Waldorf Astoria reveals fifth property in Asia
Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi in the heart of South Malé Atoll, marking its fifth property in Asia. Set to debut in July, the resort spans three private islands close to Malé International Airport and comprises a total of 122 villas. Equipped with a pool and views of the Indian Ocean, each reef, beach and overwater villa will open onto an indoor and outdoor deck with a swinging daybed, dining gazebo, infinity pool, in-water lounge and an outdoor shower.
“We are thrilled to bring this unforgettable property and best-in-class experience to the Maldives,” says Dino Michael, Global Head, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts. “The resort’s inspirational environment, refined culinary offerings, and thoughtfully designed family options, combined with the brand’s unparalleled commitment to personal service, will give every guest the freedom to create memories that last a lifetime.”
The resort also offers 11 dining venues, including treetop-dining concept Terra – a restaurant seemingly chiselled out of the face of a boulder at The Rock. Elsewhere, Yasmeen serves authentic Middle Eastern flatbreads and mezzes, as well as crispy Peking duck cooked in a wood-fired oven, while Glow embraces the notion of garden-to-table with holistic cuisine made from fresh ingredients harvested from the resort’s herb garden. The hotel will also be announcing a partnership with a celebrated chef and restaurant in the coming weeks.
Daniel Welk, Vice President, Luxury and Lifestyle Group, Asia Pacific, Hilton, adds: “As the fifth Waldorf Astoria to open in the region, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi represents a significant milestone in the brand’s continued growth in Asia Pacific following the successful opening of Waldorf Astoria Bangkok last year. We are extremely proud to bring the brand to a destination as synonymous with luxury as the Maldives, and we look forward to delivering unforgettable experiences that reflect Waldorf Astotia’s unique sense of place and iconic service standards.”
The Ithaafushi Private Island also features a two-bedroom overwater villa and three-bedroom beach villa. The 32,000ft² island sanctuary – accessible by yacht – comes with a dedicated chef and personal concierge team, as well as its own spa, gym, five swimming pools, entertainment centre and beaches. Meanwhile, two Stella Maris Ocean Villas – accessible only by boat – offer floor-to-ceiling windows, chef service, a jacuzzi and direct ocean access.
Completing the resort, the Waldorf Astoria Spa comprises ten overwater or garden treatment villas, each offering Asian-inspired therapies focusing on relaxation and rebalance. Other facilities include the beachfront, 40-metre Mirror Pool; the Ocean Pavilion, which will host a range of wellness activities; a fully equipped fitness area; and a combined water sport and PADI dive centre.
