There are few factors that come into play when searching for a great getaway – good food, great company and a fantastic location. Situated in the serene and picturesque district of Sakhir, Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor has earned a reputation for being a safe haven away from the busy city. Bill Grieve recently stayed at the stunning property for a weekend getaway and describes his staycation experience at what is easily one of Bahrain’s leading resorts.
Al Areen Palace and Spa by Accor is situated outside of the hustle and bustle of any of the built-up areas in Bahrain, with 78 luxury villas positioned on over 131,000 square meters of pristine grounds. What makes the property even more special is the fact that it has a unique rain forest area and an ice igloo system apart from an expansive spa area that spans over 10,000 sqm.
Driving the roughly 30 km from Manama to the resort is on double highway almost all the way, convenient and picturesque to say the least with the final approach being a wonderful winding, wide and open road that brings you right to the reception of the Al Areen Palace and Spa.
Conveniently situated at the entrance, their covered parking ensures that cars are kept cool and shaded while security ensures the safety of all guests and vehicles at the property. From the time of arrival until the time of departure, the courteous and highly professional team sees to guests’ every need.
Considering how expansive the property is, we were delighted to learn that an efficient shuttle service using golf caddies is at visitors and guest’s beck and call. These caddies transported us as and when needed – a turnkey service, door-to-door and on call as required.
The majestic villas are offered in several categories, all having total seclusion by virtue of high walls and positioning along with incredible heated swimming pools and bedroom door front interlinking Jacuzzis. Visitors can opt for a One-Bedroom Desert Villa, Family Desert Villa, Two-Bedroom Royal Villa and Three-Bedroom Premium Villa.
All the villas are self-contained with plush interiors, high quality furniture, crisp fresh linen, and bedding, room-by-room Bose sound systems, flat screen TV’s, Wi-Fi, and a fridge.
The bathrooms are incredible and spacious, and all villas offer a wonderful warm water outdoor shower to wash off under after enjoying a swim in the pool or relaxing lounge in the jacuzzi. The property’s attention to detail makes each villa truly luxurious!
Inside the complex and surrounded by the high walls of the villas, secluded from everything except the sounds of birds it feels somewhat reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles in France, colloquially known as the ‘Château of Versailles’. Located out in the country, this was where Marie Antoinette gave her finest demonstration of Noblesse Oblige by splurging out in an almost untold fashion and creating a place of opulence and luxury for her and the French aristocracy who she surrounded herself with.
Inside the villa walls the feeling of seclusion is total and wonderful. It is so great, in fact, that it makes you feel totally isolated so you may relax in total privacy - and they deliver food too… excellent!
Needless to say, we had a fantastic time at this spectacular property. If you’d like to plan your getaway, be sure to visit www.alareenpalace.com.
Don’t forget to take a big cooler box or two full of your favourite beverages with you!
The Al Areen Palace ‘Live Your Life SPA’
The luxury and pampering offered at the Al Areen SPA is mind blowing. It is as advertised “a sanctuary for complete relaxation and rejuvenation of mind, body and soul”, and is aligned with a luxury state of the art gym too.
The SPA offers Remedy and Massage Therapy, Body Massages, Facial Treatments, Aromatherapy Baths including milk, rose and milky chocolate baths as well as a range of SPA treatments including a luxury Moroccan Bath.
The gym is well equipped with top of the range equipment and facilities, and offers a variety of classes including spinning, yoga, Zumba, circuit training, cardio mix, abs and aga dancing too.
The Momento Restaurant – A Diner’s Delight
Situated right in the heart of the villa complex on a scenic lake front, Momento Restaurant is exquisitely beautiful at night. It offers outstanding dining both indoors and outside and delivers to the villas as well. The culinary concept is inspired by the very best of Mediterranean cuisine and culture with the food philosophy is based on Sol, Tierra and Fuego which is an inspiration from the three elements (Sea, Land and Fire). The restaurant blends traditional and modern cooking techniques utilising fresh costal and local ingredients. The creamy Risotto al Funghi is to die for. We also tucked into the Naomi Lamb which is succulent and a culinary festival to the taste buds, as is every dish on the menu. Each item is usually presented with a selection of fine fresh warm breads that are an absolute treat.
