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Ifuru Island launches exclusive retreats for families and groups
Ifuru Island Maldives has announced the launch of four spectacular island retreats: three 20-Bedroom Family Retreats and the expansive 32-Bedroom Island Reserve, which stands as the largest of its kind in the world. Specifically designed for families and groups seeking extraordinary experiences, these retreats seamlessly blend luxury, comfort, and tropical adventure. Whether guests are looking to relax in style or participate in thrilling excursions, Ifuru Island offers a remarkable getaway for all.
The 20-Bedroom Family Retreats consist of three distinct units: Ocean Retreat Island Reserve, Island Retreat Reserve, and Seaside Retreat Island Reserve. Each unit features five charming duplexes, with two spacious rooms on the upper floor and two on the lower floor, providing the perfect setting for families to reconnect and unwind.
Guests can enjoy the vibrant private outdoor social lounge, which serves as an ideal space for sharing meals, sipping cocktails, and enjoying quality time together. Whether engaging in friendly competitions or exchanging stories over drinks, this retreat fosters the creation of cherished memories. It offers a perfect balance of comfort and togetherness, making it an idyllic choice for family getaways.
For larger gatherings, the 32-Bedroom Island Reserve—featuring the stunning Reef Retreat Island Reserve—caters to every need. Each suite is beautifully furnished to serve as a sanctuary of comfort, allowing guests to relax in style. With breathtaking views and an array of luxurious amenities, the Island Reserve is perfect for big families and groups seeking their own piece of paradise. The expansive living areas, exceptional service, and picturesque surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable experiences together.
Both retreats come fully equipped with a range of amenities to ensure that every stay is nothing short of extraordinary:
- Welcome Goodies: Guests receive a warm island welcome in every suite.
- Group Transfers: Private domestic transfers for 50 to 60 guests are available for those arriving on the same flight.
- Personal Island Buddy: Each group is assigned a dedicated Buddy to cater to all their needs.
- Family Sunset Cocktails & BBQ: Families can gather for an unforgettable evening in the Sunken Lounge.
- Cocktail & Mocktail Class: Guests can learn to craft their own drinks in a fun and interactive session.
- The Waterfront Lunch & Sunset Hi-Tea: A delightful lunch followed by afternoon tea on the deck is offered for guests to enjoy.
- Choose Your Adventure: Guests can choose between a sunset cruise or a local island excursion.
- Scavenger Hunt: A fun activity that encourages a little friendly competition.
- Wellness Activities: Group yoga or sound healing sessions are available to help guests unwind.
- Sports & Recreation: Guests can participate in beach volleyball or make use of the tennis/multipurpose court.
- Tree Planting Activity: A heartwarming opportunity to give back to the island through tree planting.
- Movie Night: A cozy film night can be enjoyed at the private cinema.
- Photo Session: A 20-minute photo reel session allows guests to capture special moments.
- Laundry Service: Complimentary laundry service for five pieces per room is provided to keep wardrobes fresh.
- Departure Gift: Guests receive a thoughtful memento to remind them of their island getaway.
Located just steps away from pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, these retreats invite guests to explore beach activities, immerse themselves in local culture, or simply relax under the sun.
Whether planning a family reunion, a celebration, or a chance to reconnect, the 20-Bedroom Family Retreats and 32-Bedroom Island Reserve provide the perfect backdrop for laughter, love, and unforgettable experiences.
In addition to these exceptional retreats, Ifuru Island Maldives features 147 sunset suites and villas, 6 dining options—including 2 signature restaurants and 4 bars—offering a 24-hour premium all-inclusive experience. The resort is also home to the Maldives’ first permanent Skydive dropzone, providing a truly unique attraction for thrill-seekers.
ELE|NA has been named Leading Wellness and Spa Brand at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026, recognising the Maldives-based wellness brand’s contributions to the hospitality and wellness industry across the region.
The recognition comes as wellness continues to become an integral part of luxury hospitality, with ELE|NA working alongside resort partners to develop and operate wellness facilities that combine therapeutic experiences, trained professionals and operational expertise.
Guided by its Wellness Your Way™ philosophy, ELE|NA incorporates wellness into different aspects of the guest experience. Its six Pillars of Vitality – TouchFlow, ReFine, BodyFit, SoulVibe, SleepSync and FoodDelight – encompass therapeutic treatments, physical activity, emotional wellbeing, restorative sleep and nutrition. The framework allows individual resorts to develop wellness programmes tailored to their locations and guest preferences.
In addition to providing wellness experiences, ELE|NA works with hospitality partners on concept development, spa operations, therapist training and service delivery. Its operational model combines the individual characteristics of each resort with standardised systems and procedures aimed at maintaining service consistency across its properties.
Sustainability also forms part of the brand’s operations. All ELE|NA properties in the Maldives have received Platinum Sustainable Wellness Accreditation, recognising their approach to responsible spa operations, environmental management and community wellbeing.
The brand also invests in professional development through the ELE|NA Wellness Academy, which provides training programmes for therapists and wellness professionals. The academy combines traditional therapeutic practices, practical training and contemporary wellness knowledge to support professional development and strengthen service standards across the industry.
The recognition at SATA 2026 comes as ELE|NA continues to expand its operations beyond the Maldives, extending its wellness concepts and services into India, Nepal and other emerging hospitality destinations.
With wellness increasingly influencing travellers’ accommodation choices and holiday experiences, ELE|NA continues to focus on integrating wellness services into resort operations while supporting the development of trained professionals and sustainable practices within the hospitality sector.
Milaidhoo Maldives is set to welcome award-winning chef James Knight-Paccheco, widely known as Chef JKP, on 11 and 12 December 2026 for two culinary events focusing on cooking techniques, culinary experiences and the exploration of new flavours.
On 11 December, Chef JKP will conduct a culinary workshop, offering guests the opportunity to cook alongside him, learn professional techniques and exchange ideas in the kitchen. The following evening, he will host a wine-pairing dinner featuring dishes prepared in his signature style, accompanied by wines selected by the resort’s resident sommelier to complement each course.
With more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Chef JKP has worked in Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels and restaurant projects across the UK and the Middle East. Throughout his career, he has worked alongside renowned chefs including Raymond Blanc, Gordon Ramsay and Michael Caines. He is also the creator and host of The Chef JKP Podcast, which has recorded more than 6.5 million downloads.
At Milaidhoo Maldives, the culinary experience draws inspiration from the island’s surroundings, Maldivian flavours and traditional cooking methods, combined with international influences introduced by the resort’s team of chefs. This approach encourages the exchange of culinary knowledge and techniques, allowing guests to explore local dishes, learn new cooking methods and engage with the chefs responsible for their dining experiences.
Located within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Milaidhoo offers a setting where dining experiences focus on personalised service and interaction between guests and culinary professionals. Chef JKP’s visit is intended to provide guests with opportunities to engage directly with the visiting chef, gain insights into his approach to cooking and experience his culinary creations.
The culinary workshop will take place on 11 December 2026, followed by the wine-pairing dinner on 12 December 2026.
Reethi Faru Resort has welcomed the festive season with its annual Fruit Mixing Ceremony, marking the beginning of a programme of celebrations, activities and experiences for guests visiting the resort during the Christmas and New Year period.
The resort has prepared a series of festive events and activities catering to guests of different ages and interests. Families will have the opportunity to participate in Christmas tree decorating, creative workshops and gingerbread house making, while couples can enjoy evening walks along beaches decorated with festive lights.
The festive programme will include a Christmas dinner and a New Year’s Eve gala, followed by a DJ party to welcome 2027. Guests will also be able to participate in coral planting activities alongside a marine biologist, providing an opportunity to learn about the island’s marine ecosystem and contribute to conservation efforts.
For guests seeking relaxation, the resort will offer yoga sessions and spa treatments, while those interested in outdoor activities can participate in water sports, island excursions, sports challenges and PADI diving experiences conducted by certified instructors.
Other events scheduled during the festive period include Reethi Faru Resort’s anniversary celebration, a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and the arrival of Santa Claus. The programme will also feature live music, Maldivian cultural performances, outdoor movie nights and a selection of dining experiences.
According to the resort, the festive programme has been designed to bring together traditional Christmas and New Year celebrations with activities that highlight the Maldives’ natural environment and cultural heritage.
Through its combination of festive events, recreational activities, marine conservation initiatives and dining experiences, Reethi Faru Resort aims to provide guests with opportunities to celebrate the holiday season while experiencing island life in the Maldives.
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