Cheval Blanc Randheli

An unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. The location is extraordinary—an intimate island with just 47 villas, surrounded by crystal-clear water teeming with marine life. The experience begins the moment you arrive at the Seaplane Salon in Malé, where you’re welcomed with delicious refreshments and warm hospitality. A special thank you to Fatoh for going above and beyond. At the resort, Lionel (GM), Rico (Resort Manager), and Tanya were consistently present, attentive, and clearly invested in guest comfort. Their leadership really shows. However, my assigned majordome, Taylor, fell far below the expected standard. She was often unpleasant, seemingly tired and overwhelmed, defensive when addressed about errors, visibly stressed, and at times unprofessional—something that negatively impacted my stay. She was highly reactive and rarely proactive. It made me very uncomfortable as a guest. At this level, exceptionally high service should be a given, and this was not the case with her. It made interactions uncomfortable, and I genuinely don’t feel this role is the right fit for her. That said, every other staff member I encountered was exceptional. The teams at the restaurants especially WHITE ESTAURANT & BAR, housekeeping, spa, and activities were warm, gracious, and incredibly hardworking. A special shoutout to Samy, the White Bar manager, whose service, warmth, and energy were unmatched—truly the standout staff member of my stay. Sophiko, Aijomal, and Daniel were also consistently kind, attentive, and delightful. The White Restaurant/Bar staff in general were phenomenal. The food is outstanding. Breakfast is next-level and absolutely unforgettable. I tried a wide range of cuisines—Indian, Maldivian, Asian, sushi, Italian, Middle Eastern, French—and everything was executed to perfection, with top-quality, fresh ingredients. The resort has chefs from France, authentic Indian chefs, and even a Sardinian chef at Deelani (highly recommend the Milanese risotto!). Spa Island was another highlight. Olga, Nai (Thai therapist), Auchan, and Teeza were all exceptional, offering warm service and fantastic treatments. My only notes: I was surprised that no welcome drink/tea is offered upon arrival—only a cold towel—and the Guerlain branding feels a bit overdone. The villas are breathtaking—arguably the most beautiful accommodations I’ve ever stayed in. Interior design, cleanliness, amenities, and comfort were all impeccable. The private pool is heavenly. Housekeeping did a solid job overall, though sometimes response times for simple requests were much slower than acceptable (1+ hour). The resort is peaceful, private, and never felt crowded. However, I do feel this property is best suited for adults. A few families struggled to manage their children, and a crying baby disrupted breakfast on multiple days, which detracted from the serene atmosphere. Smoking is permitted at breakfast in the outdoor area, and this was unpleasant for me as a non-smoker when a neighboring table decided to start smoking. On one occasion, the villa next to mine played loud music late at night, but the staff resolved it immediately once I reported it. There is a good selection of activities and excursions—sunset cruises, jet skis, the surf simulator, kayaking, SUP, and more—ensuring there’s always something to do. Overall: Despite one significant service issue, Cheval Blanc Randheli is a world-class, visually stunning, and truly special resort with exceptional food, incredible staff (in most areas), and an atmosphere of privacy and tranquility. The setting alone makes it worth experiencing.

The incredible harmony of Cheval Blanc’s luxury with the Maldives’ magnificent sea and nature is truly unforgettable. The perfection of the hotel staff stands out. The variety of restaurants is impressive, and the food is delicious. It is truly a magnificent hotel in every respect. I have also stayed at resorts such as One&Only and Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru in the Maldives. They were beautiful, but Cheval Blanc surpasses them in performance.

From the moment you arrive, the design and spacious villas make it clear this is more than just a place to stay it’s a true work of art. Every detail feels considered, and the dining is as impressive as the setting. Service is flawless, with staff recognizing you by face and remembering your preferences without needing reminders. The spa on its own island, the healthy restaurant, the beach club for snorkeling, and the fantastic kids’ club all add to the experience. A special mention to our butler Herakli, whose professionalism and care went far beyond expectations, making the stay unforgettable.

- Have kept coming back over the years; paradise and excellence unmatched - GM Laurent has continued to deliver highest level luxury, making it happen for ultimate luxury - Operationally super solid; very thoughtful in integrating preferences, executing the details, being thoughtful every step of the way. - Could not imagine better. Level of bespoke / custom excellence was top. - Saajiu was outstanding - delivered above and beyond, perfectly executed. - Therapist Nai was also excellent in every way, tremendous - In the early mornings, Abdullah was incredibly helpful and resourceful. High kudos. - Spa island very well maintained; cold plunge and steam top and perfect temperatures - Across the board, excellent. Highly recommend for pinnacle luxury.

This was our 7th trip to the Maldives (to celebrate our 23rd anniversary), we decided to stay at Randheli which indeed really blew me away. The quality of service that Cheval Blanc staff had delivered was not only exceptional but also genuinely warm and thoughtful, starting from the hotel representative who picked us up at the airport to everyone whom we got opportunity to talk to. Special thanks to Mme. Silvia, M. Rico Haus, the staff we chatted with at the dining venues : Astrof (thank you for sharing your Maldives spice blend that indeed elevated the taste of the dish I was having), Sami (the very friendly restaurant manager), Evente; also Said (the surf simulator instructor) and not to forget our majordome, Nasheed, all of you had made our stay at Randheli feel as if we’re at home, so enjoyable and special! Also we’re so grateful for the chef at White Restaurant (apologies as we didn’t ask your name) who had made very special gluten & dairy free pastries & donuts for my younger daughter. We stayed at the Lagoon Garden Villa as well as the Island Villa, both villas were beautifully designed and very spacious , filled with wonderful amenities. Unfortunately the weather was not on our side during this stay but since there were plenty to do around the island and also in the villa, we never got bored. Also the island itself was so lush with beautiful landscaping. We really cannot wait to go back!