Lovett & Co Appointed to Represent Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru
Lovett & Co, the luxury communications travel and lifestyle consultancy, has
been appointed to handle UK and US PR and Communications for Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and
Dhawa Ihuru, two iconic sister resorts in the Maldives’ North Malé Atoll.
Just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, two neighbouring island resorts are redefining what it means to experience the Maldives: Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru. Lovett&Co plays a crucial role in promoting these stunning destinations.
Part of the globally respected Banyan Group, these sister islands offer distinct yet complementary escapes, each reflecting a different mood of Maldivian hospitality. Together they provide travellers with the rare opportunity to enjoy two unique resort experiences during a single stay, connected by a short boat ride and a shared commitment to sustainability, wellness and exceptional marine environments.
Barefoot Elegance at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru
For travellers seeking privacy, serenity and refined luxury, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru delivers an experience that feels both intimate and deeply connected to its surroundings. The island is home to just 48 villas, each designed as a private sanctuary with its own pool and generous outdoor space. Traditional Maldivian architecture blends effortlessly with contemporary design, creating interiors that feel warm, organic and unmistakably tied to the island environment.
Thatched roofs, handcrafted tropical woods and woven natural materials create an atmosphere of understated elegance. Large open spaces and lush greenery allow guests to move seamlessly between indoor comfort and the island’s natural beauty. Here, luxury is expressed not through extravagance but through thoughtful design, privacy and a sense of place.
Dining has also taken centre stage following a recent refresh of the island’s culinary offerings. Guests can savour the rich flavours of Thailand at Saffron, the resort’s signature restaurant, or enjoy relaxed grill dishes and themed buffets at the newly introduced Sangu Garden. Meanwhile, Madi Hiyaa presents a striking overwater Japanese dining concept, offering exquisite cuisine accompanied by panoramic views across the lagoon. The Naiboli Bar provides the perfect setting for sunset cocktails, where gentle ocean breezes and golden skies create unforgettable evenings.
The resort recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Banyan Tree brand with a series of enhancements, including refreshed villas, new dining venues and expanded guest experiences. Yet perhaps the most meaningful addition is the enlarged Marine Lab—an initiative that reflects the resort’s long-standing dedication to marine conservation.
Established in 2004 as the Maldives’ first resort-based marine conservation facility, the Marine Lab has played a pioneering role in protecting the region’s fragile ecosystems. Today, guests can participate in coral planting programmes, guided snorkelling tours, reef clean-ups and interactive workshops that explore the biodiversity of the surrounding waters. These hands-on experiences allow travellers to engage directly with conservation efforts while discovering the extraordinary underwater world that defines the Maldives.
Wellbeing is another cornerstone of the Vabbinfaru experience. At Banyan Tree Spa & Wellbeing, treatments draw upon centuries of Asian healing traditions while embracing the natural elements of the island itself—its ocean breezes, swaying palms and nourishing botanical ingredients. Therapists undergo more than 600 hours of specialised training at the Banyan Tree Spa Academy, ensuring each treatment combines technical expertise with deeply restorative rituals.
Dhawa Ihuru: A Vibrant Island Retreat
Just a short boat ride away lies Dhawa Ihuru, the more playful and energetic counterpart to Vabbinfaru’s tranquil luxury. With 45 contemporary beachfront villas, this island offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere ideal for families, couples and travellers seeking a lively yet laid-back escape.
Each villa sits just steps from the beach, allowing guests to wake up to sweeping ocean views and the gentle rhythm of the waves. The design embraces modern tropical style—clean lines, bright interiors and open spaces that invite the outdoors in.
Dining on the island centres around Riveli Restaurant, a beachfront venue where international flavours meet fresh local ingredients. Nearby, Velaavani Bar provides a relaxed setting for sunset drinks and casual bites. Guests can also take advantage of the unique twin-island “dine-around” concept, allowing them to explore the restaurants at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru during their stay.
What truly sets Dhawa Ihuru apart, however, is its remarkable house reef—often ranked among the best in the Maldives. Just metres from the shore, snorkellers can glide above vibrant coral gardens alive with reef fish, sea turtles and a dazzling array of marine species. For divers, the nearby Rannamaari Shipwreck offers a thrilling underwater adventure, where marine life has transformed the wreck into a thriving artificial reef.
The island’s PADI 5-Star Gold Dive Centre caters to both beginners and experienced divers, while a variety of watersports—from kayaking and catamaran sailing to guided reef excursions—ensures endless opportunities to explore the surrounding lagoon.
Families are particularly well catered for, with a dedicated kids’ club and an all-inclusive offering that makes island living refreshingly carefree.
Two Islands, One Seamless Experience
What makes Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru truly special is the ability to experience both islands as part of a single journey. Guests staying at either resort are free to explore both properties, dine at multiple restaurants and enjoy the diverse facilities across the twin islands.
It is a rare concept in the Maldives—one that allows travellers to move effortlessly between refined luxury and relaxed island energy without ever leaving paradise.
For many visitors, this combination represents the perfect balance: quiet moments of wellness and indulgence at Vabbinfaru paired with the vibrant marine adventures and family-friendly spirit of Dhawa Ihuru.
Sustainable Luxury in the Maldives
Underlying every experience across both islands is Banyan Group’s guiding philosophy: responsible luxury. The company has long championed sustainable tourism, ensuring that environmental stewardship and community engagement remain central to its operations.
From coral restoration programmes and marine education to eco-conscious resort practices, the group’s commitment is reflected in every aspect of the guest experience. The goal is not simply to protect the natural environment but to create travel experiences that actively contribute to its preservation.
In an era when travellers increasingly seek meaningful journeys, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru stand out as destinations where luxury, nature and purpose coexist beautifully.
Nightly rates at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru start from $1,000–$1,500 (£749–£1,124*), per villa per night. For more information or to book, visit www.banyantree.com/maldives/vabbinfaru
Nightly rates at Dhawa Ihuru start from $900–$1,200 (£674–£899*), per villa per night on an all-inclusive basis. For more information or to book, visit www.dhawaihuru.com
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