DEPARTING London in a whirlwind, it is not long before I am boarding a seaplane exchanging rainy autumnal weather for indescribably clear waters. And here I am, cruising over the North Malé Atoll, a short flight away from Patina Maldives, located on the largest of the Fari Islands.
Though Patina Maldives offer both luxury speedboat and seaplane charter to the resort – around 45 minutes by boat and 15 minutes by plane – my eagerness forced me to go with the latter. Pretty soon, I’ve arrived on the dock meeting the team, including my efficient “essentialist” Amnee, who at just a text message away helps to ensure my week is as perfect as anticipated.
Infinity Pool
After a short buggy ride, I am at the door of my overwater villa, whose design felt less like a hotel and more like a homecoming. Designed by Marcio Kogan, the villas reject the crisp whiteness of many resorts, and instead bring a chic sense of homeliness as if you have strolled into your most stylish friend’s apartment, fusing earthy tones and steely greys that enhance the blueness of the oceanic expanse ahead even further.
Before the sunset, Amnee gives me a whistle-stop tour of the grounds. As we pass the lush groves of palm trees and abundant reefs surrounding the villas, she informs me of the resort’s commitment to sustainable practice, which makes my stay all the more satisfying.
Two-Bedroom Sunset Beach Pool Villa
Since its opening in 2021, the resort has been incredibly indebted to sustainable innovation and is continually expanding its beneficial environmental conservation initiatives. Whether it be an in-island nature reserve lovingly nicknamed “Bird Island,” or recycling energy from the air conditioning vents to heat the showers, every facet of the resort has a foundation in meticulous research.
In addition to an unwavering environmental ethos, Patina also boasts an impressive curation of arts and culture, from a library to a series of bespoke sculptures and installations, including an exclusive Skyspace designed by James Turrell.
Two-Bedroom Sunset Beach Pool Villa
With a seemingly endless array of amenities and stunning natural surroundings, there’s little reason to leave but, if in need of a change of scenery, day trips can be booked with the team. One day, I’m enjoying a champagne lunch on a sandbank in the middle of the ocean, the next, I’m exploring the capital island of Malé, allowing myself to become immersed in the rich and authentic culture of Maldivian life.
Admittedly, I had heard the rumours that as beautiful as they may be, Maldivian resorts are not necessarily foodie hotspots, but Patina absolutely excelled in its culinary offering.
Two-Bedroom Sunset Beach Pool Villa
Under the direction of John Bakker, Japanese cuisine at Wok Society, raw vegan at Roots, Turkish at Helios and more champion sustainably caught seafood and locally grown vegetables, including produce grown in a new in- house venture named the “Perpetual Garden”.
Two-Bedroom Sunset Water Pool Villa
After leaving the island, it became clear that Patina Maldives did not rely on simply being a luxury vacation or social media hotspot, but rather a holistic experience that advocated education, culture and meticulous practice, tiptoeing perfectly between traditional and experimental cuisine. Since my departure I have only been dreaming of my return.
by Ben Sanderson
Rates at Patina Maldives, Fari Islands start from $2,376 (approx £1,975) per night based on two adults sharing a One-Bedroom Beach Pool Villa with Bed & Breakfast, including services and taxes.
Visit patinahotels.com/maldives-fari-islands, email reservations. maldives@patinahotels.com or tel. +960 4000 555.
Images courtesy of Georg Roske