When looking for a tropical vacation destination that takes discretion as seriously as it does the concept of rest and relaxation, the Royal Reserve private residency at Ozen Reserve Bolifushi is a sure bet. The lush 3,000sqm exclusive enclave in the Maldives is designed so guests can enjoy all of the amenities of the island’s larger luxury resort without stepping foot outside the walls of the three-bedroom retreat. 

The moment guests land at the Velana International Airport, they are effortlessly whisked away to the island on a private luxury catamaran, forgoing the communal dock for one created solely for those staying at the Royal Reserve. Once they alight on the island, Royal Reserve vacationers can gaze over the crystal-clear Maldivian waters as they enjoy the pleasure of walking barefoot across the warm sand of their own private beach. 

This sense of refined exclusivity continues to grow while exploring the grounds. As the eye follows the waves crashing along the beach, past a line-up of comfy chaise longues and swinging hammocks, a private ocean-side dining pavilion with a picturesque deck shaped in the form of a dhoni can be glimpsed. There, a personal chef will whip up any meal guests desire and the space, with floor-to-ceiling views of the azure blue waters, comes outfitted with an open kitchen area designed for displays of Asian cuisine fine dining. 

From the beach, a manicured lawn spotted with a charming circular pebble pathway leads off the oceanfront to the reserve’s expansive outdoor living space – all of it conceived for relaxing family time. From the multiple seating areas outfitted with plush couches and the 65sqm pool, to the roomy open-air jacuzzi and the soothing lily pond, the tranquil surrounds are conducive to creating core memories with loved ones. 

Tucked away on the serene southern edge of the island, the unassuming main entrance to the Royal Reserve belies the hidden grandeur that is to be found behind its heavy doors. The main living and dining pavilion feature a ceiling festooned with rivers of crystals and massive chandeliers. Beneath them, families and friends can gather around an impressive wood dining table, congregate on luxurious curving couches, or sink into deep armchairs designed to support hours of summer reading. 

Just steps away is the master villa, which the staff lovingly call ‘the sanctuary’. There, a king-size bed takes centre stage, surrounded not only by indoor and outdoor seating areas, but a massive walk-in closet as well. And that’s not to mention a connecting bathroom with a deep Kelly Hoppen soaker tub and glass walls that frame views of the rich green tropical foliage that covers the compound. 

The clever design of the Royal Reserve also gives guests that all-important holiday feature of personal space. The easy flow of the estate has none of the bedrooms directly connected, adding another subtle layer of privacy for those staying in the sanctuary or the two other guest villas, which feature their own impressive en-suites. 

For those looking to make sure to include a bit of health and wellness into their holiday plans the reserve comes fitted with a state-of-the-art private gym. This venue is tricked out with Life Fitness gear, including weights, a treadmill and an elliptical machine. 

There is also a private on-site spa with two massage tables ready and waiting. Guests who book the Royal Reserve can ring up a trainer or spa therapists at any hour of the day or night, as the friendly yet discreet staff – including a dedicated butler – is always available to help make the stay bespoke to the individual needs and desires of each guest. 

And speaking of needs, if a visitor is in need of more than just the Royal Reserve’s three bedrooms, the resort has at the ready a connecting guest house that has room to accommodate another four guests. This can become the perfect solution for those travelling with larger families, personal staff, or additional security. 

For patrons of the Royal Reserve who do end up deciding to explore more of the island, there are a myriad manners of entertainment options to choose from. For foodies, the resort has an impressive and varied selection of restaurants to explore. The Thali food experience on offer at Saffron instantly transports guests into the savoury, spicy world of Indian cuisine. Soyi gives guests a Pan-Asian option that is so enticing that staying until closing time is a real possibility. And over at Originē, the freshest of seafood is on offer, prepared by a gourmet kitchen looking to create gastronomical memories for guests as they enjoy the ocean views. 

If communing with nature is also an important part of the holiday agenda, Ozen Reserve Bolifushi does not disappoint. Any number of watersports are at the ready – from self-propelled (sailing, windsurfing, or paddle boarding) to super-charged (water skiing, banana boat riding, and water skiing). There are also more in-depth underwater adventures to be had, such as snorkelling, scuba diving, and even a tour on a semi-submarine. 

After exploring the resort, which is notably Green Globe Certified for its commitment to sustainable tourism, Royal Reserve guests need only use their dedicated buggy to return to the grandeur of their exclusive abode. 

There, they can effortlessly immerse themselves back into the quiet of their holiday haven, safe in the knowledge that their vacation will be one for the record books. This is a trip the whole family will talk about for years to come –and look forward to taking again as soon as the fates allow.

For more information, visit theozencollection.com/bolifushi/