Viceroy Maldives Resort to debut end 2011
Viceroy Hotels and Resorts is proud to announce its first arrival outside of the Americas with the opening of Viceroy Maldives at the end of 2011 following the recent successful launches of Viceroy Miami, Viceroy Snowmass in Colorado and Viceroy Anguilla in the Caribbean.
Viceroy Maldives is located on the pristine, crescent-shaped island of Vagaru in the Shaviyani Atoll, just one hour north of the capital Male. The intimate 61-villa island resort will boast spacious interiors by world renowned design firm Yabu Pushelberg, an over-water spa, a complete range of watersport activities and five distinctive dining and lounge venues. Unparalleled sunsets, endless coral reefs and unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean are just a sampling of what awaits visitors of the resort.
“Extending the Viceroy brand across the world to the Maldives is a very exciting development for us,” says Brad Korzen, Founder and CEO of Viceroy Hotel Group. “It will be unlike any property we have seen in this market, with unparalleled design, style and service that will deliver a remarkable experience for our guests. We look forward to welcoming our clientele.”
A tranquil haven for those seeking ultimate seclusion, each of the resort’s luxury beachfront or water villas is nestled on the white sand beachfront or poised directly over the turquoise sea. Private plunge pools, en-suite bathrooms and generous outdoor areas allow for optimal privacy and superior comfort in an awe-inspiring setting. With the smallest villa measuring over 1,300 square feet and the largest measuring over 3,000 square feet, Viceroy Maldives will feature some of the most spacious accommodations in the Maldives.
The resort’s five dining options will offer everything from casual beachside cuisine to high-end steak and seafood fare, all using the finest and freshest ingredients available. Restaurant concepts will incorporate Asian and European influences, and private venues including an underground wine cellar will also be available for celebratory events and chef’s table dinners.
Those looking to relax and rejuvenate can enjoy indulgent spa treatments at the resort’s over-water spa bungalows, which will include seven treatment rooms for both individuals and couples alike. Natural elements such as the sun, sea and local Maldivian culture will be infused into holistic treatments, allowing guests to achieve an ultimate sense of well-being and healing. Healthy cooking demonstrations, Ayurvedic treatments and yoga classes will all be offered as part of the programming at The Spa at Viceroy Maldives.
One of the resort’s unique highlights is the “Treehouse” beachside lounge, where guests can enjoy breathtaking sunsets or spend evenings stargazing in the trees in a whimsical, Moroccan-inspired setting. An expansive watersports centre will allow Viceroy guests to indulge in world-class diving, fishing and snorkelling, all available in the resort’s house reef and beyond.
Yabu Pushelberg created the interiors of Viceroy Maldives by drawing inspiration from the islands’ natural beauty and culture, using only essential elements to avoid competition with the unsurpassed location. Throughout the property, subtle nautical references including rope, raw wood, leather and canvas are used as unexpected detailing in furniture pieces, sculptural divisions of space and textural wall coverings. Naturally rustic materials and patterns are used in a modern way to allow the resort to exude sophistication without feeling ostentatious.
From the moment guests arrive at the resort they will feel an ultimate sense of calm. Whether lounging in an oversized daybed overlooking the lagoon, socialising beachside at the resort’s signature restaurant or relaxing with their children in the playful kid’s zone, Viceroy Maldives will exceed the expectations of even the most discerning guest.
Taking the helm at Viceroy Maldives is Uday Rao, who will serve as General Manager, overseeing all of the resort’s operations. Having most recently held the title of Hotel Manager at the Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, Uday brings with him 19 years of managerial experience in the hospitality industry. He has held positions at various Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts around the world, including properties in Singapore, Maldives and Japan.
“We are very excited to welcome Uday to the Viceroy family,” says Nicholas Clayton, President of Viceroy Hotel Group. “His leadership and expertise in the international luxury market makes him the ideal person to lead Viceroy Maldives. We are looking forward to seeing his continued success as we open one of the world’s most anticipated new properties and take steps towards an increasingly global focus.”
Viceroy Maldives is being developed by Maldives-based luxury hotel developer, EoN Resorts, in partnership with Mubadala Development Company. Mubadala is a 50% shareholder in Viceroy Hotel Group, and is actively driving the expansion of the luxury Viceroy Hotels and Resorts brand into key gateway cities and destinations across the globe.
For more information, visit: viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/maldives