Beach House is definitely out of this world
And that is no understatement. For the Robinson Crusoe for a day, the Beach House in Manafaru, whichis far removed from any traces of civilization, offers the very special feature of being located on the last Haa Alafu atoll to the north of the archipelago of Maldives. In a nutshell, all good things take a good dose of perseverance. Don’t expect to reach Malé (the smallest capital in the world) and think that you will just be able to set your suitcases down. No, the Beach House is a privilege you will have to earn. You need a great deal of patience to fly over the 1,900 dotted islands and 19 atolls, to navigate on this infinite aqua stretch to at last have the divine pleasure of setting foot on the white, phosphorescent sand and to let your soul sway in the mild refreshing atmosphere, surrounded by an indescribable blue camaieu.
Manafaru, sold by drawing lots
First shock, from below the plane, you can see hundreds of light-coloured rings and flat fluorescent dots spread out over an endless ocean. A real potpourri of colours, similar to those on an artist’s palette. It is here in this indescribable blue camaieu that the word « paradise » takes on the full meaning of the expression.
Welcome to Beach House on Manufaru which means the « forbidden island ». An island procured by its 39-year old owner, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed by drawing lots.
The Beach House, a lakeside village on stilts
Opened after 14 months of refurbishing, to the tune of some 60 million dollars, the Beach House has been transformed into a small luxurious, 5-star paradise.
68 villas on stilts and beach villas share this small garden of paradise of 14 hectares, laid out like a strip of silver on this empyrean bathed in serenity.
A Garden of Paradise where the temperate jungle is full of coconut trees, banana trees, papaya trees and frangipani trees gently scattered here and there.
Sandy paths have been traced all along white stones, reinforcing the impression of being at the other end of the world and we delight in getting lost in this paradise. But for the lazier ones among you, the buggy is at your service.
The water bungalow, the moorings in mid-ocean
The ultimate aim of the journey is of course to reach your water bungalow to enjoy your private terrace and its pontoon like a floating raft in mid-ocean. And if for some reason, the blue camaieu is not enough for your happiness, the small swimming pool, an extension of the terrace will enable you to float weightless out of the reach of napoleons, corsair butterflies, or tamarinds with a yellow tail.
As for the bathroom, and the bathtub in particular, which look out over a huge picture window, they become a privileged observatory, with a view plunging over the ocean.
The outdoor shower and WC, protected from onlookers by a teak-wood fence was a great idea.
The Shui Spa, a temple of tranquillity
This is not only the ideal get-away, but also the epitome of beauty, thriving on silence that is only troubled at times by the chirping of birds. Stone footbridges, surrounded by water stretch along the trees and lead you to the spa and villa. Ten altogether.
Here the marine air lingers over everything and the caressing of the air is so very refreshing.
Spa manager, Françoise, tirelessly caters to the wellness of guests. The difficulty lies in making the choice between a Balinese treatment, a Thai and yoga message or a marma massage (a real Ayurvedic treatment).
4 restaurants for a gourmet craving
Do you want to get back to civilization? Three restaurants and a bar match all different kinds of tastes. The Cellar, located well under sea level, this restaurant offers you an extensive collection of fine vintages from boutique wineries around the world.
The 30 Degrees, set over turquoise water, the restaurant takes guest on a gastronomic journey of discovery through an array of exquisite sampler dishes, paired with a unique wine chosen beforehand by the sommelier. . The Medium Rare, which is made up of three pavilions, is only open evenings for grilled fish or meat. And the Saffron, where the chef, who has a real flair for Asian savours, creates a symphony out of food coming from all around the world. A real escapade !
4 restaurants.
- The Cellar: Located well under sea level, this restaurant offers you an extensive collection of fine vintages from boutique wineries around the world.
