Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

This was our 17th visit to the Maldives and I think we have now found an island that ticks every single box. Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru truly is amazing in every sense. Where do I start! It has retained that traditional old school Maldivian rustic style with heaps of class and ambience. It only has 49 rooms so it feels spacious and it’s just so pretty. No ugly water villa structures spoiling the views and noisy seaplanes constantly taking off and landing. It has gorgeous talcum powder sand and well established greenery. It just had a magical serenity that is hard to explain. We were in room 1 which was one of the larger Wellbeing villas and it was an absolute delight. Completely private and the decor was gorgeous. Everything in the room was first class and beautifully maintained. Every attention to detail was met from the fluffy pillows to the gorgeous lighting. The little gifts left at turn down were so special too. They did everything to make you feel valued and important without being overbearing with their service. It’s a hard balance to achieve but they did it with bells on! The food was divine and they also catered to my finicky ways! Because I’m not a fan of Japanese cuisine the chef often personally prepared alternatives for me. Nothing was too much trouble for them. A definite highlight for us was the snorkelling. This is why we are so passionate about the Maldives and we were blown away here. Not only did we experience “fish soup” we were also delighted by the condition of the reef. There were underwater cliffs of healthy coral which was a sight to see. The marine centre was so passionate and caring and it shows. My husband enthusiastically joined a reef clean up to remove the pin cushions and crown of thorns . He was keen to help and thank you Henry for suggesting it. We also joined a snorkelling trip to see BIG sharks as well as some huge sting rays. Best snorkelling trip we have made by far in the Maldives! The journey was an adventure in itself. We sped past Male and under the new bridge. Saw a pod of dolphins and then arrived to the sight of huge sharks and rays. I can honestly say I was a little nervous at the sight of so many but the guides were extremely professional and it was an experience I will never forget. The guides also videoed us whilst under the water which was an excellent touch as it meant we could just enjoy it without having to faff about with a GoPro. The footage was amazing! We enjoyed fresh fruit on the way back whilst whizzing through the water on a fast speedboat. Out of this world from start to finish. In addition, we loved to nip over to Iruhu on the speedboat. It literally took 2 minutes and we loved to snorkel over there as the reef was even closer than at Banyan. You can practically roll off your lounger and be on the drop off. You can get a drink over there and we also had lunch there but we always loved returning to our little Vabbinfaru paradise! The entertainment is low key but appropriate. They had 2 singers who were excellent and gave the evening a relaxed and elegant atmosphere . They also had Boru Beru shows and even a beach bonfire one evening. I could go on forever about this little gem of an island. The staff were so attentive and I know it’s a current trend to name particular staff members on TA but I won’t because I would need to name every single one of them. We definitely plan to return next year. We have now found the place that ticks all our boxes . I can’t recommend it enough

Amazing island paradise. Chilled vibe. Great food and welcoming and friendly staff. Snorkelling with turtles and many different species of fish was wonderful. The Saffron restaurant for Thai food was our favourite, and not forgetting the coconut and mango smoothies from the bar in the afternoon.

I've visited 87 resorts, but Banyan Tree Vabinfaru has a charm that keeps us coming back again and again. The resort is absolutely stunning, can not be described, it must be experienced. The perfect resort to end your vacation. Beautiful, comfortable villas where everyone has absolute privacy. Absolute peace all around you. Banyan itself is so peaceful that is feels like your own private island. Luxurious shower products that smell beautiful and retain the Banyan tree signature. You won't find it at any other resort!!! We are very happy that the resort has not changed. Extra cleanliness in every corner of the island. The finest sand at every step. If any tresort is truly berefoot, it is Banyan tree Vabinfaru. Don't hesitate to visit this resort. You will be thrilled.

As a frequent visitor of resorts in Maldives , I had to choose a resort that would suit my 80year old mother who has arthritis. We wanted to celebrate her birthday as a family. We found the Banyan tree. We conveniently took a speed boat within 15 mins of exiting the airport in a wonderful 15 min ride. The resort is compact, cosy & feels as if you are on your own private island . The staff went over & beyond to help my mother get around with a buggy as walking on sand were a bit difficult for her. No request was too big. On the evening of her birthday they reared a beautiful cabana on the beach. I must add BT has a beautiful stretch of soft sand clean beach & crystal clear waters waist high , something I’ve not found at even at the top resorts. The restaurants had lots to offer. If you enjoy Thai food & Thai massages & wellness therapies you need to book Banyan tree. The marine centre is wonderful & coral reef is abundant with beauty . This island is celebrating 30 years this month as one of the first 5 OGs in Maldives. It had all the little creature comforts & luxuries necessary to make your trip very very comfortable. I highly recommend it. While this trip was primarily for my mother , my daughters & I truly enjoyed the sheer bliss & authentic Maldivian culture & vibe . It’s rustic, authentic, small & absolutely a little treasure . Thank you to all the wonderful staff. Housekeeping you were amazing at keeping our villas spotless despite 4 women & their paraphernalia. Liu - you looked after us like a shadow . Responding to my message at 3 am was incredible though I wasn’t expecting it. True quality & a name you can trust . Loved it !!! Thank you so much for helping us create beautiful memories for us as a family .

The room is spacious and beautiful,has private pool and jacuzzi,the room with scent burner is a plus point,the design is nice and cozy,food is delicious too, every Friday night will has a Maldivian culture dance and singing on the beach,is very fun.