After a smooth check-in at Heritance Aarah, let your butler take care of your every need; the best part is they will get to know individual likes and dislikes to personalise the experience making it even more unique. The butler is on hand throughout the day, being contactable via WhatsApp where guests can request to book the spa, make restaurant reservations, or join activities and events at the resort. 

Take a dip in the azure waters of the atoll, treat yourself at IASO Spa, or have a walk around the island. The beauty of Heritance Aarah is that one can do as much or as little as they please; time seems to flow differently. Speaking of time, a great feature of the resort is that it has its own time, one hour ahead of Male, giving a greater opportunity to enjoy the sun later in the day, but careful not to miss those all-important dinner or spa reservations!

When it comes to accommodation options, Heritance Aarah does not fall short of expectations; with 150 thatched villas and suites, that are steps away from the pristine atoll waters. Beach Villas can also include a private pool, should you wish to upgrade. Ocean Villas do not have private pools but feature direct sea access for exploring the marine life flourishing around them. For ultimate exclusivity and true bliss in an adults-only area, why not upgrade to Overwater Suites with a private pool, featuring a spacious bedroom on the upper floor and a living room with a wide deck. These also include exclusive access to a stunning overwater infinity pool and Baani, an eclectic fine dining restaurant. 

All villas and suites are tastefully decorated in a nod to traditional Maldivian style, while having modern and high-end touches, giving a luxurious feel.

No trip to Heritance Aarah should be completed without taking advantage of the resort’s IASO Spa, a true holistic experience. Alleviate stress and tension while watching the marine life through the glass floor of the treatment rooms and be guided by one of the skilled wellness experts into one of many treatment options available. From nutrition and wellness programs to aesthetics and massage treatments, IASO Spa promises a unique experience tailored to individual needs. Every detail is thought through, even offering the option of choosing a favourite massage aroma. A visit to IASO Spa is the perfect way to start a holiday in this corner of paradise, leaving you rested and relaxed.

My therapy of choice was a Balinese Massage (in the Maldives, I know) with coconut oil and I cannot recommend it enough! It left me calm and rejuvenated, ready to make the all-important decision of where to dine next…

With regard to dining at Heritance Aarah, the resort offers top tier food and beverage options.

Exceptional dining is included at four restaurants:

• Ralu – à la carte and open throughout the day, taking inspiration from French brasseries. Perfect for either a late breakfast or for viewing the sunset with a drink in hand.

• Ranba – a buffet restaurant with themes from around the world changing daily.

• Ginifathi – on the beach à la carte grill for seafood lovers, offering fresh options and a menu alternating twice weekly.

• Ambula – an 8-course tasting menu featuring contemporary Sri Lankan and Maldivian flavours, with wine pairings. The menu never changes but it is an experience worth repeating. 

A fifth option comes in the form of Hatha, an interactive dining experience showcasing Japanese or Thai street food, for a supplement.

No matter the choice, every single meal is presented in a beautiful way with great attention to detail and is delicious! Our favourite was dining on the beach at Ginifathi, enjoying a juicy sea bream cooked with Maldivian spices, wrapped and baked in palm leaves. 

The beverage options are truly extensive, catering for every taste and the cocktail menu alone spoils for choice with 30 unique flavours to be enjoyed in all five bars and selected restaurants on the island – the Gin & Lychee is not to be missed! Premium All Inclusive also comes with a minibar replenished daily with the drinks of your choice (two bottles of spirits daily and a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival) as well as soft drinks, chocolates & a Nespresso machine.

Heritance Aarah provides the perfect balance of R&R and activities to keep you busy all day. Dive, snorkel and explore the vibrant coral reef or perhaps try your hand at fishing and if you’re lucky, sample your own catch later for lunch… cooked to your preference of course. Alternatively, explore the shallow sea with a kayak or paddleboard or get your adrenaline pumping and hit the waves taking part in water skiing. 

For those wanting more land-based options, there are plenty to choose from, be it themed nights, cocktail making masterclasses or just hitting the tennis court. 

This is just a sampling of the multitude of activities Heritance Aarah has in store for guests who wish to make the most out of their stay, creating memories for a lifetime.