When was the last time you stopped what you were doing and looked up at the stars? If it’s been so long that you can’t remember, then it may be time to check out of your distracted daily life and check in to the Anantara Kihavah in the Maldives.
The incredible five-star resort, located on a tropical island paradise in the Indian Ocean, has just unveiled a sensational new overwater observatory. Unlike many places in the UK, where light pollution and smog can make it hard to see much above your head, book a stay here and you will be able to explore the dreamy night sky with crystal clear views.
Named SKY, the Maldives’ only overwater observatory also features a luxury cocktail bar (The Sky Bar), a resident storytelling Sky Guru, as well the most powerful telescope in the Indian Ocean.
The Sky Bar is a panorama lounge perched over the lagoon. With 360-degree views, this is THE place to take in spectacular Indian Ocean sunsets. A contemporary yet warm design, with raw timber and soft lighting throughout, The Sky Bar specialises in island signatures such as Kihavah Island Tea, an Indian Ocean white rum and arak with lychee, peach, lemon and a dash of Earl Grey Tea. There is also a DJ who plays mellow tunes as the light fades.
On top of the roof deck of the Sky Bar, surrounded by nothing but open skies and the ocean waves below, sits the custom-built ash-dome observatory. It houses a research-grade 16” Meade LX200 telescope mounted on a super-giant field tripod. That’s powerful enough to see the night’s sky like you’ve never seen it before.
While you sip Champagne and lay back on a daybed with the sky above, the resort’s resident astronomer Ali Shameem can then help you to recognise various star and planets.
Due to the Maldives’ location just above the equator, both hemisphere’s stars are visible from Anantara Kihavah. Coupled with minimal light pollution and open skies, you’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience should you stay here.
Long renowned as the perfect destination to explore the mysterious world under the sea, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas consists of 80 spacious private pool villas. These picture-perfect villas are either poised over the water with sweeping ocean views or nestled along a pristine stretch of private beach.
