Inspired by the word “wisdom” in Sanskrit, the Soneva Jani is the Maldives most exclusive resort. It is their goal to help inspire your senses and create a paradise where you can indulge in the ‘SLOW LIFE’, an acronym standing for Sustainable – Local – Organic – Wellness Learning – Inspiring – Fun – Experiences. And the Soneva Jani is an experience in itself. Whether you are soaking up the local culture, exploring the exotic marine life, or enjoying the culinary creations of Michelin-starred chefs, the Soneva Jani cultivates experiences that will last a lifetime.

Location

Why should I choose the Soneva Jani over other overwater villas during my stay in the Maldives?

The Soneva Jani is located on Medhufaru Island, part of an uninhabited chain of islands on the Noonu Atoll. The ultra-luxurious resort is bordered with pristine beaches, lush tropical jungles and surrounded by 3.5 miles of crystalline waters with 360° views of the Indian Ocean. These waters that are fifty shades of mesmerizing blue, make the resort a prime location for diving and snorkeling. Tropical climates in the Maldives average 30° C and sea temperatures at a comfortable 22°-28° C, it is the perfect destination for any traveler seeking beach, sun, and fun.

Key Facts

  • the scenic seaplane trip takes about 1 hour from Malé International Airport
  • five islands inhabit the lagoon, Medhufaru being the biggest, which is connected to the resort by an expansive jetty
  • Soneva Jani is one of the world’s lowest-density resorts in the world

What is special?

  • enjoy a breathtaking trip offering a bird’s eye view of the sugar-white islands peppering the Indian Ocean as you travel from the airport to the resort via seaplane
  • with Soneva Jani’s unique geographical location, astronomy lovers can see constellations in both the Northern and Southern hemisphere
  • wander through the Labyrinth, an intricate and detailed maze of hedges on Medhufaru Island, where you’ll also discover the extensive gardens that supply the fruits, vegetables, and herbs to the resort’s kitchen

What do the guests say?

  • well-traveled guests have never seen more vibrant shades of blue and stunning lagoons during their travels around the globe
  • guests were blown away by the architecture and views as soon as they stepped into the resort
  • “paradise on earth” has been used by travelers to describe Soneva Jani

Accommodation

What types of accommodations are available at the Soneva Jani? What can I expect staying in an overwater villa?

The villas of the Soneva Jani were created with peace and tranquility in mind. Choose from a range of villas consisting of one to four bedrooms; each featuring its own private pool and own stretch of lagoon. Keeping with its eco-friendly theme, you’ll find simple, yet chic, décor made from natural, recyclable and sustainable materials, with soft palettes mirroring that of its idyllic surroundings. If relaxation is what you are seeking, you will have plenty of places and spaces to do just that. From the overwater catamaran net overlooking the glistening ocean, to the sunken lounge area seemingly suspended in mid-air, your options are plentiful.

Key Facts

  • the Soneva Jani is comprised of 24 over-water villas and one beach villa
  • a “no news, no shoes” policy is implored to encourage a casual atmosphere for guests
  • from the moment you step into the resort, your personal butler, by the name of Mr. or Ms. “Friday” will be available to meet and anticipate your every need

What is special?

  • dive into warm crystal-clear waters right from your own private deck, or channel the inner kid in you and slide into the lagoon from the top floor of your villa
  • retract the roof of your villa, with a touch of a button, and enjoy a dreamy evening of counting constellations and stargazing from the comfort of your bed
  • escape into your own tranquil world as you sink into your deep soaking tub in the open-air bathroom and sip a smooth Sauvignon from your personal wine cellar collection, listening to gentle waves play the sweetest sounds

What do the guests say?

  • guests love that even at full capacity you hardly see other visitors, except in dining areas
  • guests find the inside of the villa to be just as impressive as the outside
  • personal touches, such as being able to choose your fragrance for your shampoo, lotion, and soap are the kind of experiences that leave guests singing high praises of the Soneva Jani

Pools & Spa

What is the best way to relax at the Soneva Jani? What type of amenities are available?

Drift away to an inner state of harmony at the Soneva Jani Spa. The spa aims to provide a healing space for you, by offering intuitive therapies that focus on problematic areas, reflexology, and energy healing – all catered specifically to your needs. From Swedish massages, to detoxifying body wraps, your treatment options are endless. After a day of basking by your private pool, spoil yourself with a Sodashi Sun Soothers treatment, that uses soothing compresses of lavender and geranium to rejuvenate and moisturize the skin. Using only natural sources from the earth and the sea, the Soneva Jani believes “what we put on our bodies is just as important as what we put in our bodies”.

Key Facts

  • the Soneva Jani pools use seawater and UV filtration to keep the environmental impact as low as possible
  • the spa is equipped with a yoga pavilion, steam and sauna rooms
  • the Spa Ritual products are all vegan, organic and do not support animal cruelty

What is special?

  • recover from a long travel journey with a rebalancing face and body treatment, Himalayan salt exfoliation and warm therapeutic compresses with the Sodashi Jetlag Recovery treatment
  • make it a family affair with one of the Lifestyle packages offering a fun family beach obstacle course and a family or couples treatment
  • mommys-to-be, make your ‘babymoon’ extra relaxing with a stress reducing, muscle tension relieving massage

What do the guests say?

  • guests rave the Soneva Spa is the definition of luxury and the perfect place to tune out
  • one of the favorite amenities among guests is hands down having an own private pools with their villa
  • spa goers really loved the attention to detail and intuitiveness of their therapist

Culinary

What are the dining options at the Soneva Jani? Which cuisines can I expect?

The Soneva Jani has a wide range of dining options available in the resort; as well as, on the surrounding islands. From “So Imaginative’s” experimental tasting room that will tantalize your taste buds, to “So Starstruck”, an out-of-this-world dining experience on the Observation deck, the Soneva Jani is the ultimate epicurean destination. Enjoy a front row show at the chef’s table at “So Engaged”, as the chef prepares a mystery menu for you and five guests. Wind down with sunset aperitifs or handcrafted cocktail as you relax on the overwater catamaran net at “The Gathering Bar”, enjoying the views of the glimmering ocean and sublime sunset.

Key Facts

  • complimentary chocolates, truffles and treats are prepared by in-house chocolatiers for guests indulgence
  • over 60 flavors of gourmet and limited edition ice creams are available at the So Cool creamery
  • in-villa dining options are available – choose from the select menu or create your own menu, skillfully prepared by the chefs

What is special?

  • swim, snorkel, or just simply relax on a private island while a gourmet pop-up dinner, with the fresh catch of the day, is being prepared on-site by a world-class chef
  • experience the unique full moon dining experience once a month, as you dine under the incandescent glow of the moon on the sandbar at Baraveli Beach
  • dine at the overwater observatory where the resident astronomer will help navigate the skies

What do the guests say?

  • guests enjoy fresh organic vegetables straight from the resort’s garden
  • travelers rave the food is fresh, flavorsome, and stunningly creative
  • you won’t be disappointed by the variety of dining options or the quality of food, according to guests

Activities

What type of activities can we expect during our stay at the Soneva Jani?

There are plenty of activities and experiences both on and off the resort for your pleasure. Whether you are being whisked away for a castaway picnic on a deserted island, watching playful dolphins swim alongside you on a private sunset dolphin cruise, or being guided on a celestial journey with the local astronomer, the list of things to do is boundless. Alternatively, the water activities are not to be missed! Discover the exotic marine life of the Maldives from your private stretch of lagoon or on a deep dive with the Soleni Dive Center.

Key Facts

  • a range of complimentary non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, kitesurfing and windsurfing is available to guests
  • The Den, Soneva Jani’s children’s facility, offers a variety of activities catered to young Soneva guests
  • bicycles and/or tricycles are provided to all guests to help navigate the expansive resort

What is special?

  • enjoy a movie under a blanket of stars at the al fresco, overwater cinema, where you’ll be provided high quality bluetooth earphones and can indulge in tasty snacks, ice cream and beverages and have even the option to select from the chef’s menu
  • catch some waves with the 100% eco-friendly surf equipment, made from recycled waste, as part of Soneva Jani’s fully sustainable surfing program, the first of its kind in the world
  • get first-hand insight to local Maldivian culture and way of life with a speedboat adventure to Magoodhoo Island

What do the guests say?

  • guests loved the enthusiasm of their guides when on excursions
  • the outdoor dinner and a movie is a great way to relax and unwind and is highly recommended by guests
  • guests love the variety of activities available for every type of traveler; whether a family holiday or romantic getaway

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