Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort and Naladhu Private Island Maldives have joined forces to host the first Anantara Mini Triathlon, raising money for the Cancer Society of Maldives.

On October 29, 36 participants entered the competition, swimming, cycling and running in possibly the most stunning triathlon setting in the world. The competitors ran two laps around Veli and Naladhu, swam across the lagoon to Dhigu, then finished up with three laps cycling around the island.

The winner of the competition completed the course in just 24 minutes, a stunning achievement. Little kids also joined in on bicycles for a fun family day for all.

The event finished with a cocktail party and awards ceremony on the beach, with Chairperson of the Cancer Society of Maldives, Juwairiya Saeed, sharing a few heartfelt words: “I would like to thank the competitors, the resorts, and the 46 volunteers who dedicated their time and energy into making today a great success. Not only do such events highlight the unique beauty of our nation, but they also bring much needed awareness and funds to help those in need. Here’s to many more years of partnership.”

Situated on Dhigufinolhu Island in the South Male Atoll is Anantara Dhigu, where luxury meets simplicity. The resort comprises of the most spacious of luxury villas coupled with private plunge pools while just being a quick 35-minute speedboat ride away from the main Velana International Airport.

Anantara Dhigu provides a harmonious combination of both the romantic, adventure and family friendly. Upon arrival guests can peer into the crystal waters below the jetty at puffer fish, sting rays and baby reef sharks.

Choose between villas perfectly positioned to catch the sunrise or sunset, or those that have their own private plunge pool. Among Maldives luxury accommodation, Anantara Dhigu is outstanding with its choice of stylishly designed villas and suites. A number of these villas come with direct access to the powdery white beach and all only steps away from the tranquil lagoon.

Parents can relax while little ones are entertained for hours and spoilt for choice with Anantara’s kids club and numerous activities available. Thrill the family with adventures that include water bobbing, surfing and deep sea fishing. Families can even take a short pontoon ride to the island of Guli Fushi, picnic on the deserted beaches and experience some of the best snorkelling in the Maldives!

The cuisine at Anantara Dhigu is an inspiring Maldives restaurant gastronomic experience. Dining is relaxed and informal, with an array of seafood and meat grills, fine Italian cuisine and varying themed buffet dinners, to lighter meals poolside for lunch.

Anantara Dhigu’s evocative location is matched by a tranquil island design approach that feels like home away from home while providing guests with their every need.

Anantara Veli, located very close to Anantara Dhigu, is one of the few adult-only islands in the Maldives where white sand and azure waters provide the perfect setting. The resort is perfectly suited to couples or groups of friends looking for a relaxing island hideaway where turquoise waters beckon from a choice of intimate accommodation bungalows, some with direct lagoon access.

Relax with a loved one in the over water bungalows, as a spectacular plethora of sea life swims in the crystal-clear lagoon beneath or unwind on a sun deck overlooking the palm fringed island and pristine coral reefs in the South Male Atoll, just 35 minutes from Velana International Airport. For guests who wish to experience ultimate relaxation, exclusive access to Sundari Ayurvedic Spa will provide a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.

Anantara Veli also boasts convenient dining options, such as international cuisines at 73 Degrees and Thai food at the esteemed Baan Huraa, which will re-open in May following an extensive refurbishment. In the evening, add an element of gourmet dining with a unique menu designed by guests and the chef, served on a deserted sandbank that has a backdrop of a breathtaking Maldivian sunset.

For seekers of exclusivity and privacy, nestled on a stunning small island is Naladhu Maldives, an idyllic location that offers the best retreat for couples looking for the ultimate romantic hideaway.

Naladhu, taken from the Dhivehi word meaning “beautiful little island,” is a luxurious, intimate island resort located on Velighandu Huraa in South Male Atoll.

The award-winning resort offers a unique holiday home-like feeling, underpinned by a utopia of seclusion that is created by private and tailored services. This combined with 19 Houses and one Residence, facing the lagoon or the ocean that each pay homage to a blend of colonial style interiors, taking influence from India, Sri Lanka and of course the Maldives. Each house is hidden away in pristinely kept vegetation, entwined with sandy paths that seem to wind endlessly, along with your imagination and dreams.

Naladhu guests have the exclusive option to mix and match fine wines, ocean breezes and excellent cuisine choices. Overlooking the lagoon, The Living Room is an elegant beachfront dining scene. Discover the complex aromas combined with the depth of flavours as the resident Wine Guru shares the secrets and timeless tales of great wine through the centuries.