Danish author Isak Dinesen once wrote, “The cure for anything is saltwater: sweat, tears or the sea”. Such was the case at the Maldivian wellness retreat that Leanda Rathmell stayed at recently. Though, while the sea featured heavily (and, yes, a little bit of sweat), there were definitely no tears!
One of four properties in the Four Seasons Maldives collection, Landaa Giraavaru sits on 44 acres of the secluded Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Surrounded by one of the country’s largest lagoons, these shallow waters are full of life. They witness many of nature’s miracles, from magnificent coral formations to gigantic manta ray gatherings. Inspired by such a rich ecosystem, the resort puts wellbeing at the heart of its ethos.
Dive in!
Landaa Giraavaru’s location in the UNESCO reserve places guests in close proximity to several virgin dive sites. It’s also just a short boat ride from renowned manta ray and whale shark hotspots. The PADI Five-Star IDC Dive Centre offers the full spectrum of courses. For example, there are Seal Team AquaMissions (ages 8 and up) and Master courses (the highest non-professional PADI ranking).
Those looking to stay dry can check out DeepFlight Adventures. The world’s first DeepFlight Super Falcon 3S is a personal pressurised submarine that eliminates the need to equalise and has a 360-degree viewing dome. With a professional pilot at the controls, passengers can reach a depth of 120 feet, exploring coral formations and cruising alongside dolphins and shoals of kaleidoscope fish, as well as encounters with the likes of turtles, sharks and manta rays.
Back on land, you get to learn more about these magnificent creatures at The Marine Discovery Centre. You’ll also hear of ongoing projects such as a Sea Turtle Conservation Program and a Maldivian Manta Ray Project. The resort works with coral transplanting and ornamental fish breeding too.
Sweat, baby, sweat
Landaa Giraavaru provides the perfect spot to unplug and explore a myriad of different yoga practices. The resort’s four Indian-trained yogis conduct 17 complimentary classes each week. These include classic Sun Salutations, evening Yoga Nidra and supportive Aqua Yoga. What’s more, private sessions are available for classic Hatha, Ashtanga and dance-like Vinyasa. In 2014, the resort became the first in Asia to offer the dynamic practice of AntiGravity Yoga. And 2015 saw the launch of the Yoga Energy Trail – a 75-minute guided group class covering a 15-station yoga circuit across the island.
If sport’s more your thing, there’s a fully-equipped water sports centre, floodlit tennis courts, bicycles and an Olympic-sized swimming pool to get the blood pumping!
Healing hands
As a wellness retreat, the resort has a keen focus on natural healing. For example, guests are encouraged to open their minds to the nutritional, physical and emotional benefits of Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest medical systems and holistic sciences that aims to restore the natural balance between the mind, body, and spirit.
With a team of credited therapists, physicians, acupuncturists and yogis at your service, you’re guided in identifying ailments and imbalances, followed by suggested therapies or simple take home methods to help restore the natural state of equilibrium. These can range from extensive multiday Ayurvedic Immersion programmes to simple lifestyle changes, such as introducing a particular herb to the diet or breathing and stretching practices to implement in your everyday routine. Landaa Giraavaru offers complimentary Ayurvedic consultations to all guests too. There’s also a unique Ayurvedic food labelling system on menus to help you keep track even while on holiday.
How to get your dose of this wellness retreat
Singapore Airlines offers direct daily flights from Singapore to Malé. Upon arrival, guests are escorted by Four Seasons on a 35-minute seaplane to Landaa Giraavaru.
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This article first appeared in the October 2018 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!
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