Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa

Le Méridien brings another recognisable brand from the Marriott stable to the Maldives. It sits somewhere in the middle of the portfolio, and at a price point that invites stiff competition.

The resort has a dedicated lounge at Male seaplane terminal which it shares with sister property Westin. The seaplane flight in gives a great view of the long strip of a natural island: 9 hectares in size with wide beaches and an expansive lagoon that will appeal to swimmers.



The 134 villas are a mixed bag. Those expecting luxury will find the beach villas quite small compared to other resorts at this level (with no desk or dressing table to sit at or work from), although it’s nice to have the WC separate from the bathroom, opposite the dressing area. The overwater villas are a different kettle of fish: much brighter and more spacious, particularly the two-bedroom pool villa. There are no cushions on the villa sun loungers but these can be requested.

With a strong international brand comes investment, and this is best illustrated by the excellent range of facilities. The overwater Explore Spa, gym and wellness complex (Waves Lifestyle Hub), a new padel tennis court (chargeable), kids’ club, health clinic, and boutique-come-art studio are all excellent and run by enthusiastic professionals. Likewise, the dive and water sports centre, managed by Sub Oceanic, and the marine conservation hub are state-of-the-art. ‘The Greenhouse’ hydroponic farm is a unique addition, supplying over 50 kg of super-fresh greens to the restaurants every day. The variety of lettuce is diverse and deliciously fresh. All produce grown in-house is indicated with a leaves logo on the outlet menus — a nice touch. Nothing is wasted: unused greens are distributed to local communities, other nearby resorts, or simply composted for use on the farm.

There is very nice snorkelling to be found both on the house reef and amongst the seagrass fields favoured by turtles and rays. However, the reef is a good distance out, and only strong swimmers would try to reach it from the beach, meaning a boat trip (annoyingly chargeable) is more feasible for most. Guests in the water villas at the far end of the jetty on the west end of the island might access the reef from their villas in the right conditions — it’s easier from there. The resort has also added steps at the very end of the jetty for other guests, making for a much shorter swim when conditions are favourable.

Dining in the signature Japanese restaurant, Tabemasu, is a lovely experience, while the adults-only pool bar La Vie is a great spot for sundowners (adult guests can ring the bell between 6:45–7 pm for a complimentary glass of rosé!). The main restaurant, Turquoise, has a bit of a canteen feel, but there are plenty of food choices to suit all tastes, with live cooking stations, a kids’ corner and an impressive selection of home-made breads. It was nice to see a sand-floor section in Turquoise as well as some tables outside on the beach. Velaa Bar & Grill beside the main pool serves a good variety of light, fresh dishes and interesting drinks, including home-made sodas (the passion fruit and ginger was scrummy!), while Riviera offers Spanish-style dining with views over the ocean. Waves Café is a place for healthy, mindful eating and drinking, using wholesome ingredients served simply. As with many resorts nowadays, all outlets have a QR code you can scan to access the menu; don’t be afraid to ask for a paper one if you prefer it — they do have them and are happy to oblige. There are two All-Inclusive meal plans, one regular and one premium; the latter also includes premium spirits and wines, as well as fresh juices, smoothies and champagne by the glass.

The main resort pool area next to Velaa is popular with many, particularly families. There is a separate kid’s pool and the main pool seems perhaps a little small overall for a resort of this size, but it’s well patronised. There are plenty of sun loungers around (all with cushions), including on the beach, and an efficient team provide beach service with a big smile at the press of a button.

Le Méridien probably works best for active families or couples, staying in the overwater villas, and is proving popular with Marriott customers with reward points to spend!