Raffles Hotel & Resorts
Forget about rooms and suites. Raffles offers even more exclusive accommodation in the Middle East.
The Singaporean hotel chain recently opened a new resort in Bahrain that it claims is the country’s first and only all-villa property. Designed in collaboration with GFH Financial Group, this luxury outpost is comprised of his 78 private villas with impressive pools.
Located in the modern village of Zaraq on Bahrain’s west coast, the new Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain features a beautiful white palatial façade. Step through the decorative front door to a lush, light-filled lobby. The interior features Moorish architectural features such as horseshoe-shaped door arches and intricate tilework, as well as sleek modern furniture and works by local Bahraini artists.
The villas have one, two or three bedrooms and can sleep two, four or six people respectively. The grandest Royal Three-Bedroom Villas feature nearly 8,000 square feet of living space, plush lounge and dining areas, luxurious bathrooms with oversized bathtubs, and private pools and Jacuzzis.
In addition to the villas, the on-site spa offers a variety of treatments that combine innovative techniques from the East and the West. (The “Milky Chocolate Bath” is particularly intriguing.) The spa is staffed by local expert practitioners and stocked with eco-friendly products. Facilities include a gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, tennis court and squash court.
This resort also caters to gourmets. Palma, an all-day Mediterranean restaurant, serves locally inspired fusion cuisine prepared by renowned chefs. (For example, famous French pastry chef Yazid Ihemrahen will be in charge of the sweet treats.) Additionally, guests can enjoy in-villa dining or have their personal chef prepare a meal for them.
Additionally, this property offers a variety of on-site experiences. Take an art tour led by a butler and curator, participate in a botanist-led workshop in the hotel’s secret garden, or enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner. Off-site, you can explore nearby wildlife reserves, do some shopping in the city, or visit attractions such as Bahrain International F1 Circuit, Al Dana Amphitheater and Exhibition World Bahrain .
Omer Akar, CEO of Raffles Hotels & Resorts, said in a statement: “Raffles has a strong presence in the Middle East and this stunning new hotel will offer guests a never-before-seen introduction to Bahrain’s enchanting charm. It will provide an opportunity to explore.”
Villas start at about $1,200 per night. You can book your stay online now.
Click here for more images of the resort below.