Kothaifaru Maldives
Opened
2022
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Design Luxe ResortOutside the door
The house
HyattCanopy-screened island resort
Low-slung pavilions disappear beneath the canopy, trading typical Maldivian spectacle for quiet immersion in the forest and reef.
“Beachfront and overwater villas are scattered across the island, each with a private freshwater pool and minimalist interiors in natural tones.”
What it’s good at
Notable
Low-rise pavilions and green-roofed villas designed by Studiogoto blend into dense native jungle.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and The 50 Discovery.
Nature has deliberately been allowed to dominate throughout, with buildings slung close to the ground, and foliage planted on rooftops that tumbles down their walls.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
On a private coral island in Raa Atoll, reached by seaplane across open waters.
The rooms
All villas have private pools, whether tucked into jungle clearings with courtyard bathrooms or perched directly above the lagoon.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Loungers and cabanas edge the freshwater infinity pool, which looks straight out over the beach toward the lagoon.
The spa
Four double treatment suites sit high in the treetop canopy, using handmade cold-pressed plant and virgin coconut oils.
The gym
Floor-to-ceiling glass surrounds the Technogym fitness centre, looking straight out into the island's dense native foliage.
Restaurant
Seasalt
Local fishermen deliver their daily catch to the beachside tables, where whole reef fish is baked in sea salt.
At the table
Umami serves charcoal-grilled robata and sashimi over the water. At Mirus Bar, cocktails use herbs from the organic garden.
How it began
More than seventy percent of the uninhabited island's original forest was left untouched, keeping mature banyan and tamanu trees standing.
Good to know
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Alila Kothaifaru Maldives
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Maldives
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.