Travel+Leisure India & South Asia travels to the Maldives and experiences the best of flavours and wellness at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kudaa Huraa, the surfer’s haven. By Ishika Laul
Exploring Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kudaa Huraa
Stay
It’s not every day one is on an island surrounded by tranquil skies and blue waters, soaking in the tropical sun. I arrive at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kudaa Huraa for the 10th anniversary of the Four Seasons Surfing Championship. Kudaa Huraa caters to surfers of all levels—beginner, semi-professional, and professional. I take a beginner lesson, and fall irrevocably in love with the world of waves.
But there is more to Kuda Huraa than surfing. The resort has a village setting with flower gardens and a private spa island. Traditional Maldivian design shines through the architecture. While walking around, I spot a dhoni bobbing in the water. It takes me across Kuda Huraa’s blue lagoon to The Island Spa Sanctuary. It is magical, brimming with lush green gardens, ponds, and sandy paths that lead you to treatment rooms. A healing massage later, I am back on the dhoni to discover the rest of the resort.
My villa is tastefully designed, there is an infinity pool overlooking the clear waters of the Maldives. I spend the entire afternoon lounging on the outdoor deck, sipping cocktails, and enjoying occasional dips in the pool and the view of the endless ocean.
Experience
The sun is shining overhead when I make my way to the beachside trattoria—Reef Club—that serves fresh seafood inspired by Tuscan flavours. From tagliolini al granchio to authentic wood-fired pizzas to refreshing sorbets, I sample a little of everything. Later, I stop by Baraabaru, a restaurant inspired by the architecture of Kerala, serving Indian cuisine. I hesitantly place my order not knowing how a restaurant in Maldives would do justice to Indian flavours. But my concerns are quickly put to rest; the dishes are undoubtedly Indian, so much so that the fragrances manage to transport me back home.
At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, time stands still, a true blessing for a city girl like me. I spend hours watching the dance of the trees, drifting sand, and rise and fall of waves. While wandering around, I stumble upon a lacquer craft pop-up shop set up by Four Seaons to preserve dying Maldivian art forms. I marvel at the pieces made by the artisans of the Thulhaadhoo island; it is heartening to see a part of the local culture being promoted at the resort.
As the sun sets, I sit by the beach on an undholi—a traditional wooden swing—and watch the stars sneak up across the night sky.
Related: Best Beaches In Pondicherry For The Classic Sun, Sand, And Surf Experience
