Set amidst the crystal-clear waters of the South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru is a tropical haven that promises a quintessential Maldivian escape. Known as “Turtle Island” in the local Dhivehi language, this attractive resort offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, luxury, and vibrant experiences. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family looking for an adventure, or a solo traveller in need of relaxation, Angsana Velavaru provides an idyllic retreat to delight all. With its distinctive in-ocean villas, very good dining, and a range of activities both on land and in the water, this resort is a great example of barefoot luxury.
Your journey to Angsana Velavaru begins with a scenic 40-minute seaplane flight from Velana International Airport in Malé. As the seaplane glides over the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the coral-fringed atolls that make up the Maldives. Upon arrival, the warm and friendly staff of Angsana Velavaru greets you at the jetty, ensuring a smooth transition from the hustle and bustle of travel to the tranquillity of your villa.
Villas
Angsana Velavaru offers a diverse range of accommodation options, with 113 villas that cater to different tastes and preferences. Each villa is designed to provide a degree of privacy, comfort, and luxury, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Maldives.
The resort’s Beachfront Villas are ideal for those who love to be close to the sand and sea. Set just steps away from the beach, these villas feature private gardens, outdoor showers, and direct access to the pristine lagoon. The interiors are spacious and airy, with large windows that allow the natural light to flood in, creating a serene and calming atmosphere.
For an elevated experience, the InOcean Villas are a standout feature of Angsana Velavaru. These overwater villas are located a short boat ride away from the main island, offering fantastic views of the Indian Ocean. Each InOcean Villa comes with its own large infinity pool, a hammock suspended over the water, and direct access to the lagoon, making it the perfect choice for couples seeking romance or solo travellers looking for an unforgettable escape. These villas are different to pretty much all other Maldives resorts as they are out in the lagoon, rather than attached by a jetty as is much more typical. This gives more of a sense of being immersed in nature and the ocean.
Families and groups will find the Velavaru Villas particularly appealing. These spacious two-bedroom villas offer plenty of room for everyone, with separate living and dining areas, a private pool, and a large outdoor deck. The villa’s design combines modern amenities with traditional Maldivian touches, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable stay for all.
Solo travellers are also well-catered for at Angsana Velavaru, with the resort offering a range of activities and wellness options that allow you to unwind and rejuvenate in complete privacy. Whether you choose to relax in your villa, explore the vibrant marine life just steps from your door, or indulge in a spa treatment, Angsana Velavaru provides the perfect setting for a solo retreat.
Dining
Dining at Angsana Velavaru is a feast for the senses, with a variety of culinary experiences that showcase both local and international flavours. The resort’s restaurants are designed to offer something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal on the beach or a fine dining experience under the stars.
Azzurro, the resort’s signature Italian restaurant, is set on stilts above the water, offering stunning views of the ocean as you dine. The menu features a selection of authentic Italian dishes, including freshly made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and seafood specialities, all prepared using the finest ingredients. Azzurro’s relaxed ambiance, combined with its exquisite cuisine, makes it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch.
Kaani offers all-day dining with a focus on international cuisine. The restaurant’s open-air setting, with views of the beach and lagoon, creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast, an à la carte lunch, or a themed dinner buffet, with dishes ranging from Asian specialities to Mediterranean favourites.
Funa, the resort’s seafood restaurant, is a must-visit for lovers of fresh, locally sourced seafood. The restaurant is perched on stilts above the lagoon, offering panoramic views of the ocean and the stunning Maldivian sunset. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including Maldivian favourites such as grilled reef fish and lobster, as well as international specialities.
For a truly unique dining experience, In-Villa Dining allows guests to enjoy a private meal in the comfort of their villa. Whether it’s a romantic candlelit dinner on your terrace or a family barbecue by the pool, the resort’s culinary team will create a personalised dining experience that caters to your every need.
Spa and Wellness
The Angsana Spa at Angsana Velavaru is a quaint sanctuary of peace and relaxation, offering a range of treatments that draw on traditional Asian healing techniques and modern wellness practices. The spa’s therapists are trained in the art of touch, using a combination of aromatherapy, massage, and holistic therapies to rejuvenate the body and mind.
The spa menu includes a variety of massages, facials, and body treatments, all designed to promote relaxation and well-being. Signature treatments, such as the Angsana Massage, use a blend of essential oils and rhythmic movements to relieve tension and restore balance. For those seeking a more indulgent experience, the Royal Velavaru treatment combines a full-body massage with a facial and foot treatment, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalised. We really enjoyed the fact our treatment area was outdoors so you could listen to the resorts many birds chattering and singing whilst being pampered head to toe.
In addition to its treatment rooms, the Angsana Spa also features a relaxation area, where guests can unwind before or after their treatment, and a yoga pavilion, offering daily yoga and meditation classes. The spa’s tranquil setting, surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the lagoon, provides the perfect environment for relaxation and healing.
Activities
Angsana Velavaru offers a wide range of activities, both on land and in the water, ensuring that guests of all ages can find something to enjoy. The resort’s water sports centre offers everything from snorkelling and scuba diving to windsurfing and wakeboarding, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life that surrounds the island.
For those who prefer to stay on land, the resort offers a variety of activities, including beach volleyball, tennis, and guided nature walks. The resort’s Ranger Programme is a popular choice for families, offering children the opportunity to learn about the local environment and wildlife through fun and educational activities.
The resort also offers a variety of excursions, including dolphin- watching cruises and sunset fishing trips. For a more relaxed experience, guests can enjoy a leisurely bicycle ride around the island, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
For solo travellers, Angsana Velavaru offers a range of wellness activities, including yoga and meditation classes, that allow you to unwind and reconnect with yourself. The resort’s tranquil setting, combined with its focus on wellness, makes it the perfect destination for those seeking solitude and personal growth.
Conservation
Angsana Velavaru is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation, ensuring that its operations have a minimal impact on the local ecosystem. The resort is involved in a variety of conservation initiatives, including coral planting, marine life monitoring, and beach clean-ups, all of which are designed to protect the natural beauty of the Maldives.
Website: https://www.angsana.com/maldives/velavaru
By Lisa Curtiss
