Located in the North Ari Atoll in the Maldives, Cinnamon Ellaidhoo is a mid-range 4* resort that is either a 25-minute seaplane transfer or a 1-hour 30-minute speed boat ride away from the Malé International airport.
The Beach Bungalows are standalone beachfront rooms with easy access to a private beach with views of the sea. Bathrooms are semi-open with an indoor shower and this category is mainly popular with couples or honeymooners. For more budget stays with families, the Superior Rooms with an ocean view have a contemporary design and extended living area to fit extra beds to accommodate children or additional guests. With 112 rooms across 4 categories, the highest category is the Water Bungalows, which are duplex overwater units that are furnished comfortably in pastel colours & feature a glass-bottom floor, and outdoor bathrooms with corner bathtubs. Rooms do not have direct access to the surrounding lagoon, but there are small terraces to lounge and sunbathe.
Ellaidhoo operates as an all-inclusive resort with two restaurants that serve buffet-style multi-cuisine. The main restaurant Madi, overlooks the ocean, while the Malamathi restaurant is exclusively available only for the Water Bungalow guests. There are three bars for drinks, cocktails, and mocktails such as the Iruohsenee Bar, Malamathi Poolside Bar, and EYZ Bar - open only for special events. Entertainment including a DJ, live band music, and karaoke is hosted nightly.
For guests wishing to explore during the day, there are water sports such as diving, snorkelling, canoeing, and pedalo. With its unique island shape, Ellaidhoo has 50 dive sites that are sought after by divers. Outdoor sports include beach volleyball, badminton, and tennis while indoor sports such as billiards, squash, foosball tables, and a gym. For families with children, there is also a Kids’ play area. The Chavana Spa offers a range of Balinese spa treatments and facials for a bit of pampering.
The Travel Gallery Take – For those guests looking for good value for money, the all-inclusive 4* property Ellaidhoo is a good choice. The transfer option by speedboat, although quite long helps to keep the cost down.