We have a nice little travel story for you that was sent to us from Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort in the Maldives. Earlier this month, Hawksbill turtles started to make their annual pilgrimage to the island’s beautiful beach to nest, and right now, their eggs are getting ready to hatch in their hundreds! Their due date is in late March/early April – just in time for that other annual egg-breaking festival, Easter!
Like most turtle breeds, the Hawksbill turtle is critically endangered due to previous hunting and now, some belief, global warming. Howeverbeliefhe lucky guests who visit Vilu Reef at the right time, the hatchlings’ annual pilgrimage to the ocean at night, led by the reflection of the moon on the water is an amazing natural spectacle.
Located in South Nilandhe Atoll in the far south of the Maldives, Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort is a tiny, remote island with a thriving turtle population due to its narrow, gently shelving beach. Hawksbill turtles return year after year in February and March to lay hundreds of eggs on the sand. The attentive staff ensure the nests are protected from predators before the waiting game begins. Incubation takes just under two months and any nature-loving guests who happen to visit at the right time are welcome to watch the hatchlings run to the sea in the moonlight.
Purely Maldives is offering seven nights at Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort from £2,068 per person. Available for departure on 29 March, the price includes return flights from Heathrow with Emirates, accommodation in a garden villa on a half-board basis, resort seaplane transfers, taxes and surcharges.
Vilu Reef is located in the South Nilandhe Atoll and surrounded by lush green vegetation, tall coconut palms and white sandy beaches, with a beautiful lagoon one side and a reef the other – ideal for snorkelling and diving. In addition to excellent watersports, facilities include an infinity pool, gym, Sun Spa, table tennis, volleyball court, a selection of restaurants and bars and a children’s playground.
