Le Meridien is set to make its debut in the Maldives this August with a 154-villa resort on the island of Thilamaafushi in the Lhaviyani Atoll. 

Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa is situated a 35-minute seaplane journey away from Velana International Airport, Male. 

The nine-hectare island features six restaurants and bars, an Explore Spa by Le Meridien, an ocean-facing fitness studio and yoga pavilion, and an interactive creative arts studio.

The resort will also offer a Le Meridien Family and Kids’ Hub, where programmes include nature trails, a mini marine conservation programme and micro-green planting in The Greenhouse.

A selection of one or two-bedroom villas are located along the beach or over the water. Guests can also book the three-bedroom Thilamaafushi Villa, which is set in its own alcove on the beach. 

Activities at the hotel include nature safaris, marine talks, family foraging, cooking classes and visits to the resort’s private island, Bodu Finolhu.

A statement from the Marriott-owned brand said the resort had been designed to “celebrate the Maldives’ distinct life, culture and vibrant landscape” featuring clean lines, a muted colour palette and renewable materials. 

Rates start from $600 per night in a Sunrise Overwater Villa inclusive of breakfast and dinner.