Hotel Review: Park Hyatt Hadahaa, Maldives

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The Park Hyatt Hadahaa is situated in one of the largest and deepest atolls in the world 400km south of Malé and 56km north of the Equator.

It’s a long journey to get there, an international flight followed by a short domestic hop, then a speedboat ride but, once you’re here, it all seems worthwhile. What you’re getting is complete tranquillity on an island where they’ve retained the jungle vegetation so you really do feel you’re in the wild.

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The surrounding private reef is one of the healthiest in the Maldives and the resort has been certified by the environmental organisation EarthCheck. It goes without saying that marine life is plentiful and you’re bound to see your fill of multi-coloured fish, turtles, rays and even the odd shark.

Accommodation

This is a small resort with a total of 50 villas, 36 on land and 14 on stilts over the ocean. If you’re on land, you’ll be seconds from the beach and you’ll have a private deck with table, chairs, and two sunbeds.

The Park Pool Villas also have their own plunge pool. Inside furnishings are to the expected high standard, with king size bed, floor-to-ceiling windows and a Nespresso machine. The bathroom also has an outdoor annexe with private bath and shower area. The Water Villas are to the same standard and enjoy 180 degree panoramic ocean views from the private deck outside.

Who For

Most people are honeymoon couples, or those celebrating an anniversary but families are welcome.

Facilities

There’s a large 44m fresh water infinity pool but most people come for the snorkelling with the house reef full of marine life including turtles, rays and small harmless sharks. They also offer dolphin watching, scuba diving, and fishing excursions. The Vidhun Spa is light and airy, with high thatched ceilings, five private villas and a 25m tranquillity pool.

Food and Wine

There are two restaurants here, The Dining Room, by the pool, and the more upscale Island Grill, with its open kitchen. Fresh fish is their speciality and they’ll cook it in a regional Maldivian style. Wine, as you’d expect, is expensive.

What’s Nearby

Nothing, that’s the point. You’re completely isolated, even the staff live on the island, and there’s nothing to disturb you.

Wi-Fi Available

Yes it’s free

Room Rates

From $700 per night, based on two people sharing, including breakfast but excluding taxes and transfers.

Booking.com

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How to Get There

Get a flight to Male, capital of the Maldives then an hour’s domestic flight south to Kooddoo. It’s then 30 minutes by speedboat to the resort.