Aerial view of Joali Maldives' water villas -- Sun Photo/ Fayaz Moosa

Getting off at the rather peculiarly designed arrival jetty on Muravandhoo Island but rather surprised at the elegantly embellished lounge. Only to be told later that the distinctive architecture of the jetty's roof is art.

“How?!” one may question.

It appears as a large bird when viewed from the water villas that stretch so far out into the lagoon, and as a large manta ray when viewed from the island. A matter of perspective.

That is Joali Maldives: a perfect fusion of artistry and luxury, and local ingredients to finish off with the Maldivian touch.

 

Manta Ray Treehouse at Joali Maldives --- Sun Photo/ Fayaz Moosa

The 24-acre resort’s design and architecture is a masterpiece by renowned international architecture and design studios—natural, subtle and smooth transitions that blend with the island’s spirit and culture. The resort was built in a way that preserved over 1,000 trees during the construction process.

The Art

Joali Maldives is one of the first immersive art resorts in the Maldives—artistic pieces are located at different sites of the island, including the work of celebrated artists and designers like Misha Khan, Nacho Carbonell, Porky Hefer, Studio Glithero, Zemer Peled, Chris Wolston, Doug Johnston and many more. The exclusive pieces of Joali’s art collection are marked on the art map of the island.

The artistic eye-pleasers exist in the form of manta-ray tree houses; exquisite benches, stools and a heron-shaped swing; and many other sculptures.

Villas

At Joali, you get a private infinity pool with every villa. Accommodations include 73 private beach villas, water villas and residences ranging from one to four bedrooms. The villas are designed to take guests on a sensory journey; with service from your “Jadugar” butler, artisanal amenities, in-villa libraries, handpicked art and thoughtful designs.

A Villa at Joali Maldives Muravandhoo -- Sun Photo/ Fayaz Moosa

Its even better at the Ocean Residences.

Food and wellness at Joali

Guests have dining options that provide fusion cuisine from several corners of the globe. There is the Saoke restaurant—the first restaurant in the Maldives designed by renowned Japanese restaurant architect Noriyoshi Muramatsu.

Vandhoo restaurant features authentic Asian and Levant-inspired dishes; and cravings for Italian cuisine can be satisfied at Bellinis.

Her Kitchen at Joali Maldives Muravandhoo -- Photo/ Joali Maldives

Moreover, you can enjoy over 60 flavors of ice cream, and much loved desserts such as handmade cupcakes and macarons from the ice cream store at Joali. Or enjoy cocktails and light bites at Mura Bar.

Later during the day, relax off at the Joali Spa by Espa—it is a haven of wellbeing inspired by the resort’s tropical surroundings.

Joie de Vivre – the Joy of Living

The philosophy of this property is Joie de Vivre. Guests are encouraged to enjoy life and feel the joy of living at Joali. A lot of experiences await you—from snorkeling with mantas, wakeboarding, chartered yachts or Dhoni excursings, etc.

 

Aerial view of Joali Maldives' water villas -- Sun Photo/ Fayaz Moosa

Joali also has unique places like the Manta Ray Treehouse in which you can chill, relax or have a meal with your companions. There is a flower garden that features a majestic showcase of local plants and flowers. You can also book a custom itinerary to Joali’s private sandbar for snorkeling, stargazing or a private luxury camping experience—choices are endless, and they exist to fulfill your joy of living.