Bahrain Confidential stays at the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa
A happening island life, pristine beaches, a blend of different cultures, panoramic views of the sunset, and family-friendly vibes – Bahrain has much to offer when it comes to relaxing staycations. What began as a buzzword, “staycations” have become a way of life, a means to taking a break from the daily grind and recharging yourself with a dose of relaxation.
Far from the bustling city, the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa recently welcomed us for a staycation experience at the luxury property. The majestic resort sits along the west coast of the island with views of the endless sea, meandering water channels, restaurants catering to different tastes, and a great range of amenities that make for a memorable weekend getaway.
A few kilometres away from Zallaq’s Bilaj Al Jazayer and the Bahrain International Circuit, the resort introduces you to quintessential Bahraini depictions – from the three pearls at the entrance and the Gahwa served at the lobby to the artworks that symbolise Bahrain’s culture and people. Not to mention, the views of the open sea from different locations at the resort, including every one of its 196 rooms.
Resort & Spa
While the property exudes luxury, it’s more refreshing and relaxing when you first enter. We could have spent an hour or two just admiring the lobby, the reading corners on either side of it, and an outdoor seating area with a panoramic view of the resort and the open beach.
We began the relaxing staycation quite literally, at the relaxation hub of the resort – Talise Spa. A luxurious, award-winning rejuvenation centre, Talise Spa, with its calming aroma filling the air, spoils you with an array of signature treatments. Easily spend half of your day at Talise with a session at one of their 13 treatment rooms, designed for singles and couples, a female-only hammam facility and separate gyms for men and women. The facility also has a beauty salon and a temperature-controlled swimming pool. Your ultimate self-care routine is accomplished at one destination!
After a nourishing hour at the spa, we checked out the infinity pool. Overlooking the sea, the infinity pool is set at an elevation and is the coldest of the five pools at the resort with temperatures of 22 degrees. You could gaze into the vast view of the sea along with a panoramic perspective of the entire resort.
Resort & Spa
While the resort was busy with vacationing families, it was easy to find privacy and seclusion at the resort. The comfortable cabanas dotting the main recreational area make it possible to spend much of the day soaking up some rays and enjoying the cackle of children ziplining or sliding into the pool. We sat here for hours, enjoying some refreshing summer drinks delivered by the poolside staff.
At lunchtime, we dined at the resort’s Sicilian restaurant, Due Mari. Alongside the canal (which offers a gorgeous view of the passing Abra Boats, transporting you to a Sicilian diner with a waterfront view), Due Mari is a charming dining venue with an intimate atmosphere and a very friendly staff.
Chef Lorenzo’s passion for his craft is evident the moment he begins to describe and match the many dishes on his menu to your liking. From the Arancini to the Risotto Primavera, the seafood salad and the delicious Ravioli – it was a feast of flavours.
A special shout-out to the Arancini, a popular Sicilian street food, which Chef Lorenzo creates with his home-style recipe. Street food always remains in your memories and this dish, created to perfection, did just that! Chef Lorenzo’s special recipe is a crispy ball of fried rice mixed with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese – and was the most irresistible plate of fine Italian food we’ve ever tried. We will most certainly be going back for the Arancini.
Apart from Due Mari, the resort has six other dining locations including the bar, 25 | 50; Majlis Al Fijri, where you can enjoy delectable pastries both local and international; Obab Al Bahar, which serves Arabic, Indian, Pan-Asian, and European cuisine; Al Sama, a watering hole specialising in Levantine and Mediterranean flavours; Osoul, the beachside dining venue and Zahrat Al Fayrouz, the Levantine restaurant that brings an array of delicious flavours from the region.
After a hearty lunch and the Sun descending in sight, it was time for our favourite part of the day – a hike up to the beach! The white sand met the clear blue water while reflecting the golden setting Sun. Sean Kingston’s track played at the beach shack, giving way to the ultimate lazy and relaxing experience you crave while at the beach. For adrenaline junkies, a number of beach activities are available – motorboats, kayaks, and paddle boards, to name a few.
Resort & Spa
We’ve mentioned the Abra Boats before but let’s take a moment to appreciate this truly authentic Arabic experience that the resort provides along with its many amenities. Running along the boundaries of the resort, each ride gives you a tour of the property through the water.
Resort & Spa
The resort’s other offerings include a 36-seater private cinema, a Kids’ Club for the little ones to engage in interesting activities, and two ballrooms that each accommodate up to 160 people with spacious outdoor gardens to host events.
Our experience at the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain was nothing short of relaxing and whether you reside in Bahrain or are travelling into the Kingdom, a stay at the gorgeous property is definitely recommended. It’s a lot more than a five-star resort, it’s a sanctuary for wellness haven that offers a tranquil experience.
To book your stay at the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain, visit www.jumeirah.com or call (+973) 77771000.