Niyama
In the south western atoll of Dhaalu, 45 minutes via sea plane from Malé International Airport, Niyama Maldives Resort is spread over two islands, Chill and Play. Each is a tropical haven with lush vegetation, crystal clear waters and squeaky white sand. Children of all ages are welcome.
Accommodation & Facilities
Accommodation at Niyama comprises a range of shoreline suites and over-water pavilions. Whatever you choose you will be guaranteed a luxurious stay in spacious and beautifully designed surroundings. Most rooms come with a private pool and all feature indoor and outdoor showers and a private butler. Best family accommodation options are the family beach suites and the two and three bedroom beach pavilions. All of these come with a private plunge pool. The Crescent, five ultra chic over-water villas all with private pools grouped together at the far end of Chill Island, would accommodate a large family group of up to 14 adults and eight children.
The six restaurants vary in style as much as the accommodation, with Nest set six metres into the tree canopy, Subsix six metres below the sea’s surface and plenty more besides. The Explorers Kids Club caters for children from the age of one to 12 years.
Eating & Sleeping
Children can have separate mealtimes and there are different children’s menus in four of the restaurants (Tribal, Edge, Nest, 7 BLU) offering family favourites such as chicken goujons, pasta, grilled fish, rice, salads, smoothies and ice cream. There is also an infant menu for babies. In addition there is an in-room dining menu or for a special experience, private family BBQs can be arranged in magical settings. Babysitting is available and charged at approximately US$20 per hour capped at five hours. That said children from 3 – 12 years can take advantage of the Kids Club from 9am – 6pm in which case babysitting is complimentary.
Activities
Among the myriad of water activities available here is scuba diving, deep sea fishing, kayaking, dolphin cruises, glass bottom boat trips, snorkelling, wakeboarding, kitesurfing and windsurfing. The resident marine biologists run a coral regeneration programme and welcome guest participation. Away from the beach there’s a spa, a fitness centre, a games room and a swimming pool. Guided trips to visit local villages and local 12th century mosque can also be arranged.
Specifically for children …
The kids club caters for children from 1 – 12 years with daily themed age appropriate activities from 9am – 6pm. These include baking, treasure hunts, games, arts & crafts and dressing up. The Bubblemaker diving course is offered for eight and nine year olds, plus Discover Scuba Diving, Junior Scuba Diver and Junior Open Water Diver courses for children aged ten and above. For all snorkelling trips a basic level of swimming ability is required. Age appropriate kit is available.
