Officially opened its doors this month, So/ Maldives is a sartorially-rooted retreat set on a pristine private island and surrounded by the Emboodhoo Lagoon. Located a 15-minute speedboat ride from Malé’s Velana International Airport, the hotel boasts 80 individually designed villas, nestled directly on its own slice of white-sand beach or on stilts above the lagoon.
So/ Maldives is bold and structural in design, drawing inspiration from the craftsmanship and theatricality of contemporary couture. Thus, the "Castaway meets runway" tagline. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a spectacular, over-water pavilion, which sets the tone of the hotel with clean lines, cool neutrals, and natural wood, juxtaposed against vibrant accents and a sculptural, red-latticed central staircase. The hotel's distinctive walkways are framed by billowing fabrics or architectural timber canopies, making a striking counterpart to the island’s lush natural flora, and referencing the dramatic styling of high fashion presentations
Created in collaboration with leading artists and fashion designers, the 80 over-water and beachfront villas embody luxury, suiting everyone from young families and couples to groups of friends seeking sartorial experiences in this covetable pocket of seclusion.
Spread across eight categories, the accommodation ranges from the 120m² Lagoon Water Pool Villa Collection to the spectacular 330m² Three-Bedroom Ocean Water Pool Atelier, while the 238m² Family Beach Pool Villa with Capsule comes complete with fun adjoining sleep pods for young guests. Private pools come as a norm, as does a personalised concierge service, courtesy of the hotel’s guest experience hosts.
Staying away from the staid cliche of an all-day dining buffet, the hotel offers three distinct dining options. The Citronelle Club is inspired by the flavours of Asia, serving up spice-filled dishes family style, while the menu at destination restaurant Hadaba will feature slow-cooked dishes and smoked delicacies, using both local produce and the finest Levantine ingredients and spices. Guests looking for a more laid-back vibe can head to Lazuli. The beach bar/lounge hybrid oozes Côte d'Azur's (French Riveria) charm and elegance and will play host to DJs and live music programming.
Activity-wise, the cultural programming will bring together the best of music, fashion, design and art. Surrounded by lush greenery, the spa features specialist treatment rooms alongside a hammam (Turkish bath), steam rooms and a full-fitted gym, while those looking for a more organic workout can head to the watersports centre located on the beach. For families, The Nest Kids Club is fully equipped with toys, games and activities, while teens have their own dedicated space, The Zone, complete with a games room and outdoor deck.
The area is awash with natural splendour and teeming with exotic sea life making for exemplary diving and snorkelling. Set within the extraordinary multi-island destination of Crossroads Maldives, guests at So/ Maldives have plenty more to enjoy from retail therapy to excursions in addition to sugar-white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
If you would like to be among the early guests at So/ Maldives, consider booking "The Castaway EscapeBook", an opening offer for up to 35% off a seven-night stay with breakfast and speedboat transfer.
Email So.Maldives.Reservations@so-hotels.com or visit so-hotels.com/en/maldives.
