Thirty-something years after introducing its “barefoot luxury” concept, Soneva, a renowned resort chain founded in the Maldives, continues to embody an aura of effortless cool.
Known for creating a laid-back perfection that many dream of, Soneva also emphasizes self-care down to the cellular level.
READ MORE: K9 Resorts Expands with Seven New Locations in Colorado and Florida
Founded by Sonu and Eva Shivdasani, Soneva launched its first property, Soneva Fushi, in 1995 on the Maldivian island of Kunfunadhoo in the Baa Atoll, part of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserves.
The couple, who also founded luxury hospitality group Six Senses, sold that venture in 2012 to focus on expanding Soneva.
This led to the opening of Soneva Kiri in Thailand in 2009, Soneva Jani in the Maldives in 2016, and this year’s new addition, Soneva Secret, described as a “barefoot paradise.” The brand also boasts a private yacht, Soneva in Aqua.
Barefoot Luxury and Holistic Wellness
Famous for its “no shoes, no news” mantra, where guests ceremoniously remove their footwear upon arrival, Soneva encourages a slower, more peaceful existence. Guests often arrive for dinner in swimwear and use bicycles as the main form of transportation around the islands.
This relaxed luxury is paired with a focus on health and wellness, providing access to medical experts, therapists, and bespoke treatment programs.
At the heart of Soneva’s wellness offerings is Soneva Soul, a center for treatments ranging from acupuncture to vitamin intravenous drips, sound healing, yoga, hydrotherapy, and Ayurveda, to hyperbaric oxygen therapy and the newly introduced stem-cell therapy. Soneva Soul aims to blend ancient healing wisdom with modern science, offering guests a holistic reset.
Eco-Friendly Design and Amenities
Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani’s villas are designed to connect guests with nature. They feature spacious, airy interiors with neutral tones, using natural materials like wood, stone, and bamboo.
The villas often include water slides for direct access to the turquoise sea and come with a Barefoot Guardian, a butler who arranges every aspect of the stay.
Soneva Jani also offers an outdoor cinema, paddle boards, snorkeling gear, and diving trips. Sunset cruises often feature playful spinner dolphins, with in-house marine biologists providing insights.
Culinary Excellence
Soneva’s culinary offerings are just as impressive, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared by skilled chefs. The homemade ice cream parlour, open 24 hours, is a particular highlight. The focus on fresh, garden-to-table dining and an array of epicurean experiences contributes to the high guest return rate.
Sustainable Practices and Community Involvement
Soneva is deeply committed to sustainability. The resort processes its waste on-site, turning food waste into fertiliser and melting glass to create reusable items like water bottles and glasses. The Soneva Namoona initiative helps local communities manage refuse, while the Soneva Foundation supports reforestation, mangrove planting, and coral replanting efforts. To date, the foundation has planted 900,000 trees in Mozambique, 1.5 million mangrove trees in Myanmar, and rehomed thousands of coral colonies in the Maldives.
