Maldives resort provides formula for a perfect family holiday

Whilst the Maldives is well known as a firm favourite for the honeymoon crowd, its appeal and practicality as a family holiday destination is less explored.

The newly launched Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa aims to ensure that both children and parents alike experience their very own version of paradise with tailor-made activities and facilities to suit all ages.

Kids love to splash and play, something which couples in the throes of romance will not appreciate. No such problem at the Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa where the adults-only pool is as far from the dedicated family pool as possible on the 52 acre tropical island. The neighbouring Kids Paradise is one of the main features of the resort; open daily from 9am to 6pm, it is home to playgrounds, games, toys and a full activity calendar tailored to kids aged from 3 to 12. After hours, and for toddlers, a baby-sitting service is also available.

Children’s ‘gourmet’ needs are also not forgotten with children under two enjoying complementary food and drinks and a special kid’s menu available at a 50% discount across all restaurants, with a particularly wide choice at Iru, the main buffet style dining area.

For those looking for some much-needed family time, the resort has a wealth of excursions. The daily snorkeling and turtle safaris are ideal for older children giving them the chance to make their geography lessons a reality in the vibrant reefs of the Noonu Atoll. Children as young as eight can also try their hand at diving with a special ‘Bubblemaker’ experience and from the age of 10, kids can embark on their first Discovery Dive, progressing to a Junior Open Water Course with the resort’s PADI Dive Centre if they get the bug.

Active teens can try their hand at beach football, volleyball or even big game fishing, whilst those used to slumping in front of their computers will enjoy the Movie of the Day and selection of Children’s DVDs available to borrow. And for those families who like to engage in some healthy competition, the Golf Simulator, board games and Private Karaoke booth provide the perfect occasion.

High-tech accommodation featuring i-spa bathtubs (Jacuzzis with i-pod connections) will impress even today’s tech-savvie teens and the spacious inside-outside living give plenty of space for all the family.

For those worried about a long-haul flight, the Hilton Family Maldives dedicated lounge at Male International Airport provides guests with complementary shower facilities, refreshments and entertainment the minute they step off the plane to ensure every moment of the holiday is spent in complete relaxation.

Tropical Sky (tropicalsky.co.uk) is offering seven-nights at the Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa Hotel from £1,625 per person (based on a family of four sharing). Available for selected departures in September, the price includes flights from London Heathrow with Emirates, accommodation in two Jacuzzi beach villas on a half-board basis, transfers, taxes and surcharges.