Note: this property was rebranded to The Halcyon Maldives in 2025

Set on a pristine location in the remote Gaafu Alifu Atoll, the exclusive Raffles Maldives offers guests an intimate island escape in The Maldives. The highly luxurious 5 star resort boasts only 38 exquisitely appointed, huge villas and residences divided over two small islands. They seamlessly marry contemporary elegance with the warm charm of the Maldives. With personalized touches – from the signature Raffles butler service to unique experiences – the resort invites discerning travellers to immerse themselves in a world of refined luxury and natural beauty.

Location & Resort

Nestled on the southern edge of the Maldives archipelago, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is cradled by turquoise lagoons, powder‐white sands, and vibrant coral reefs. Guests begin their journey at Malé International Airport, followed by a swift domestic flight – typically to Kaadedhdhoo Domestic Airport lasting about an hour – and a scenic 15- to 20-minute speedboat transfer. This blend of air and sea travel not only emphasizes the resort’s remote setting but also sets the tone for an exclusive escape where tranquillity and natural splendour prevail.

The resort is a picturesque sanctuary that balances natural beauty with refined design. Whether you’re wandering along pristine beaches, exploring intimate pathways shaded by lush tropical foliage, or unwinding in an overwater villa with the gentle rhythm of the ocean at your doorstep, you’re immersed in an environment that celebrates both the rich heritage of the Maldives and a commitment to sustainable luxury.

Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is divided between two enchanting small islands. The main island is blanketed in lush greenery, yet its compact nature means you can easily explore it on foot in just ten minutes. It is home to 21 huge beach villas, each featuring a private pool and direct access to the beach, as well as two restaurants, the main bar, the spa, a shop and the activities centres. A short two-minute boat ride takes you to Ocean Pearl, the second island, where 16 palatial water villas and a dedicated restaurant offer true overwater elegance.

The resort’s architecture is a harmonious fusion of modern design and traditional influences. Crisp lines, navy accents, and airy, light‑filled spaces blend seamlessly with local materials and artful details to create interiors that are as visually striking as they are comfortable. This mindful integration with the natural surroundings enhances every outdoor experience – from invigorating sunrise yoga sessions on the infinity deck, where the sky bursts into brilliant hues, to refreshing swims in a crystalline lagoon that sparkles under the Maldivian sun. Every detail is crafted to celebrate the unique interplay between contemporary elegance and the timeless charm of the Maldives.

Villas

At Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, accommodation is reimagined as a personal sanctuary. Across two small islands, the resort presents 38 magnificent beachfront and overwater villas and residences that offer an abundance of space, privacy, and bespoke luxury. These accommodations are exceptionally large compared to other Maldivian properties, starting at an astonishing 220m2.

Interiors are adorned with natural materials, soothing colour palettes of light blue, white, beige, and brown, and bespoke furnishings, while abundant wood and natural elements seamlessly blend with the stunning environment. They are timeless and elegant, combining the history of the Raffles brand with contemporary luxury.

Prices of the villas start at € 2.000 per night and the following villa types are available:

Overwater villa’s & residences

• Overwater Villa with Pool (230 sqm): A true Maldivian overwater retreat offering expansive views of the lagoon in a spacious setting perfect for a quiet escape.
• Sunset Overwater Villa with Pool (230 sqm): Similar in size to the standard overwater villa, this option features unobstructed west‑facing views for memorable sunsets.

• Overwater Residence with Pool (300 sqm): A generously sized accommodation with two separate bedrooms, a living area, and a private pool designed for ultimate privacy and relaxation.
• Sunset Overwater Residence with Pool (300 sqm): Combines luxurious social spaces with private quarters, offering breath-taking west‑facing views and ample space for leisure.

Beach villa’s & residences

• Beach Villa with Pool (220 sqm): A marine-inspired villa which features a harmonious blend of indoor comfort and direct access to a stretch of pristine beach.

• Beach Residence with Pool (260 sqm): Divided over two separate buildings with a private garden and pool, ideal for families seeking both space and a seamless connection to the beach.
• Sunset Beach Residence (260 sqm): Boasts two separate bedrooms and a plunge pool, offering an elevated experience with captivating sunset views right from your room.
• Raffles Royal Residence (1250 sqm): An ultra‑spacious, palatial home for up to six guests, featuring floor‑to‑ceiling windows, a private infinity pool, a huge rooftop terrace, and direct access to the lagoon for the ultimate in refined luxury.

We stayed in both a Beach Villa with Pool and an Overwater Villa with Pool (see pictures above & below) and can recommend both depending on your preferences:

• In the Overwater villa, we were truly impressed by the villa’s size, the generous outdoor terrace with several lounge areas, and the enormous shower (more like a shower room) with ocean views.

The beds in the Overwater Villas are among the biggest you’ll ever see (4 meters wide!), and each villa features expansive living spaces that invite you to relax while enjoying sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.

• The Beach Villas have more warm character because of their design and layout, surrounded by tropical greenery. The direct access to your own private beach is a big plus and enjoying your morning coffee with your feet in the sand is an amazing feeling. The oversized bathtub (more like a plunge pool size) and both indoor and outdoor showers are extra assets here.
  

  

  

  Signature touches – such as a personal butler service that caters to every detail, from customized pillow menus to tailored in‑villa dining – ensure that every stay is uniquely personalized. The service is Singapore‑inspired, exemplified by one of the loveliest turn‑downs ever, complete with soft lighting and spa‑style music.

Gastronomy

Dining at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is a culinary journey that reflects the diversity of global influences while celebrating the freshest flavours of the Indian Ocean.

The food and beverage quality is great, especially given the island’s size and remote location. The resort is home to several distinctive venues:

• Thari: An all-day dining destination offering a menu that spans Southeast Asian, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines. Guests can enjoy an à la carte breakfast, a leisurely lunch, and themed dinner nights – all served in a beachside atmosphere with your feet in the sand.

• The Firepit: Set against a backdrop of flickering tiki torches, The Firepit specializes in expertly smoked delicacies and grilled dishes that highlight locally sourced seafood and meats. It is open twice week.

• Yuzu: This overwater restaurant, located on Pearl island, offers an innovative fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. With a focus on fresh, line caught fish, Yuzu offers dishes ranging from ceviche to sushi, capturing the essence of Nikkei culinary art.

• Yapa Sunset Bar: Just next to Yuzu, Yapa Sunset Bar pairs authentic Japanese saké and exotic cocktails with an array of delicate small tapas plates, perfect for a sunset toast.

• Long Bar: A modern tribute to the classic Raffles Long in Singapore , this venue offers a refined selection of champagnes, cocktails, and snacks in an outdoor, seaside ambience that recalls the storied history of Raffles hospitality. Don’t miss the local take on the famous Singapore Sling.

• Bespoke Dining: For those seeking a more intimate experience, bespoke dining allows guests to enjoy a tailor made menu in a location of their choosing – whether on the beach under the stars or on a secluded deck overlooking the lagoon. Don’t miss the “Cinefushi” as well: a private beach cinema with snacks and drinks.

Resort Assets

Beyond its exceptional accommodations and dining options, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo features some curated experiences designed for both relaxation and adventure:

• Sports, Water Sports & Marine Encounters: The vibrant house reef at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is like a living aquarium and one of the best in The Maldives. The reef offers guests the opportunity to snorkel or dive among a rich array of marine life, including sea turtles, reef sharks, and occasionally, majestic whale sharks. Resident marine biologists lead guided excursions like house reef snorkelling and sea fishing, providing valuable insights into the delicate ecosystem that surrounds the island. A standout experience is the opportunity to interact with the more than 25 resident sea turtles or swim with the magnificent whale sharks in the stunning waters of Gaafu Alifu Atoll. There’s a tennis and padel court as well, and a small and cosy kids club.

• Raffles Spa: A sanctuary for health and wellbeing, the spa features overwater couples treatment rooms, a VIP suite with spa tub, and an overwater fitness centre. Personalized treatments, often incorporating local Ayurvedic techniques and sustainably sourced luxury products, promise to rejuvenate both body and mind. Treatments are also possible in your villa.

• Experiential Activities: Whether it’s a private cooking class, cocktail making sessions that demystify the art of mixology, or cultural boat trips to nearby local islands, every experience at Raffles is designed to immerse you in the natural beauty and rich traditions of the Maldives.
• Butler Service & Personal Touches: True to the Raffles legacy, every guest is greeted by a dedicated butler whose intuitive service ensures that every whim is catered to – from arranging private dining on a secluded sandbank to facilitating last minute spa treatments. This personal touch transforms a luxurious stay into a wonderful, bespoke experience.

Why Go?

Raffles Maldives Meradhoo seamlessly blends the art of island living with refined luxury. The resort’s expansive villas, designed for ultimate privacy and comfort, are complemented by personalized service. With great dining experiences and a setting that highlights the Maldives’ natural beauty, this resort offers an idyllic escape for couples, honeymooners, or discerning travellers seeking peace and indulgence.