Maldives is widely known as one of the few remaining places on planet earth where you can still experience the natural world at its untouched best. Soneva Jani’s sought-after exclusivity is enhanced by the marine protected area it sits within, and its marine life and supporting ecosystem is thriving as a result. The Soneva Foundation grow up to 150,000 corals fragments every year doing it’s part in marine conservation. This is just one of the many sustainability initiatives launched by owner Sonu Shivdasani.
Soneva Jani is situated in Manadhoo, a remote Maldivian enclave that is an easy seaplane ride from the Seaplane Terminal in Malé. All guests travelling via anywhere in the world will be escorted “door to door”, starting with a warm greeting after immigration, escorting you to your land transfer, and all the way to the seaplane waiting area at Soneva’s very own lounge with assorted snacks and drinks, making your exciting escapade a simply seamless one.
When you visit the property that sits on Medhufaru Island, you can be assured of the ultimate in privacy and tranquillity. Here, a relaxed and informal luxury combines with exquisite personalised service to provide a sanctuary you have always dreamt of. You will even be asked on check-in, if you like to take off your footwear to experience this barefoot ultra luxury at it’s best! (Even the countless number of native crabs crawling on the island would agree).
Due to this location, if you are travelling in a larger group, the best way to reach Soneva Jani is by chartering their very own private seaplane. It flies often, every week from Velana International Airport which is easily accessed from Singapore, Asia and the rest of the world. The planes are well maintained with comfortable seats. The professionally trained pilots will make your flight as smooth as possible. The flight time is approximately 45 minutes.
Accommodation
Perched over pristine turquoise waters, the 1 Bedroom Water Reserve with Slide is the perfect backdrop to your splendid getaway. Marvel at panoramic views of the blue horizon as you lounge on your expansive verandah with not one, two but three sofa beds and even a swing. Or better yet, on your sunbeds spread over the sundeck that leads directly into the crystal clear waters below. Then, before retiring for the evening in the comfortable air conditioned room, cuddle up close for some stargazing on your very bed at the starry skies above, through the retractable roof at the push of a button.
These overwater villas have been designed to immerse you in the natural beauty of the island. Floor to ceiling windows bring the outside in, whilst the pool terrace create pure luxury of space. With privacy and tranquillity embedded as the guiding principles for their locations, each of them are set amidst private partitioning at either side, whilst the infinity pool appear to melt into the uninterrupted ocean views. Speaking of your own private pool (located near the outdoor water slide), is also a good place to have a floating breakfast with a scrumptious spread of healthy local and international dishes.
There is even a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area with the dining table set over a see-through glass floor. Two toilets, twin vanity basins, indoor and outdoor standing shower and a bathtub for that relaxing soak, what more can you ask for! There is even three entry points into the ocean and of course the water slide that will bring the child-like nature out of you. Love your villa, why not buy it! Soneva Villa Ownership (SVO) is the first and only company to offer real estate to foreign buyers in the Maldives. The portfolio of luxury property for sale includes plots of land where you can also build your very own.
Dining
Soneva Jani offers both elegant indoor and al fresco dining experience at Director’s Cut in a smart-casual, laid-back ambience. The cuisine can be described as contemporary Japanese with particular inspiration from the region. Indulge in chef’s creations like the Special Sushi and Sashimi Selection, served like the Nihon classics with a touch of modernity, while enjoying the film projected at the over-water wide screen suitable for all ages. This course features seafood in both raw and aburi (flame-seared) styles of dining.
Each of Soneva Jani’s food and beverage establishments evokes a different rapport with its surroundings, but fresh ingredients prepared to perfection is what threads across them. Whether sitting under the gentle sway of the coconut trees with sea-side views at The Crab Shack, allowing guests to catch up with work matters while digging into a scrumptious meal. Highly recommended is finger-licking good Chef Ranadewa’s Holy Crab, made from a secret recipe handed down by his family over many generations.
Overseas by Mathias Dahlgren’s menu changes frequently, and comprise the finest of imported and local produce. Chef’s Choices is unscripted and often determined by availability of the very best from Soneva Jani’s own organic farm (which guests are encouraged to visit during their stay) and sustainably focus catch by local fishermen. Integral to Soneva’s ethos is healthy eating. The pescatarian, vegetarian and plant-based dishes have curated flavours influenced by this and the romantic overwater lagoon venue.
An all day establishment, Down to Earth promises delectable concoctions with a side of stunning ocean views. Think gorgeous salads, wood-fired pizzas straight from the oven and more. Indulge your inner child by sitting at the swinging sofas, or opt for an overwater netted hammock at water’s edge. Must try are the refreshing Melon Gazpacho Soup prefect for hot weather and Quinoa Avocado Salad that also consist of pomegranate, cherry tomato, cucumber, pumpkin and sunflower seeds with lime dressing.
Wellness/Activities
Soneva Soul is a natural retreat that promises to restore balance. Much more then a spa, this is a wellness all-in-one that spans over two enormous complexes at Soneva Jani. Offering a range of rejuvenating treatments specially designed to melt away stress and enhance well-being, from massages to scrubs every selection aims to deliver maximum holistic wholeness and relaxation.
A variety of yoga and meditation classes and well equipped gym with private one-to-one sessions, all designed to help you connect with the surrounding power of the ocean, nature and cultivate a sense of inner peace. Discover a better you and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. There is a juice bar too, for healthy and delicious post treatment refreshments.
What sets this property apart from the rest is their range of medical facilities back by science and innovation. An in-depth consultation with your choice of three doctors, each an expert in their respective fields of Naturopathy, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and Ayurveda. Dr Ashley Aperocho is the resident naturopathic doctor who has an impressive medical background in physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. You will receive a customised treatment plan focusing on your health goals by her after a comprehensive session. This can include appropriate diet, lifestyle, nutraceutical, botanical, homeopathic and regenerative therapy such as usage of herbs and stem cells.
Not only famed for its intensely beautiful sunrises and sunsets, Soneva Jani is also a most ideal location to catch stunning views of the stars, moon, and even planets plus the Milky Way (depending on the time of the year). With breathtaking views of the night sky due to such minimal light-pollution, the island provides a magical setting with the in-house astronomer to partake in what might just become your latest favourite pastime.
Soneva Jani beckons water sports enthusiasts with an array of activities. From snorkelling to kayaking, the island offers eco-friendly, entertaining pursuits. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the surrounding crystal-clear waters provide the perfect playground. For more leisure guests, go for the Sunset Dolphin Cruise. While the super cute and playful mammals sighting is not guarantee, the canapés and sparkling wine is. Plus on a good day, the sunset is immaculate. Perfect for families or even some “me time” to enjoy these serene moments on the water, leaving you with cherished memories.
ADDRESS:
Medhufaru Island, Manadhoo, Maldives
PHONE: +960 656-6666
WEBSITE: https://soneva.com/resorts/soneva-jani/