Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru
Forty-four acres in Baa Atoll, with a marine research centre that runs on the same island.
Landaa Giraavaru occupies a large island in Baa Atoll, inside the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, reached by seaplane from Malé. The island runs to about forty-four acres — big enough for jungle paths, a lagoon on one side and an ocean beach on the other. Hanifaru Bay, the manta aggregation that gives Baa its status, is within the resort's reach in season.
Around 103 villas and bungalows hold the property. The Marine Discovery Centre on the island runs coral propagation and one of the longest-running manta research programmes in the country, in partnership with the Manta Trust, and guests take part rather than watch. There is also a substantial Ayurvedic centre, a dive operation and a children's programme.
Manta research on the property. The Manta Trust partnership here has produced years of published identification data, and the resort's boats are the platform for it.
Room to be several things. Forty-four acres allows a wellness centre, a research station, a family programme and quiet beaches to coexist without colliding.
Who it is not for
Landaa Giraavaru is wrong for guests wanting a small island — this is a large resort and it takes a bicycle to cross. It is wrong for travellers seeking adults-only calm, since families are central. And it is wrong for those wanting minimal design, which is not the register this property plays in. Those wanting small in Baa should look at The Nautilus or Soneva Secret.
Sources
- fourseasons.com — around 103 villas and bungalows, Landaa Giraavaru, Marine Discovery Centre
- Manta Trust — research partnership on manta identification in Baa Atoll
- Villa count and island area unverified. Confirm before publication.
Booking
Private Island Resorts arranges each stay on request, quoting the rates available for the island and dates. No benefit should be assumed unless it is confirmed in writing for the individual reservation.
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