Barceló Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of its first Maldives resort, Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives, in South Ari atoll. The exclusive five-star resort offers a sanctuary that harmoniously blends natural splendour with refined service.
“The Barceló Whale Lagoon Resort marks a significant milestone in our global journey, representing our dedication to creating extraordinary experiences. This enchanting resort exemplifies the beauty and allure of the Maldives, offering a haven for discerning travellers seeking unmatched indulgence,” said Santi Rodriguez-Bustelo, General Manager of Barceló Whale lagoon Maldives.
The resort features 100 villas including 63 Beach Villas, 30 Water Villas, and seven Beach Suites with plunge pools, each providing sweeping vistas of the ocean and direct access to pristine beaches.
Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives offers three restaurants and three bars, as well as a snack bar. Its main restaurant, Sea Salt Restaurant and Lounge, is a multi-faceted dining experience that offers a range of culinary delights. The restaurant offers an indoor area, a semi-open area, an outdoor terrace, and a lounge bar, allowing guests to choose the ambiance that suits their mood.
Sea Salt offers an open kitchen concept for buffet-style meals served during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Food lovers can also indulge in themed buffet nights, which showcase the authentic flavours of diverse cultures, includingOriental-Asian Street food, International Classics, South American, Middle Eastern, Indian Ocean cuisine.
The show cooking areas at Sea Salt feature expert chefs who display their passion for food and flavours, creating a unique culinary experience for guests. During these events, guests can witness awe-inspiring kitchen skills and creativity as the chefs prepare their meals. With a focus on both aesthetics and taste, the chefs demonstrate their ability to create not just visually stunning dishes but also ones that are bursting with flavour. It’s an indulgent gastronomic adventure, where the art of cooking is elevated to a whole new level.
Aqua, the resort’s Mediterranean fusion restaurant is a fine-dining outlet with a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative recipes. The restaurant boasts indoor and outdoor seating, offering guests the option to dine in air-conditioned comfort or under the stars. For a truly special dining experience, guests can also dine one of the two private palm-covered palapas, which offer a secluded and intimate setting for aromantic dinner or a gathering of friends.
The menu at Aqua features an impressive selection of seafood dishes, as well as a variety of meat dishes, pasta, and salads. With impeccable service, an elegant ambiance, and stunning ocean views, Aqua is theperfect place to indulge in a delicious meal while enjoying the beauty of the Maldives.
For those looking to relax with a cocktail can choose from the lagoon pool bar, Magical, or the resort’s pool bar, Breeze, offering the best views of the sunset.
Located near the resort’s Lagoon pool, the Magical pool bar offers uninterrupted ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation, allowing guests to enjoy appetisers and healthy bites with vibrant views.
Radiating warmth and openness, Breeze is the resort’s culinary cocktail bar taking the art of mixology to new heights. The perfect balance between sophistication and casual comfort is achieved with an atmosphere that is inviting and relaxed. Breeze is the go-to-spot for basking in the glow of the setting sun. Guests are welcomed to explore a wide array of expertly crafted cocktails and healthy beverages while the evening entertainment amps up the lively energy.
Cravings are covered with the mix cuisine that are perfect for those looking to munch on a delicious and guilt-free snack. The poke bowls, raw meats, pastas, and fritters add a zing to the palate to fuel one through the evening. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind or to celebrate a special occasion with loved ones, Breeze promises to deliver an unparalleled experience.
The resort features two large infinity pools, one with full views of the Maldivian sunsets, and the other with panoramic views of Ari Atoll.
Its Mandara spa offers a haven of relaxation, delivering an assortment of treatments and therapies that nurture holistic well-being amidst serene surroundings.
Barceló Whale Lagoon Maldives is located in close proximity to the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), where whale sharks can be spotted throughout the year. A host of marine adventures are on offer as well, including snorkelling, diving and water sports.
The resort’s beach-chic vibe makes it an ideal destination for any traveller looking for a five-star experience. Guests can also look forward to a taste of the local culture and heritage with traditional performances and curated excursions.
Barceló Hotel Group, the hotel division of the Barceló Group, is the second largest hotel chain in Spain and one of top 30 in the world. It currently operates more than 280 four and five-star city and holiday hotels in 25 countries and marketed under four brands: Royal Hideaway Luxury Hotels & Resorts, Barceló Hotels & Resorts, Occidental Hotels & Resorts and Allegro Hotels. It is also part of the Crestline Hotels & Resorts group, an independent hotel company with 130 establishments.
