Villingili Island | South Ari Atoll

Villingili Island is a beautiful, relatively lesser-known island located in the Maldives, specifically in the Addu Atoll, which is the southernmost atoll of the Maldives archipelago. Unlike the more famous islands in the central and northern parts of the Maldives, Villingili offers a more tranquil and secluded experience, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway in the Indian Ocean.

Geography and Location

• Location: Villingili Island is located in Addu Atoll, which is situated in the southern part of the Maldives, around 540 kilometers from the capital city, Malé. The island is easily accessible via a domestic flight from Malé to Gan International Airport in Addu Atoll, followed by a short boat ride to Villingili.
• Size: Villingili is relatively large compared to many other Maldivian islands. The island is about 2.5 kilometers in length, which allows for a relatively spacious environment with areas for beaches, lush vegetation, and water-based activities.

Accommodation and Resorts

• Luxury Resorts: Villingili Island is home to some luxury resorts, most notably the Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa (which was formerly a popular resort on the island). The resort is known for its high-end service, luxurious villas, and the overall exclusivity of the island, offering an intimate escape in an unspoiled natural setting.
  • Villas and Overwater Bungalows: The resort features spacious villas, some of which are overwater bungalows, providing stunning views of the turquoise lagoons and surrounding sea. The villas are well-equipped with modern amenities, private pools, and open-air living spaces, allowing guests to enjoy the natural surroundings in comfort and privacy.
• Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Tourism: The island and its resorts focus on sustainable tourism, making efforts to preserve the local ecosystem while providing high-quality service to visitors. This includes eco-friendly practices, water conservation, and waste management to ensure that tourism does not harm the delicate marine and island environment.

Beaches and Natural Beauty

• Pristine Beaches: Villingili Island is known for its pristine, unspoiled beaches. The island features white sandy beaches that are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the Maldives. The beaches are typically quiet and not as crowded as the larger resort islands, offering a more serene and private experience.
• Lush Vegetation and Greenery: The island is also home to lush tropical vegetation, including coconut palms, dense greenery, and small tropical trees. The combination of sandy beaches and lush greenery creates an idyllic setting, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the island.
• Clear Waters and Lagoon: The waters around Villingili are crystal-clear, ideal for snorkeling, diving, and swimming. The island has its own lagoon, where visitors can enjoy water sports or simply swim in the calm, warm water. The lagoon is protected by a reef, making it safe and perfect for water activities.

Activities and Attractions

• Snorkeling and Diving: The waters surrounding Villingili Island are rich in marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving. The coral reefs around the island are home to a variety of fish, sea turtles, and other marine species. Visitors can explore these vibrant underwater ecosystems either directly from the shore or via boat trips to nearby dive sites.
  • Dive Sites: The Addu Atoll is known for its impressive dive sites, including the famous Manta Point and Sharks’ Reef, which are easily accessible from Villingili. Scuba divers can explore these underwater wonderlands, encountering large schools of fish, manta rays, and even whale sharks.
• Water Sports: The island offers a variety of water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. These activities allow visitors to enjoy the clear waters and lagoons while being active and adventurous.
• Bicycle and Nature Trails: Villingili Island offers bike rentals for guests, allowing them to explore the island at their own pace. The island’s lush landscape, combined with its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, makes it a wonderful place to take leisurely bike rides or walks.
• Golf: One unique feature of Villingili Island is the presence of a 9-hole golf course, known as the Villingili Golf Course, which is the only one in the southern part of the Maldives. The golf course is located along the beach and offers a serene setting for golf enthusiasts.
• Spa and Wellness: Many of the luxury resorts on Villingili offer wellness services, including spas, yoga sessions, and holistic treatments. Guests can enjoy massages, facials, and other relaxation therapies while surrounded by the island’s tranquil atmosphere.

Local Culture and Experience

• Addu Atoll Culture: Although Villingili Island is primarily a luxury resort destination, it is located in the culturally rich Addu Atoll, where the culture of the local Maldivian communities can be explored. Visitors can interact with locals, visit nearby inhabited islands, and get a taste of the traditional way of life in this part of the Maldives.
  • Local Villages: The nearby local islands offer a glimpse into the daily life of Maldivian communities, with opportunities to learn about local crafts, fishing practices, and the traditional Maldivian way of life.
• Historical Significance: The Addu Atoll is known for its historical significance, particularly during the British colonial period. Some local islands in the area have historical sites, including remnants of colonial buildings and military structures, offering a unique opportunity for cultural exploration.

Dining and Culinary Experience

• Local and International Cuisine: Resorts on Villingili Island provide a wide variety of dining options, ranging from local Maldivian seafood dishes to international cuisine. The food is typically fresh and prepared with locally sourced ingredients, including fish, seafood, tropical fruits, and vegetables.
  • Seafood: As is typical in the Maldives, fresh seafood plays a central role in the cuisine, with dishes such as grilled tuna, lobster, and fish curries being common.
  • Fine Dining: Luxury resorts also offer fine dining experiences, with international chefs serving gourmet meals in stunning settings. Many of the restaurants have outdoor terraces overlooking the ocean or lagoon, allowing guests to dine under the stars with beautiful views.

Wellness and Spa

• Spa Facilities: Resorts on Villingili Island typically feature high-end spa services, with luxurious treatments designed to rejuvenate guests. Spa offerings include massages, facials, body treatments, and wellness therapies inspired by both traditional Maldivian and global techniques.
• Yoga and Meditation: Some resorts offer wellness programs that include yoga and meditation sessions. These are designed to help guests relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy the calm atmosphere of the island.

Accessibility

• Transfers: The island is easily accessible via a domestic flight from Malé to Gan International Airport, which is located on a nearby island in the Addu Atoll. From Gan, it is a short boat ride to Villingili Island. The Maldives’ international airport, Velana International Airport in Malé, connects to Gan through regular domestic flights.

Summary

Villingili Island offers a serene and luxurious experience in the Maldives, with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. The island is home to some high-end resorts, including Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, making it a popular destination for those seeking privacy, tranquility, and luxury. With its range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, water sports, and a unique 9-hole golf course, Villingili Island is an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking for relaxation. The island’s lush landscape and quiet atmosphere make it a perfect place to unwind, while its proximity to the culturally rich Addu Atoll offers a chance to explore the local culture and history of the Maldives.