When two brands defined by centuries of heritage align, the outcome extends beyond partnership into a carefully crafted sensory experience. The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort and Farina est. 1709, recognised as the world’s oldest fragrance house, have announced an exclusive collaboration that reimagines scent as an integral part of travel. By uniting traditional perfumery with contemporary hospitality, the initiative highlights craftsmanship, refinement and a modern interpretation of luxury that prioritises meaningful, personal engagement over outward display, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most striking destinations.
To inaugurate the partnership, the resort in Dhaalu Atoll has introduced a specially curated programme around the Easter season, combining fragrance, gastronomy and intimate encounters. On April 1, an exclusive dinner inspired by the signature notes of the original Eau de Cologne will translate the house’s olfactory legacy into a sophisticated culinary journey. Each course mirrors a distinct fragrance note: bergamot expressed through ceviche with amberjack and black truffle; orange blossom paired with prawns; a lime and peach sorbet; lobster ravioli complemented by grapefruit sabayon; and mandarin with vanilla presented in a delicate mille-feuille accented by lavender and jasmine. Carefully selected wines accompany the menu, enhancing the aromatic character of every dish and creating a cohesive multisensory experience.
Throughout April, guests can also experience a bespoke cocktail at the Whale Bar, inspired by the fresh, citrus-forward profile of Eau de Cologne and designed to complement evenings overlooking the Indian Ocean. The programme further includes exclusive fragrance masterclasses held in small groups, offering an in-depth introduction to the art of perfumery.
In 1709, Johann Maria Farina established modern perfumery with the creation of Eau de Cologne, giving rise to an entire fragrance category. Under the guidance of Louise Farina, Managing Director and ninth-generation family member, participants explore the raw materials that define the original Eau de Cologne, gain insight into how scent notes interact, and discover how personal identity can be expressed through fragrance. Guests refine the classic base with selected essences to craft a bespoke perfume, creating a keepsake that carries the spirit of the resort beyond their stay.
The collaboration draws upon the shared heritage of both houses. Caroline Astor, a prominent figure in New York society and instrumental in shaping the legacy of St. Regis, regarded fragrance as a defining expression of identity, sophistication and social ritual. At a time when scent was closely associated with elegance, perfume accompanied grand balls, salon gatherings and notable arrivals. This enduring appreciation for timeless fragrance continues through The St. Regis Maldives partnership with Farina est. 1709, whose history reflects a comparable dedication to craftsmanship, tradition and contemporary luxury. “When two houses with such strong heritage come together, something truly special emerges. The original Eau de Cologne is a cultural icon with over 300 years of history. This partnership allows us to present our heritage in a setting that itself stands for the highest standards, tradition and timeless elegance,” says Louise Farina.
Looking beyond Easter, the partnership will remain a key feature throughout the year and will continue in autumn as part of the 10th anniversary celebrations of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. The programme will introduce new fragrances inspired by destinations worldwide, paired thoughtfully with curated culinary experiences where scent, wine and gastronomy intersect. The offering will also include exclusive limited-edition keepsakes designed to preserve memories of the stay long after departure.
Vincent Pauchon, General Manager of the resort, comments: “We place great value on authentic, thoughtfully crafted experiences. Collaborating with Farina est. 1709 allows us to bring together fragrance and hospitality in a thoughtful way, drawing on shared values of heritage, craft and attention to detail. This partnership reflects our approach to offering our guests something distinctive, rooted in excellence and genuine storytelling.”
Through this collaboration, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort and Farina est. 1709 present a refined vision of luxury that is understated yet enduring, positioning fragrance as the subtle signature woven into every stay.
