Ayada Maldives, a new island-based resort covering 150,000sq m (1.6 million sq ft) of land in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll to the south of the country, has opened its doors to guests.

Facilities at the 112-villa resort include tha 3,500sq m (37,674sq ft) AySpa and Health Club, which is managed by ESPA; a dive and watersports centre; and seven restaurants.

The AySpa and Health Club is located at the heart of the resort and is designed for form an enclave within the island's natural vegetation and other facilities at the property.

Eight treatment villas, some with their own hydrotherapy baths; a segregated steamroom and sauna area; a cold plunge pool; and two Vichy showers are on offer at the spa.

A warm vitality pool and the Maldives' first Turkish Hammam featuring a marble plinth have also been installed as part of the AySpa, which aims to rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit.

Aydeniz Group board member Firat Aydeniz said: "It was of paramount importance to us to showcase the beauty and tranquillity of the location.

"We also wanted to infuse elements of the Ottoman culture into Ayada Maldives and as such subtle influences can be found in the decorative design of the villas, the Turkish Hammam in the spa and the Ottoman Lounge."

Details: www.ayadamaldives.com