Our Stay at the Heritance Aarah Maldives

Varsha Pherwani on 14 December 2024
The Maldives has long been synonymous with luxury, serenity, and natural beauty, and Heritance Aarah takes this to another level. For our annual year-end trip, my husband, our 11-year-old son, and I set off on a journey to this premium all-inclusive resort nestled in the pristine Raa Atoll. From the moment we arrived, it was clear we were in for an unforgettable getaway.

A Warm Welcome in Style

Our experience began at the Heritance seaplane lounge in Malé, where we relaxed while awaiting our 40-minute seaplane ride to the resort. The lounge offered a glimpse of the impeccable hospitality that awaited us. Upon arrival at Heritance Aarah, we were warmly greeted and quickly escorted to our Ocean Villa, which would be our home for the next three days.

Living the Dream in an Ocean Villa

Perched above a shimmering lagoon and overlooking an infinite horizon, our Ocean Villa was a dream come true. The villa’s private outdoor deck offered phenomenal views of the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, especially during sunset. Inside, the glass-bottom floor at the end of the bed captivated our son, who spent hours peering through it, hoping to catch glimpses of marine life drifting below. It was a magical touch that made our stay even more special.

Exploring the Resort’s Offerings

Heritance Aarah is a haven of activities and indulgence, and three days simply weren’t enough to experience it all. One of the resort’s highlights is the IASO Spa, which offers an extensive range of treatments and wellness programs. I thoroughly enjoyed a complimentary 30-minute wellness consultation and marveled at the spa’s tranquil indoor and outdoor treatment rooms overlooking the ocean.

Culinary Adventures

Dining at Heritance Aarah is an experience in itself. At Ambula Overwater Restaurant, we were treated to a Maldivian and Sri Lankan gastronomical journey through a five-course menu. My husband and I savored every bite, while our son’s favorite culinary moment was the Teppanyaki grill experience at Hathaa Overwater Restaurant, where Japanese and Asian flavors took center stage.

Activities for All Ages

The resort offers an impressive array of activities and workshops. We enjoyed a rum connoisseur session and tried our hand at palm leaf art. One of the most memorable experiences was the Maldivian Village experience, which celebrates the rich culture and heritage of the island nation—a unique offering that sets Heritance Aarah apart.

For adventure seekers, the snorkeling opportunities were unparalleled. Our son was thrilled to spot manta rays, turtles, and even black-tipped sharks. Back on land, he delighted in the resort’s Padel court and teens’ club, which featured the latest gadgets and games to keep him entertained.

A Longer Stay is a Must

If you’re considering a stay at Heritance Aarah, my advice is simple: book a longer stay. Three days were wonderful but far too short to fully immerse ourselves in all the resort has to offer. A minimum of five to seven nights would allow you to truly experience this slice of paradise.

Final Thoughts

Our stay at Heritance Aarah was nothing short of magical. From the luxurious Ocean Villa to the world-class dining and unforgettable activities, every moment was a testament to the resort’s commitment to excellence. It’s the perfect destination for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape to a tropical paradise. We left with our hearts full and memories that will last a lifetime.