The Kingdom of Bahrain has long been a favoured hideaway for those of us in the know. The country is an archipelago made up of 33 islands with The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain standing as a beacon of luxury and sophistication in the heart of the island nation. Its opulent accommodation, world-class amenities, and stunning location offer an experience that promises a seamless blend of tradition with contemporary elegance. The property is based in the Seef district of Manama, Bahrain’s capital, and is perfectly located for exploration of local culture, the city, or in my case, relaxing by the pool. As the chauffeur drives through the sprawling grounds, set over 20 acres, the city evaporates into the background as a peaceful tranquillity soothes the senses. I have arrived.
The lobby is a masterpiece of contemporary elegance, where every detail has been meticulously curated to evoke a sense of timeless luxury. With its expansive height and open ceiling, decorated with polished black and white marble, it reflects the soft luminescence of the lighting, adding to the overall sense of opulence. Greeted upon arrival by the Club Lounge team with a cold fruit juice and a refreshing towel, I am escorted to the suite.
The King Club Suite is the epitome of refined luxury. This expansive suite features a generous living area with plush furnishings, a separate dining space, and an elegant bedroom with a king-sized bed draped in high-thread-count linens. The suite’s decor combines classic charm with modern amenities, providing a tranquil retreat with spectacular views of the gardens, from both the living area and bedroom, with a double sliding door splitting the space. With a spacious walk-in wardrobe, a large en suite with rain shower, and a free-standing soaking tub, the suite oozes elegance.
As a welcome gift there is what can only be described as a wooden treasure chest filled with exotic fruits, a large selection of dates, and Patchi chocolates. A lovely touch and a bounty of food that would take a week to consume, the hotel knows how to make an impression.
Guests booking the Club Suite category enjoy exclusive access to the Club Lounge, where complimentary culinary offerings and personalised service elevate the stay to new heights. Accessible throughout the day and evening, this spot boasts some of the best sights from the property, with views out to the sea and the hotel’s private island. It would be remis of me not to insist on taking a table next to the floor-to-ceiling window.
Exploring the vast property in the summer heat is made easier by the fresh sea breeze caressing my face. Passing by the large outdoor pool on my way to the Beach Club, I’m greeted by something I had not expected. Flamingos! Standing lazily in a lake filled with carp, it creates a real sense of nature. Relating to the flamingos, it is time for a relaxation massage at the Ritz-Carlton Spa. With a comprehensive menu of treatments designed to cater to every need, the spa offers a range of therapeutic massages, facials, and body treatments using premium products. The peaceful atmosphere, complemented by soothing music and calming aromas, creates an oasis where guests can escape the stresses of everyday life. The skilled therapists and state-of-the-art facilities ensure a revitalising experience.
Adjoined to the Royal Beach Club, the spa offers guests access to the hammam facilities and indoor swimming pool. Electing for one of the four temperature-controlled plunge pools in the hammam room – each with a mosaic dome ceiling paying homage to its Middle Eastern roots – is a must for those looking to let stress wash away. Though a word of caution to check the temperature of each before getting in, as the 18-degree option is for those with a braver heart than mine. Feeling like a new man, I go in search of the property’s eateries.
Boasting seventeen food and beverage outlets, a gastronomic journey awaits with a variety of cuisines from around the world. In many ways, a weekend is not enough time to explore all outlets, and a return trip is high upon my agenda. Electing to explore Italy, Primavera offers an ingenious osteria contemporanea concept focusing on authentic and imported seasonal ingredients, and reinterpretations of traditional dishes. Bringing the best of Italy to Bahrain, the restaurant blends dark wood with cream furnishings with a beautiful outdoor terrace to enjoy some of the finest food the property has to offer.
Executive Chef Joergen Sodemann tells me the restaurant prides itself on the very best of ingredients such as a 25-year-aged balsamic Venturini Baldini, from a vinegar cellar that dates back to the 17th century. With that being said, the riccota fatta in casa (home-made ricotta) is a must try, with the vinegar being taken from the barrel tableside, adding theatre to the dish. Delicious creamy ricotta complemented by the sharpness of the tomato and vinegar creates a moreish mouthful, leaving you wanting more. The Neapolitan-style pizzas and seafood dishes with prawns and hammour caught locally in Bahrain waters, are delicious, and are a testament to the focus on the finest of ingredients.
For those looking for something unique, look no further than La Table Krug, the most exclusive dining concept in the region. The name Krug is synonymous with high-quality champagne, and La Table Krug carries forward this legacy of excellence. The restaurant typically offers a unique culinary experience where each dish is crafted to pair with Krug champagnes and glasses of grape.
As the Middle East’s sole Krug establishment, a culinary experience described as cuisine d’auteur (signature cuisine) sees Chef Alexis Knecht showcase the pinnacle of French fine dining. Reservations are essential, as the venue is an exclusive setting with only a few tables available. Entrusting myself to the chef’s expertise, I embarked on a five-course tasting journey. The highlight was undoubtedly the Chilean sea bass fillet, accompanied by roasted leeks and champagne sauce, bursting with complexity with each bite being more delightful than the one before. C’est un régal (it’s delicious)! The ambiance of the venue, an intimate space with just five tables, exudes the charm of a high-society dinner. The dark wood surroundings, coupled with a grand portrait of Johann-Joseph Krug overseeing the proceedings, fill the room with an air of refined formality.
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Reflecting on Bahrain as a top travel destination within the GCC, the hotel evokes promises of a luxurious long weekend getaway. Yet, in truth, a mere weekend is insufficient to fully immerse oneself in all the experiences the property has to offer. A true testament to opulence, the hotel stands as an icon of luxury hospitality. With a longing for just one more night, I bid a heartfelt farewell, already anticipating my return.
