Although we’ve explored many of the Maldives’ beautiful islands, my husband Peter and I felt called back once again. This time, we decided to experience Mirihi Island Resort. The allure of its pristine beaches, luxuriously rustic accommodations and renowned coral reefs felt irresistible. Little did we know this trip would redefine our understanding of luxury and bring us closer to nature and each other.
A Desert Island of Personalized Luxury
Full of expectation and joy, we touchdown at Malé-Velana International Airport and are promptly picked up, checked-in and taken by a private luxury car to a strictly Mirihi Island Resort lounge at the seaplane terminal where we fill out a detailed questionnaire about ourselves. Once arriving at the resort, we’re greeted by name and given coconut water as we’re whisked through reception barefoot. Mirihi is a no-shoe island and all the main areas are covered in a fine coral sand that feels like heaven between our toes.
Mirihi is one of the smallest resorts in the Maldives. This tiny jewel, just 350 meters long and 50 meters wide, includes 6 beach villas and 30 water villas. As we’re guided to our water villa, we stop by the diving center and learn that the resort has access to one of the best reefs in the Maldives. Being a part of the South Ari Atoll protected area also makes it the best place to see whale sharks throughout the year. Steven, the head of the diving center, tells us about the endemic underwater structures, including Thilas, which are essentially submerged mountains.
Our names “Mima and Peter” are right on the doors of our villa, a lovely touch. Each villa has a Maldivian name, ours is Miyaru which means “shark” and above the bed is a painting of one chasing after the school of fish. The villa is nice and cozy, built out of wood and dressed in warm tones. It offers all the luxuries, with the exception of televisions, as guests are encouraged to go offline and find bliss in the surrounding nature.
Rustic Reconnection
There’s a Robinson Crusoe feeling here. The whole concept of Mirihi revolves around calming the mind and redefining luxury. Here, you’re meant to rediscover the rustic ways and reconnect with nature and self, all the while having a five-star experience. Instead of flashy infinity pools, there’s genuine natural beauty, experiences and wellness. Comprised of all wooden structures, the eco-friendly island is completely plastic-free, right down to the wooden toothbrush and toothpaste in a glass jar.
As day turns into night, we head to the à la carte restaurant and bar Muraka, or “coral” in Maldivian language, to enjoy a few signature cocktails developed by Julia Momosé, one of Chicago’s best bartenders, who brought 20 recipes here about a year ago as part of Mirihi Island Resorts’s 20th anniversary celebrations. The Blue Ocean and Chile Passion Fruit Daiquiri are must haves. The cocktails are followed by a personalised, three-course tasting menu prepared by Swiss executive chef Felix Bamert. Black risotto with tempeh and the truffle ravioli stood out as our favorites. The restaurant has a central opening where light is projected onto the ocean so one can observe all kinds of sea creatures and sharks while enjoying the food.
A Beach Bounty
Strong winds precluded us from going on the signature whale shark trip which resort is famous for, so we decide to enjoy a lazy day at the beach—sipping coconuts and reading. There’s a great library next to reception for those in need of a book. In the afternoon, the resort surprised us with private one-hour power yoga session with Danushka. As a yoga teacher myself, this was the best yoga session I’ve had out of the five I’ve experienced in the Maldives. As far as wellness goes, our class is only the tip of the iceberg—there is Ashtanga yoga, Jin yoga, aerial yoga, Pilates and healing meditation on the daily schedule. The resort also offers thematic health weeks where they invite Reiki and Qi gong masters to assist Danushka.
For this evening’s dinner, we enter a large rotunda for a ready buffet. At the grill station, you can choose from yellowfin tuna, tiger prawns, reef fish, ribs, steak, lamb or chicken. For desert, the mango crumble with roasted almond ice cream was a delight. After, the entertainment starts. In the Anba Bar, the resort offers an education night and a presentation about manta rays from the local marine biologist, Linn. The bar also boasts the largest selection of rums in the Maldives, including the resort’s signature rum, Muraka.
Coral Reefs and Coral-coloured Sunsets
The next sunny day, we stroll around the island and stop by a handwoven hammock and some sunbeds which make the perfect spot for relaxation. The day passes fast, as we enjoy the scenery, listen to the sound of the wind and rolling ocean tide. Later in the afternoon, we put on our snorkelling gear and discover the magic of the Maldives’ coral—it’s teeming with fish, sharks and all sorts of marine life.
As sunset approaches, we are greeted by staff who’ve organised a private sundowner at the beach. As we watch the sky change colors and the moon brightens, we think this must be heaven. The set-up is surrounded by lanterns and there’s a heart-shaped palm leaf at the back of the bed. After, we enter the Dhonveli Restaurant and are welcomed by Felix who has prepared some unforgettable cuisines, including red and green curries and some of the freshest sushi.
Mirihi Island Resort is a distinct kind of luxury. We felt relaxed and detoxified from our fast-paced lives back in Europe. This secluded sanctuary’s tagline “… as unique as you are” is right—Mirihi is truly one-of-a-kind.
About the authors: Miriama and Peter Matay of @auldsouls are European-based content creators specializing in luxury travel, fashion and lifestyle.
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