The Ritz-Carlton Maldives: A Masterpiece of Modern Luxury
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, a resort that redefines contemporary luxury in the Maldives. While I’ve been fortunate enough to visit some of the world’s most prestigious island retreats, this one felt different—sleek, modern, yet deeply rooted in the tranquil beauty of its surroundings. Have I found a new Maldivian favourite? Quite possibly! And trust me, I’ve been searching for years.
The Ritz-Carlton Maldives stands as one of the most architecturally striking private island resorts in the world, a vision brought to life by the late Kerry Hill, whose legacy includes some of the most breathtaking resorts ever designed. Set in the Fari Islands, an innovative, man-made archipelago in North Malé Atoll, the resort blends seamlessly with its environment, offering a sanctuary of refined elegance.
Location
Conveniently located just 45 minutes by luxury speedboat from Malé International Airport, it’s ideal for those who want to skip the seaplane journey but still experience complete seclusion. The approach itself is spectacular—gliding across the crystal-clear waters before arriving at an island where every single detail has been meticulously curated.
The name “Ritz-Carlton” evokes timeless sophistication, and from the moment I stepped off the boat, it was clear this was no ordinary Maldivian escape.
Accommodation
The 100 villas at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives are a departure from traditional Maldivian design—gone are the thatched roofs and rustic aesthetics. Instead, the resort embraces sleek, circular overwater and beachfront villas, mirroring the flow of the ocean.
I stayed in a One-Bedroom Beach Pool Villa, an expansive sanctuary where floor-to-ceiling windows disappeared into the walls, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor living. The design is minimalist yet warm, with natural woods, travertine stone, and elegant furnishings that exude effortless luxury.
Every villa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives features a private infinity pool offering uninterrupted views of the ocean or beach, sunlit outdoor terraces equipped with luxurious loungers and daybeds, a signature soaking tub designed to capture sweeping sea vistas, indoor and outdoor rain showers for the ultimate tropical experience, and a dedicated Aris Meeha (personal butler) attending to every need. Indulge in the epitome of luxury as you unwind in your villa, where each detail is meticulously curated to enhance your tropical getaway, ensuring that every moment is steeped in relaxation and opulence.
Families will love the sprawling two- and three-bedroom estates, while honeymooners will revel in the romance of the One-Bedroom Overwater Villas, designed for complete privacy over the turquoise lagoon.
It’s rare to find a resort where every single villa category feels like a masterpiece, but at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, each one is a sanctuary of serenity and indulgence
Dining
The seven restaurants and bars at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives celebrate global flavours, each offering something distinct yet impeccably curated.
La Locanda
The heart of the resort’s dining scene, La Locanda serves authentic Southern Italian cuisine. By day, it’s a sunlit paradise for lavish breakfasts with artisanal pastries and fresh juices. By night, it transforms into an elegant trattoria, where handmade pasta and fresh seafood steal the show.
Summer Pavilion
Inspired by its Michelin-starred namesake in Singapore, Summer Pavilion offers a sophisticated take on Cantonese fine dining. Signature dishes include steamed lobster dumplings, wok-fried black pepper Wagyu, and delicate dim sum—all prepared with incredible precision.
Iwau
This open-air teppanyaki experience was a personal favourite. Sitting under the Maldivian night sky while the chef expertly grilled Wagyu beef, scallops, and lobster felt almost surreal. If you love Japanese cuisine, this is a must-visit.
Arabesque
Located at Fari Marina Village, this Middle Eastern and North Indian concept is an intimate escape into vibrant spices and bold flavours. Think freshly baked breads, tender grilled meats, and rich, fragrant curries, all served in a setting inspired by Bedouin tents.
Beach Shack
Casual, chic, and right on the sand, Beach Shack is the perfect spot for long, lazy lunches. Expect Mediterranean-style sharing plates, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh seafood, all enjoyed with your toes in the sand. It’s also one of the best sunset spots on the island!
Fine wines and signature cocktails are a major focus here too. Eau Bar serves creative whiskey-based cocktails, while the curated wine selection across all venues rivals some of the best cellars in the Maldives.
The Spa
The Ritz-Carlton Spa is nothing short of a design masterpiece. Shaped like a floating ring over the lagoon, it is a space dedicated to deep relaxation and holistic well-being.
There are nine luxurious treatment rooms, where expert therapists use Bamford’s organic and sustainably sourced products. I indulged in a signature Maldivian massage, incorporating locally inspired techniques to restore balance—absolute bliss.
While the spa itself is flawless, note that there’s no communal sauna or Jacuzzi, which some guests may expect at this level. However, the fitness centre and movement pavilion do feature yoga, Pilates, and meditation classes, all set against breathtaking ocean views.
Staying
Watersports & Excursions
Guests can enjoy a range of water sports, including private yacht charters to secluded sandbanks and sunset dolphin cruises.
Ritz Kids: A Playground for Young Explorers
The Ritz Kids Club is one of the most impressive in the Maldives, offering interactive marine biology sessions, scavenger hunts, and art workshops. The futuristic design of the kids’ club, shaped like a mini space station, adds to the excitement.
Fari Marina Village: A Rare Maldives Offering
Guests at The Ritz-Carlton have exclusive access to Fari Marina Village, a hub of boutique shopping, additional dining, and contemporary art installations, including a mesmerising James Turrell light installation.
Unlike most Maldivian resorts, which can feel isolated, this unique concept allows guests to venture beyond their island while still staying within the Ritz-Carlton experience.
Snorkelling
While the resort’s house reef is still developing, guided excursions take you to some of the best dive and snorkel spots in the North Malé Atoll, teeming with manta rays, turtles, and reef sharks.
Final Word - The Ritz-Carlton Maldives
"The Ritz-Carlton Maldives is more than just a resort—it’s a vision of modern luxury, where architecture, service, and nature converge seamlessly. Every moment here feels curated, every experience designed to leave an impression. With its breathtaking villas, diverse dining, and exceptional service, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives offers a luxury escape unlike any other."
If you feel inspired to visit or have more questions about picking the perfect resort, contact me and I'll help curate your ideal trip. Book with me
Jane
PS - I can't wait to return, I might just see you there, if so, say hi!