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Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas unveils expansive private pool residences collection
Setting a new precedent in naturally inspired design and luxurious living in the greatest aquatic paradise on earth, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas has launched its collection of the largest private pool residences in the world with the renovation completion of the resort’s two-bedroom over water pool residences.
A multi-million-dollar project which started in 2020 with the redesign of its four-,three- and two- bedroom beach pool residences, this exclusive collection of Maldivian accommodation experiences, comprising of seven, is the pinnacle of palatial seclusion, ideally suited for multi-generational vacations and larger group travel.
Inspired by the natural beauty of the island encircled by a pure white shoreline, the renovation of the residences saw a careful preservation of the element of space while marrying a light and airy interior refit with smart technology home comforts. Thus, creating a balance between an utterly brand-new look and maintaining a welcoming familiarity which repeat guests have come to expect in the resort’s 10th year of service excellence.
Two-Bedroom Overwater Pool Residences
Perched over a crystal-calm lagoon and offering commanding views of the Indian Ocean, both units of Anantara Kihavah’s Two-Bedroom Over Water Pool Residence were completed in early 2021.
The quintessential Maldivian experience, these over water retreats generously spaced at 1,500 sqm, feature floor-to-ceiling windows across its entirety, guaranteeing vast views of shades of blue.
Outfitted with a professional working kitchen in the living and dining room, each ensuite bedroom at either end features ample individual outdoor living space, whilst the infinity pool and shaded outdoor dining salais the ideal hangout for shared leisure activities with family or friends.
With fitness and wellness being a bigger focus than ever in the modern-day traveller’s needs, the redesign of these residences saw the addition of a gym fully equipped with the latest in TechnoGym machinery, and a couple’s spa treatment room.
Both rooms are fitted with retractable blinds, allowing for ample sunlight by day and unfiltered stargazing at night.
While relaxing with a signature Anantara Spa massage, a peek into the marine life in abundance just beneath the residence, is made possible with the strategic placement of glass panels underneath plush spa treatment beds.
Glass-bottomed whirlpool bathtubs have also been fitted in each bathroom, providing therapeutic massages and astounding underwater views even during bath time.
Staying true to the heritage of the Maldives, each residence features Kajanthatched palm roofs and Balau hardwood flooring spanning the entire length of its expansive outdoor deck, accompanied by netted hammocks suspended over water.
Tiled in natural Sukabumhi stone, the infinity pool presents an ever-shifting overtone of green and blue with each movement of the sun, mirroring the hues of its turquoise-coloured surroundings.
Four, Three-, Two-Bedroom Beach Pool Residences
At a commanding 2,000 sqm, the crown jewel in this collection is the Four-Bedroom Beach Pool Residence.
A connecting door set at the end of a lush garden pathway, adjoins a standalone villa fitted with its own ensuite, infinity pool and dining pavilion, with the main wing of the residence.
A capacious layout smartly optimised for creating shared memories or moments of solitude, this four-bedroom sanctuary comfortably accommodates up to eight adults and four children, or 12 adults.
In testament to the premise of luxury at its most spacious, the collection’s remaining beachfront hideaways start from 1,330 sqm for the two-bedroom option to 1,770 sqm for the three-bedroom residence.
Cradled by lush foliage and bright bougainvillea accents, occasional sights of coconut trees jutting through floors or ceilings is testament to the resort’s commitment toward preserving the natural beauty of the island, while optimising each residence’s space.
Like the over water pool residences, each beachfront residence’s architecture reflects Kajanpalm roofs and Balau decks.
The newly extended swimming pools, measuring 20 metres x 6 metres for the four-bedroom retreat and 16 metres x 6 metres for the two- and three- bedroom residences, are now fitted with massage jets, while an outdoor Sala Thai provides shaded relief for lounging and dining.
The simple yet elegant façade belies the intricate redesign within.
A light neutral palette uplifts a previously dark wood scheme, presenting an atmosphere that is at once comfortable and relaxed, yet modern and luxurious.
Rattan details, woven straw carpets, Maldivian motifs and teak wood furniture further accents the distinctively tropical vibe of each room. Floor-to-ceiling doors of the main living and dining area effortlessly slides open for sweeping views of the tropics.
Further embodying island living at its most luxurious, a water feature wall designed to mimic that of a real waterfall, is the highlight in each revamped bathroom newly fitted with intelligent toilet technology.
Wellbeing and fitness are also not forgotten – with each residence outfitted with its own private double-bed spa treatment room and gym featuring a complete range of fitness equipment.
With a dedicated Villa Host to attend to every need, and a Wine Sommelier, Personal Chef and Baby-Sitting service on request, a stay in one of these residences is a promise of a truly private escape.
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands will welcome Indian chef and restaurateur Atul Kochhar for a culinary residency from 7 to 9 November 2026, coinciding with Diwali.
Kochhar, the first Indian chef to be awarded a Michelin star, will bring the culinary approach of his London restaurant, Kanishka by Atul Kochhar, to Helios. The residency will present his contemporary interpretation of India’s regional cuisines, drawing on the traditions and influences that have shaped his cooking.
Rooted in Kochhar’s connection to India, the menu will combine regional flavours with contemporary techniques and carefully selected ingredients. It will reflect his approach to developing Indian cuisine while retaining its cultural foundations.
With more than 30 years in the industry, Kochhar has built an international reputation for his contribution to Indian dining. He received his first Michelin star in 2001, followed by another in 2007. His culinary philosophy brings together India’s regional diversity, traditional cooking practices and contemporary methods.
At Patina Maldives, this philosophy will be interpreted through the resort’s Indian Ocean setting and the multicultural character of the Fari Islands. The residency will give Kochhar an opportunity to adapt his culinary identity to the island and the Diwali celebrations, creating an experience shaped by the occasion and its surroundings.
Kochhar leads the Atul Kochhar Hospitality Group, whose portfolio includes Kanishka in Mayfair, Vaasu and Sindhu in Marlow, Riwaz in Beaconsfield, Masalchi in Wembley Park, Indian Essence in Petts Wood and Essence in Tunbridge Wells.
The residency forms part of Patina Maldives’ culinary programme, which connects guests with different cultures, perspectives and creative disciplines. Through Kochhar’s cooking, guests will have an opportunity to explore India’s regional food traditions and celebrate Diwali through shared dining experiences.
Baros Maldives will welcome guests for its festive season from 22 December 2026 to 7 January 2027, with a programme centred on the island’s natural surroundings, Maldivian heritage and a series of culinary, marine and cultural experiences.
The programme will combine Christmas and New Year traditions with activities inspired by island life, including ocean excursions, local cultural experiences, festive dining and wellbeing sessions.
The season will begin with a Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, followed by a series of activities introducing guests to festive traditions and Maldivian culture. These will include a Christmas cookie workshop, an Ocean, Coconut & Spice cooking class, a Maldivian Heritage Evening and an Island Christmas Market.
Marine experiences will remain a central part of the festive programme. Guests will be able to join a Sunrise Nooma sailing experience, take part in fishing trips at sunrise or twilight, explore the house reef with the resort’s marine team or join a dolphin-watching cruise.
Private yacht excursions, visits to local islands and trips to Malé will also be available for guests wishing to explore beyond the resort.
Baros Maldives will also offer a series of culinary experiences throughout the festive period. These will include a Sake Pairing Dinner, a Great Gatsby-themed five-course dinner and a Champagne Dinner inspired by the Seven Seas.
Other dining experiences will include a Butcher’s Block buffet, an Omakase tasting lunch and a Master Chef Tuna Carving Show & Tasting. Guests will also be able to take part in wine discovery experiences, cocktail-making sessions and an Island Crafted Cocktails programme.
On Christmas Eve, guests will gather at The Lighthouse for a cocktail reception before continuing to Lime for the Christmas Eve Gala Dinner.
Christmas Day will feature breakfast, festive activities and time for guests to enjoy the beach, lagoon and other island experiences with family and friends.
New Year’s Eve celebrations will begin with a cocktail reception, followed by a Gala Dinner, live entertainment and the countdown to 2027.
New Year’s Day will start with a celebratory brunch, followed by a selection of wellbeing and dining experiences. These will include a beachfront degustation dinner accompanied by live violin and saxophone performances.
Younger guests will also have a dedicated programme of festive activities, including mocktail-making, Christmas cookie workshops and island-based activities designed for families and children.
Throughout the season, Baros Maldives will host live music, marine presentations, yoga and meditation sessions alongside its wider programme of dining, recreation and ocean experiences.
The festive programme is intended to reflect the character of Baros Maldives by combining Christmas and New Year celebrations with the island’s marine environment, culinary offering and Maldivian culture.
From 21 December 2026 to 1 January 2027, Niva Kuramathi will mark the festive season with “A Tropical Festive Season”, a programme of dining, entertainment, outdoor activities and family experiences shaped around the island setting.
The programme will make use of Kuramathi’s natural surroundings, including its house reef and sandbank, alongside its 12 restaurants and seven bars.
The festivities will begin on the evening of 21 December with a Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on the sandbank. Guests will be welcomed with drinks and live music at sunset, followed later in the evening by a traditional Bodu Beru performance.
On 28 and 29 December, the resort will host a traditional Maldivian Market, featuring Bodu Beru drumming, a folklore parade and locally made artisanal crafts.
Christmas Eve festivities
Christmas Eve celebrations will begin on the sandbank at sunset, with welcome drinks and Christmas carols. Santa Claus and his elves will also make an appearance before guests gather for a gala buffet dinner.
The evening will conclude with an outdoor screening of a classic Christmas film under the stars.
Countdown to 2027
New Year’s Eve celebrations will begin at sunset with cocktails on the sandbank.
A gala dinner will then be served across Farivalhu, Malaafaiy and Haruge restaurants before the countdown to 2027. Fireworks will mark the arrival of the New Year, while live music and DJ performances will continue at Fung Bar and Sand Bar.
Festive activities
Throughout the festive period, Niva Kuramathi will offer a programme of recreational, culinary and entertainment activities.
Guests will be able to take part in moonlit yoga sessions on the sandbank, sand sculpting, Sip & Paint evenings for couples and fire dance performances.
Sporting activities will include beach volleyball, a football match between the Niva Kuramathi team and guests, as well as kayak, pedal boat and stand-up paddleboard races.
The entertainment programme will also include wine tastings, karaoke, music trivia, live music and DJ evenings.
Cooking classes will be held at Kobe, where guests will be able to take part in sessions centred around the restaurant’s open kitchen experience.
The festive programme is designed to allow guests to participate in scheduled activities while also having the option to spend time at leisure.
The season will conclude on 1 January 2027 with a late-morning brunch and the first house reef dive of the year.
Festive programme for children
Bageecha Kids Club will host a separate festive programme for younger guests, combining recreation, creative activities and environmental learning.
Activities will include treasure hunts, splash pad games, cookie-making, arts and crafts, eco workshops, nature exploration, holiday films, karaoke, bracelet-making and gardening in the resort’s hydroponic garden.
Children will also be able to take part in scavenger hunts, mini-Olympic games, yoga and disco dancing, as well as shared lunches and dinners with other young guests.
On Christmas Eve, the programme will begin with a family photograph session, followed by gingerbread house decorating, writing letters to Santa, a palm-leaf handicraft workshop and outdoor games.
Christmas morning will feature a pyjama party with musical games and pool activities. Later in the day, families will gather at Athiri Deck to welcome Santa Claus, who will distribute gifts to children.
New Year’s Eve activities for younger guests will take place during the afternoon, with music and games around the pool followed by a children’s disco as part of the resort’s final celebrations of 2026.
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