Time for a time-out? Then it should be absolutely special – with experiences and gourmet delights, far from the well-trodden paths. Our proposal: combine a dream island feeling with pioneering spirit. The Fari Islands are four new – and we really mean new in the sense of 'not there previously' – islands in the North Malé atoll of the Maldives. Creativity, aspiration and mindfulness characterise the artificially created new land which rests on the subterranean coral reef and now rises over the Indian Ocean, constructed with sand from the depths of the sea and sumptuously planted. As well as inspiring hospitality, an important contribution to sustainable land acquisition has been achieved.
Maldives
Republic of the Maldives
1,190 islands, 30 % inhabited
Population
540,000, 1/3 of them on Malé
Total surface area
approx. 90,000 km2, 99 % water
approx. 644 km
coastline in total
on average 2 m above sea level
lowest lying country in the world
4 international airports
13 domestic airports
> 2,000 species of fish
including shark, skate, butterfly fish
Turquoise-coloured sea, white sand, green palm trees and spectacular diving grounds: The paradise islands of the Maldives have been one of the most coveted tourist destinations for decades. Over a distance of 870 km from north to south and 125 km from west to east, almost 1,200 coral islands string together like pearls, forming the 26 atolls of the Indian Ocean. The land area is only 0.33 percent of the island state. And of this, only 30 percent is inhabited. The island of Malé is the capital and also the economic centre. Urbanity and colourful vitality rule here – with commercial and residential quarters, high-rise buildings, hospitals, container ports and marinas. Around 40 percent of the inhabited islands are completely dedicated to tourism. Wonderful accommodation from casual to luxurious creates the perfect holiday flair in the centre of this unique nature idyll with coral reefs abundant in fish. To meet the growing numbers of guests and, at the same time, retain the habitat of the locals, it was decided to acquire the new land of the Fari Islands – an innovative and sustainable decision which created new space for resorts that redefine luxury and comfort.
Fari Islands
SUSTAINABLY BUILT ON SAND
Four islands, three luxury resorts, a lively centre with boutiques, gastronomic variety and marina as well as a high-quality campus for the employees: that’s the concept of the Fari Islands. The boat transfer from Malé to this picturesque new island landscape takes only 45 minutes; only the slightly more coarsely-grained sand bears witness to its artificial origins. Two of the exclusive 5-star resorts have already been opened; the third one, from the brand Capella, will probably be opening in 2025. The luxury hotels that are open already are owned by the brands Patina and The Ritz-Carlton. Both have an impressive holistic concept and the highest level of exclusivity, but their own distinct style, dimensions and design. Both are well worth seeing and getting to know.
Patina Maldives
Freedom – this aspiration takes on a new dimension in the 5 star luxury resort Patina and is experienced in all its facets: in the deep tranquillity that emanates from the magic luminescence of the sea and the wonderfully designed nature landscape. In the island’s many bays and promontories, which reveal continually new perspectives and beauties. In buildings and spaces that unite playful state-of-the-art design and natural materials to create an inviting cosiness. And in the multiplicity of opportunities to explore, discover and enjoy. It is an incomparable place of retreat which the Brazilian 'starchitect' Marcio Kogan has created here. A total of 90 design villas of different sizes await you, some of which sit enthroned above the crystal-clear water while others lie directly on the white palm-lined beach. There are also 20 studios. Over curved footbridges and sandy paths, past sculptural art by James Turrell, Hongjie Yang or Jose Dávila, you find your way to the Beach Club. Completely according to the motto 'can do everything, don’t need to do anything', you can relax here with a cocktail on the comfortable lounge sofas, enjoy freshly prepared delicacies with family or friends or swim your laps in the large pool. Then you saunter further along to the marina, carrying a fruity-fresh ice-cream from the food truck and stroll past boutiques, bars and restaurants. Not only the cuisine promises great variety – the water sports centre offers all kinds of activities – from snorkelling or stand-up paddling to cruising: the iconic mega yacht Adastra is a statement of futuristic design and a guarantee of adventure and extravagant lifestyle. And by the way: the next generation is perfectly looked-after in the Patina: While the parents visit the spa or the gym, the kids learn how to print sweets in a 3D printer or create a racing car with innovative laser-cut technology – something to fascinate even cool teens.
Art and sustainability are the overarching elements of Patina Maldives – and also define the interior design. The interiors of the Patina beach and water villas have a natural lightness and stylish coolness. Light-coloured timber creates the framework for the modern design interior. Art decorates the walls – or the walls themselves become a striking artistic creation made from natural timber logs. Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors offer a breath-taking panoramic view; when fully open they create a flowing passage from the inside to the outside. From the spacious sun terrace at the front you can refresh yourself in the private pool or relax in the hammock that rocks gently from side to side in the summery breeze. It couldn’t possibly be more relaxing.
