The Spa at SO/ Maldives represents a newer, more fashion-conscious interpretation of the Maldivian wellness experience. Located at SO/ Maldives in Emboodhoo Lagoon, it combines the resort’s contemporary design personality with holistic treatments and the natural calm of its tropical surroundings.

The spa is conceived as a sanctuary where the environment plays an important role in the experience. Tropical gardens, water and sea breezes create a softer contrast to SO/’s energetic resort personality, providing guests with a dedicated space in which to slow down.

Facilities include a Vichy Rainforest Shower, sauna and steam room, as well as bathing and relaxation spaces around the pool and gardens. The Vichy Rainforest experience combines cascading water with Hammam influences, preparing the body for an invigorating scrub and subsequent treatments.

SO/ has also placed considerable emphasis on skincare and bespoke treatments. The wellness collection brings together Codage Paris and Salomé C. Stellar, with therapies spanning restorative massages, sculpting treatments and radiance-focused facials.

Wellness goes beyond the treatment rooms. Yoga and meditation can be incorporated into a stay, allowing guests to alternate spa rituals with movement, mindfulness and time beside the water.

What makes SO/ particularly interesting for a current list is its contemporary interpretation of the traditional Maldives resort spa. It is less about recreating an established Asian wellness retreat and more about combining design, beauty, technology and relaxation in a setting aimed at today’s luxury traveller.

The spa’s emergence also demonstrates how rapidly the Maldives’ wellness landscape continues to develop. Established names such as Iridium, Ritz-Carlton and Waldorf Astoria have formidable awards histories, but newer properties such as SO/ are adding fresh competition. For travellers looking for a stylish, modern and highly photogenic wellness experience close to Malé, The Spa at SO/ Maldives is an increasingly notable choice.