Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives opened July 26, 2009. It is the first international luxury resort on the southern-most tip of Addu Atoll.
The resort comprises 142 spacious stand-alone villas, from private ocean retreats to tropical luxury tree house villas perched three meters (9.8 feet) above the ground – a first in the Maldives. Each tree house villa features an elevated infinity pool from which to enjoy panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. In addition to long stretches of white, powdery sand, the three-kilometer-long (1.86-mile-long) island features 12 hectares of lush vegetation, 17,000 coconut trees, 45 species of plants and ancient banyan trees as well as nature trails for guests to discover the colorful wildlife.
CHI, The Spa – Shangri-La’s signature spa brand – is located in its own spa village at the resort’s highest geographical point, and offers a diverse range of treatments based on Chinese and Himalayan healing rituals. Exclusive to the spa on Villingili Island are Kandu Boli experiences, unique indigenous treatments inspired by tiger cowrie shell and other natural treasures found in the Maldives.
To discover the lifestyle and culture of Maldivian villages, guests can take a short boat ride to neighboring islands. Diving enthusiasts can explore the well known “British Loyalty” shipwreck or dive with giant manta rays with wingspans of more than four meters (13 feet) that live year-round in the area. Other recreational activities include an Eco Centre and a dive and water sports center offering surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling and a variety of non-motorized water activities. The resort’s health club features a well-equipped gym and two tennis courts. An entertainment center, four retail shops, an Adventure Zone area for children, and a medical center are also available at the resort.
Khazaanaage Restaurant, the resort’s flagship dining outlet, offers three living rooms serving three different regional cuisines from the Indian Ocean, South China Sea and Arabian Gulf.
“After months of preparation and tailored training in order to provide our guests with discreet, personalized and renowned Shangri-La hospitality, we are delighted to launch Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives,” said Jens Moesker, general manager, Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives. “In a unique location featuring luxury accommodation and offerings, we are confident that the newest property in our portfolio will be the top of mind destination when visitors think of the Maldives.”
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