Niyama Private Islands Maldives has announced an exciting programme for the upcoming festive season, inviting guests to let loose and indulge at the unique two-island resort.

During the season, guests at Niyama can enjoy a surreal Christmas of tropical cocktails and traditional carols, while celebrating with a Winter Wonderland feast, candles and mistletoe. In the days leading up to Christmas, a live coral Christmas tree will be unveiled at Subsix, the world’s first underwater playground and lounge. Positioned six metres below the waterline, the tree illuminates each night.

The New Year countdown promises to be the most exciting yet, with a special performance of Cats the Musical, a twilight feast overlooking the ocean, contemporary dance and opera performances, and a moonlit party on the beach to bring in 2018.

Activities for little VIPs and their families will be offered at the Explorers Kids’ Club throughout the holiday season. Catering for children from 12 months to 12 years of age, split into four age groups, little members can enjoy Christmas baking, ornament making, tree decorating and snowman building, as well as signature experiences of guided snorkelling expeditions, water fights and more.

Teens and adults are invited to join the Active programme, with island exploring, dolphin watching, a host of beach sports and authentic Maldivian cultural activities on offer, and a romantic movie night under the stars.

“A Winter Wonderland of snow-white sands melting into turquoise lagoon and never-ending Sapphire Ocean. Neon and fireworks lighting up the starry sky in a Countdown to the Surreal. Escape the mundane and live out the festive season with family, friends and lovers on the most exclusive of stages,” an announcement by the resort read.

“Christmas and New Year at Niyama Private Islands celebrates revelry for all ages. With twin islands to explore at Nature’s Playground, we invite you to let loose and indulge, dining in treetops, partying under the waves, seeking out romance or adrenaline-filled adventures, playing or chilling to each island’s unique rhythms.”

Niyama, a popular A-list hideaway nestled in the Dhaalu atoll, offers guests exclusive access to its twin islands – Chill and Play – conveniently connected via a picturesque bridge.

The family-friendly retreat, surrounded by picturesque shorelines and lush vegetation, has nine deluxe room categories ranging from spacious beachfront studios and one-bedroom water pavilions to three-bedroom family beach pavilions with two private pools, jacuzzi and a personal spa treatment room. With state-of-the-art amenities, in-room fridges filled with gourmet treats, a private butler plus the magic of the Maldivian island, this is the ultimate antidote to city life.

The jewel in the resort’s crown is the magnificent Crescent, a playground of five ultra-chic villas, all with private pools, for up to 14 adults and eight children. Boasting a private chef, two butlers, a housekeeper and a host of complimentary activities including a sunset dhoni cruise and movie under the stars, this over water sanctuary is the perfect paradise treat for extended families, honeymooners and discerning travellers.

With nine dining destinations, including tree house restaurant Nest and the world’s first underwater playground Subsix, guests can enhance their stay at Niyama with surreal gastronomic experiences.

Young VIPs will adore the Explorers Kids Club with its range of activities including nature expeditions around the tropical isles to MasterChef classes, while adventure-seeking teens and adults will be inspired by the resort’s excellent water sports offerings such as surfing, scuba diving and jet-skiing. Wellness devotees looking to indulge in a spot of indulgent pampering can retreat to the tranquil Drift by Niyama spa while enjoying the crystal-clear turquoise sea views from the six overwater treatment rooms.