18 fun facts we bet you didn't know about The Muraka at Conrad Maldives

1. The Muraka wasn’t built in the Maldives

That’s right, this 600-tonne villa was built in Singapore before it was transferred in three parts to the Maldives via ship. 

2. Sleek factor is off the chart

As you’d expect, everything inside this state-of-the-art villa is of the highest quality, we’re talking the best of the best. So expect plenty of marble…

3. It’s the world’s first underwater villa

The Muraka holds the crown for being the world’s first underwater villa, sitting five metres below sea level. And if you’re a fan of scuba diving, you’ll feel right at home in the residence’s spectacular bedroom…

Discover how much it costs to stay at The Muraka at Conrad Maldives.

Family Undersea Room at The Muraka

4. The master bedroom is otherworldly

Have you always wanted to get up close and personal with exotic marine life? When you stay at The Muraka at Conrad Maldives you can – and you won’t have to don a wetsuit for the pleasure.

The residence’s exclusive master bedroom sits five metres (16.4 feet) below the waves, complete with curved 180-degree floor-to-ceiling windows for the very best view of the ocean. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and those lucky enough to stay here will feel as though they’re swimming alongside the island’s spectacular fish.  

Did we mention Conrad Maldives holidays deliver the ultimate in luxury living?

5. Its an award-winning resort, obviously

In 2017 Conrad Maldives Rangali Island was named 'The Best Luxury Family Resort In The Indian Ocean', a title presented at the World Luxury Hotel Awards gala in St Moritz. We can’t say we’re surprised…

6. It cost $15 million to build

A simple glance at this state-of-the-art residence will reveal it wasn’t cheap to build. Originally commissioned in 2016, lead architect M.J.Murphy wanted to replicate the Conrad’s underwater restaurant Ithaa’s 180-degree curved acrylic dome ceiling for the master bedroom, incorporating the first underwater unit with plumbing and drainage below sea level. It took two years to build in total. 

7. Hilton Worldwide #1

This is one of Hilton Worldwide’s most popular luxury flagships. With 150 incredible villas and suites, 12 restaurants and bars, plus two luxury spas spread over two remote islands with pure white sands and pristine waters – everything here is elite. 

8. Your itinerary will be bursting

Considering the resort is surrounded by nothing but the tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean, there’s an enormous amount of exciting things to see and do here. Of course, you have all the usual water activities, but those who wish to learn more can also book informative tours and excursions, too. Go on the hunt for whale sharks, enjoy a dolphin cruise via yacht or speedboat, hit the dive centre and more. Or, stay on dry land and learn how to roll your own Chinese noodles or hit the chic boutique and pick up some gorgeous island wear.

Overwater spa treatment room. Image credit: Gecko Digital

9. You’ll have two spas to choose from

Part of the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort, The Spa Retreat and Overwater Spa are located off Rangali-Finolhu and Rangali Island, and both have treatments rooms with glass floors. There are single and couple's treatment rooms, plus a private steam room and sauna. There’s also a hair salon, a gorgeous boutique, a relaxation deck with its own Jacuzzi, plus a manicure room for guests to use. Body wraps, massages, facials, and more luxuries await you, along with a handful of treatments for children and teens. 

10. The resort supports responsible tourism

The resort works with Parley For The Oceans to help promote responsible tourism. This means minimising waste, providing bamboo and wooded items in the villas rather than plastic, and even having a piece of coral with your name on it planted in the sea, to encourage the reef to grow and thrive. 

11. When you’re bored with the infinity pool, water sports are aplenty

Water sports, anyone? The resort’s water sports centre offers everything from catamaran sailing to windsurfing, canoeing and water skiing. Because the resort's coral reef lies so close to the beach, it’s great for discovering brilliantly colourful reef fish and other marvels. Being just a splash away from your villa, you can swim or snorkel to discover amazing marine life. 

You can also experience fishing, day cruises on the hotel yacht, adventures such as submarine trips, whale watching, island hopping, dolphin spotting, or a luxury glass bottomed boat tour. Head to the Ocean Dive Centre and you’ll have access to more than 40 fantastic dive sites. No matter your diving or scuba ability, there’s something for you to get involved in.

12. It has air-conditioning and Wi-Fi

The Muraka at Conrad Maldives exceeds all expectations. Yep, despite being fully submerged underwater, the residence has all the modern facilities and appliances you’d expect from a five-star resort – including digital temperature controls, air-con, and Wi-Fi.

13. Twin islands make up this resort 

This luxurious sprawling resort occupies not just one, but two idyllic islands connected by a 500-metre footbridge. The main hub lies on Rangali-Finolhu, whilst the smaller of the two is Rangali Island. 

14. It has a separate adult only isle

An entire isle dedicated to adults only? Now that’s what we call luxe. Rangali Island is largely adult only and the place to go if you’re seeking total escapism. The island is very chilled, with low-key facilities including a pleasant beach bar, infinity pool, overwater spa and intimate places to relax. The family side over on Rangali-Finolhu is more lively, with lots of activities and different places to dine.  

15. You’ll have a private chef

If you’re staying at The Muraka, all your meals will be included – so you can feast like royalty every single day. The best part? You’ll have your very own private chef on hand to cater to your every fancy, whether that’s fresh strawberries and bubbles in the infinity pool or a full blown three course dinner. 

Ithaa Restaurant. Image Credit: Justin Nicholas

16. Good food doesn’t stop there

Leading the way in the world of gastronomy, this resort is a haven for foodies. If you ever get bored of private dining at your residence, why not head over to the main resort to sample the selection of fine dining restaurants and bars, laid-back dinners on the sand, or a casual drink? You’ll find the following venue’s available:

•    Ithaa underwater restaurant serves contemporary European cuisine for lunch and dinner 
•    Try the Sunset Grill for over-the-water dining specialising in grilled fresh seafood and meats
•    Experience the Koko Grill for Japanese open-air cuisine cooked as you watch 
•    Mandhoo Spa Restaurant offers fresh organic cuisine in an overwater setting
•    Come to Vilu Restaurant for fine dining á la carte plus a huge wine list
•    Vilu Bar is located at the edge of the ocean 
•    Ufaa by Jereme Leung is home to epic Chinese cuisine
•    There’s an international buffet to enjoy at Atoll Market 
•    The Wine Cellar is underground, the place to find five-course gourmet food with specially selected wines from a skilled sommelier
•    Rangali Bar is right next to the main pool 
•    The Quiet Zone is for grown-ups only, with cocktails and peace on tap 
•    The Cheese & Wine Bar offers informal tastings, revealing 101 of the world's finest cheeses
•    The Conrad Rangali also provides private dining experiences on the beach 

Cheese and Wine bar. Image Credit: Justin Nicholas

17. The Cheese & Wine bar is a must

Crowned as the Maldives’ one and only purposely designed cheese and wine bar, this cosy venue situated on the sand is a must. Home to a selected collection of the world’s best cheeses, let the Maître de Fromage choose a few for you to sample, or opt for a melting pot of fondue, instead. All washed down with a glass of the finest complementary wine, of course.

18. Kids, they’ve got you covered

Little ones can expect marine adventures, storytelling, sports, art, games and more to enjoy, as well as cooking workshops. The resort can also provide babysitting services providing you give the resort staff 24 hours notice. 

It comes as no surprise that Conrad Maldives reviews are so amazing, but don’t just take our word for it. Visit this incredible destination to experience its grandeur for yourself, whether you stay at The Muraka or one of the first-class villas over at Conrad Maldives.

Give us a call on 0203 816 0985 to discuss your next visit or explore our Maldives holiday offers available. Equally, you can take a look at Seychelles holiday options for even more tropical island magic.