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    • Design

    The bluest blue — Embracing paradoxes and unveiling beauty with a sojourn to the Four Seasons Maldives’ islands of Kuda Huraa, Landaa Giraavaru and Voavah

    SEP 10, 2023 | By Shriti Das
    The Water Villa at Kuda Huraa unveils a seamless connection to the sea, accompanied by a private swimming pool; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives
    A sprawling bathroom on Voavah’s private island, inviting indulgence in endless moments of leisure; The Water Villa at Kuda Huraa unveils a seamless connection to the sea, accompanied by a private swimming pool; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives
    Translating to a farmer’s village, is Kuda Huraa, a charming Four Seasons resort that embodies opulence within a setting of exquisite intimacy; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives
    The Beach Villa at Landaa Giraavaru visually connects with the infinite seas as a lap pool draws the eye from the interiors onto the expansive ocean; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives

    Disconnecting from work or taking a long hiatus has often proved counterproductive for me. Because often, I require nothing more than a pen and paper to embark on fresh endeavours or seamlessly pick up where I last left off at my workstation. Consequently, the prospect of my journey to the paradisiacal Four Seasons’ islands in the Maldives appeared paradoxical at first glance — an apparent contradiction.

    Four Seasons Maldives
    he Beach Villa at Landaa Giraavaru visually connects with the infinite seas as a lap pool draws the eye from the interiors onto the expansive ocean; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives

    Despite its elemental simplicity, encompassing only the interplay of the sun, seas, skies and sand, the allure of this tropic remains undeniable. What transpired was a revelation beyond comprehension, as the mesmerising expanse of the Maldives’ crystalline sea unveiled an incomprehensible beauty that defied all expectations or cliches.

    Four Seasons Maldives
    The Beach Villa at Landaa Giraavaru is crafted to mirror shades of sand with a Scandinavian flair. It is oriented along the beach with a discreet pathway leading to the pristine waters; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives

     

    Four Seasons Maldives
    Nestled upon the azure expanse, Kuda Huraa boasts an intimate allure with Beach Villas located near the entrance and Water Villas located towards the farther end of the island; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives

     

    Four Seasons Maldives
    Landaa Giraavaru, located at the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, is a sprawling island with individual bungalows that are dotted on either side of a meandering road that winds through the heart of the lush property. Each bungalow, a secluded haven unto itself harmoniously blends nature and luxury as the structures peek through dense foliage. The landscape too, is a mix of native plant species that are imperative for the island’s ecosystem; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives

     

    Four Seasons Maldives
    The Water Villa at Kuda Huraa unveils a seamless connection to the sea, accompanied by a private swimming pool; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives

     

    Four Seasons Maldives
    A Beach Villa at Kuda Huraa, with steep sloping roofs and shades of earth, crafted to evoke warmth; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives

    Five days and three islands. Kuda Huraa, Landaa Giraavaru (located at the Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve) and Voavah (a private island) welcomed me with what the islanders call “challenging weather conditions,” which aren’t conducive for the seas to be at their bluest best. Yet, it treated me to some of the most extraordinary vistas with just the right amount of drizzle and optimal sunshine all framed within architecture designed to precisely exalt such moments.

    A sprawling bathroom on Voavah’s private island, inviting indulgence in endless moments of leisure; Photography courtesy Four Seasons Maldives

    The design and experience is further underlined by their unwavering efforts to preserve the local flora and fauna through their Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) program which could keep someone like me occupied for hours on end. For those inclined towards a touch more dynamism, a plethora of invigorating physical pursuits await. For all others, the boundless sea and captivating architecture of Four Seasons Maldives stand ready to embrace one in timeless leisure.

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