Cheval Blanc Randheli: LVMH’s Private Luxury Escape in the Maldives

The resort’s hospitality begins from the moment we are met at the arrival gate by our charming Ambassadeur, who leads us to our private lounge—which feels like a five-star hotel in and of itself—to freshen up. We then board the Cheval Blanc seaplane for a 45-minute ride to the Maison, enjoying aerial views of the splendour of the Indian Ocean along the way. The waters are impossibly blue and clear, revealing tropical fish, corals, and even a blacktip reef shark. To fully appreciate the stunning surroundings, the resort was designed by Jean‑Michel Gathy—a living legend in hotel design—with architecture crafted in harmony with the Maldives’ surroundings and to showcase the breathtaking turquoise waters.

Here, French art de vivre is translated to a tropical setting. There are 46 villas, each designed as a private residence with 7 m‑high ceilings, lavish interiors using traditional island materials such as rattan and mother‑of‑pearl, and a 12.5 m infinity‑edge pool. The resort’s signature Pop Yellow, a custom shade, appears on art pieces, amenities, and even staff uniforms to echo the radiance of the Maldivian sun. These are accompanied by a bespoke fragrance of rose and cardamom, crafted by François Demachy, the former Dior House Perfumer, which evokes the serenity of an island escape. Although the resort first opened its doors in November 2013, it appears like it opened yesterday, as the Maison closes for a full month every year for upkeep.

There are 360 Ambassadeurs to cater to the villas, all of whom undergo international butler training under LVMH to give meticulous, refined attention to every guest, with each treated like royalty. It’s evident from the start, as when we’re assisted off the seaplane by an Ambassadeur, he offers his arm rather than his hand—a subtle, thoughtful gesture. They also pay attention to what many would overlook, writing goodnight messages in the sand at the entrance of villas, asking guests if they are comfortable with the temperature, and cheerfully greeting “Bonjour” wherever you go.

Island Chic

Our lodgings for our stay are the One‑Bedroom Garden Water Villa, thoughtfully appointed with a lavish spread of complimentary island comforts—from Leonor Greyl toiletries and lip balms to espadrilles for sun‑drenched strolls. A questionnaire completed prior to arrival makes provisions for highly personalised touches—including the option of two separate duvets, a solution to the age‑old dilemma of the blanket tug‑of‑war. A sprawling private terrace with a sea ladder also allows us direct access to the impossibly turquoise ocean. Our dedicated majordome, Sam, is endlessly obliging, helping us with all of our requests, from unpacking suitcases to preparing snorkelling gear.

Spa Sanctuary

After soaking up the elegance of the interiors and the majestic scenery, it’s time to visit the Spa Island, where guests are transported using a dhoni, a traditional Maldivian handcrafted wooden vessel. The spa uses products from Guerlain—also under the LVMH umbrella—as well as offering a make‑up and skincare counter to use in your own treatment room with panoramic views. Here, one can spend the whole day indulging in a wide range of treatments, including two specially created for the resort: the Sun Ritual and the After Diving Experience, followed by fitness and meditation activities led by the island’s yoga master.

At the spa, experience an exceptional traditional oriental hammam, influenced by the heritage of thermal baths and Moroccan beauty rituals, designed to melt away any lingering stress from before one arrives on the island. For those who want to take special care of their crowning glories, opt for the Hair Spa by Leonor Greyl, the renowned Parisian hair brand acclaimed for its pioneering botanical‑based formulas. Although every treatment suite is an exquisite sanctuary, there is also the option to elevate your spa experience further with someone special at the two‑storey Orchidée Villa. When hunger arises, retreat to the Spa Bar, with ocean views perfect for idling the day away and, if you’re lucky, spotting dolphins in the distance (as we did). The menu features refreshing fruit juices and dishes tailored for detoxification, such as Reef Lobster Spring Rolls with Asian Eggplant Caviar.

Endless Possibilities

Many discerning guests spend a month or more at the Maison, and it’s easy to understand why. The countless experiences on offer include guided snorkelling excursions to witness mesmerising bioluminescence, riding the Maldives’ only surf simulator, or playing tennis on lagoon‑front courts built to US Open standards. The water sports centre is stocked with Seabobs and hoverboards, while young guests are captivated by the expansive children’s club with two water slides.

LVMH’s culinary pedigree extends to the resort’s eight restaurants and bars, each situated in awe‑inspiring settings, such as The White, where the breakfast menu runs to 20 pages. The highlight is Le 1947, named after the celebrated vintage of Château Cheval Blanc, an exquisite degustation experience where courses arrive with ballet‑like steps beneath crystal chandeliers.

Although the resort is operating at 95 per cent capacity, the vast grounds always feel serene, and we don’t even cross paths with other guests who travelled with us on the same seaplane. A stay at Cheval Blanc Randheli truly takes you away from reality, where you feel as if the entire universe belongs to you.

As we bid farewell to our Ambassadeur, who looked after us right up to our boarding gate, the question wasn’t if we’d ever return, but when.