This family-friendly resort in the Maldives offers an exceptional level of luxury
Words Dani Wilson
An established family resort in the beautiful Maldives, Shangri-la’s Villingili property is located on the southernmost island of Gan – in an amazing island setting.
Arriving at the resort was like falling into paradise: we were welcomed by smiling staff, beautiful flower arrangements, cold towels and cool fresh coconuts. We checked in to our Deluxe Pool Villa from the comfort of our room which was a relaxing way to begin.
THE RESORT
The Villingili Resort is one of the biggest in the Maldives. It’s about 3km long, so there is plenty to explore on foot, in a buggy or on bicycles, which we absolutely loved. The resort feels eco-friendly, as it retains a lot of its original vegetation and wildlife.
There are three natural lagoons and stunning jungle to explore full of frogs, lizards, bugs, birds and flying foxes, which made the island completely fascinating for children.
At the centre of the resort, The Village is the hub of everything, and has the shop, dive centre, eco centre, health club, medical centre, tennis courts, kids club, the reception and the M lounge, which we adored for sundowners. The main restaurant Javvu is here, where breakfast is served by the sea; also nearby are the the swimming pool and the water sports centre.
The whole place feels big enough to cater for everyone without being crowded; but you can meet other guests if you are looking to socialise or if the little ones want to make friends. Kid’s activities vary from tennis to coral planting, while the kids club offers enormous choice for little ones.
We also enjoyed exploring on bicycles – the helpful staff even equipped my husband’s bike with a child seat. As a family resort, Shangri- La offers a plan which provides children under 12 years old free accommodation staying in the same room with their parents, up to a maximum of two children per room; and that’s inclusive of the food, which was excellent throughout our stay.
We will never forget this special family holiday- we all loved it and we are all dying to go back as soon as we can.
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