily strains and stresses. Why not put it through its paces then opt for some rejuvenating shivering in the snow room? And if that doesn’t appeal, try a Clarins treatment made nowhere else on earth
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
ROOMS & SUITES
Total number of villas: 43
Total number of residences: 4
All the island’s 43 villas and houses use local materials and the tropical setting shapes each of their interiors. Terraces and gazebos have been placed with great care to ensure the accent is on calming breezes, spectacular views and absolute privacy. Seclusion is a constant focus here, whether in one of Velaa’s 18 private villas or its beachside residences. But privacy reaches its highest pitch in the Romantic Pool Residence. A delightful one-bedroom villa, it is suspended above the lagoon and only accessible by water, making it the perfect retreat for newly married and celebrating couples. Rarely for the Maldives, Velaa can accommodate larger parties, with its 4-bedroomed houses able to sleep up to 10. But it is their service not their size that really defines Velaa’s villas, as their 24-hour butler service is unfailingly responsive and polite.
GENERAL MANAGER
Igor Dolezel
SUMMARY OF AVAILABLE SERVICES AND AMENITIES
- Free wifi is available in all areas.
- 24-hour front desk
- Express and private check-in/check-out
- Concierge service
- Business centre
- VIP room facilities
- Bridal suite
- Babysitting/child services
- Laundry and dry cleaning
- Allergy-free room
- Safety deposit box
- Newspapers
- Non-smoking throughout and designated smoking area
- Meeting/banquet facilities
- Barber/beauty shop
- Gift shop with designer fashion and jewellery
- Airport shuttle (surcharge)
- Full Spa and Fitness centre
- Outdoor pool (all year)
- Private beach area
- Tennis court and Golf course (within 3 km)
- Activities such as: windsurfing, fishing, canoeing, cycling, diving, squash, snorkelling
- Games room and Children's playground
- BBQ facilities
- Library
- Three Restaurants varying from fine dining to casual
- Breakfast in the room
- Room service
- Special diet menus (on request)