FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Flanked on one side by an expanse of peaking orange dunes and on the other by a sweeping golden coastline, the road approaching Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) couldn’t feel further from the dense urban sprawl of Dubai, which sits just one-hour to the south of this lesser-known emirate.
En route to Banyan Tree, we pass several small camel farms, and more than once find ourselves making impromptu stops to allow hulking mammals to cross the road – a prime photo opportunity for guests seeking a postcard-perfect snapshot of the Middle East. We are greeted at the property’s departure jetty (around 20 kilometres from RAK city) with an enthusiastic smile and soon find ourselves aboard the resort’s water taxi, which ferries us a short distance across the bay to the beachside hotel.
THE VILLA
On arrival, we are greeted with a chilled hibiscus juice – a welcome relief from the oppressive midday sun – and are promptly whisked to our accommodation via electric buggy. Located on a small peninsula in the enclave of Al Jazirah Hamra (close to the up-market Al Hamra Village and Golf Club), Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach comprises just 32 villas and boasts beautiful Arabian Gulf views, while maintaining a secluded, exclusive feel.
On first impressions, our villa could double for a luxury tipi. Its canopied roof is propped up by ornate supporting beams and the doors are flanked by large Arabic clay pots, giving the property a traditional, organic feel, which is entirely in keeping with Banyan Tree’s all-natural style. Inside, a large king-sized bed with a flowing linen canopy dominates the centre of the room, while a sizeable living area – with additional seating, a futon and 41-inch flat screen TV – occupies the far end. A rainforest shower and separate washroom are positioned behind the bed, complete with dual sinks and two vanity areas.
Throughout, marble accents contrast the villa’s dark hardwood interior, giving the room a clean, modern aesthetic, while elaborate hanging brass lanterns offer a touch of opulence. This is all outshone, however, by the outdoor terrace. The private sundeck includes a marble shower, bath and (most importantly) a large, temperature-controlled infinity pool. Overlooking a private cabana – and, beyond that, the azure waters of the Gulf – the pool is the perfect place to watch the sun set with a glass of crisp champagne in hand.
THE SPA
Soon after arrival, I take the short walk to the Banyan Tree Spa on the tip of the peninsula for my mid-afternoon treatment. Opting for the guest-favourite Balinese massage (after a somewhat rushed lemongrass tea), I am a little disappointed to see that there is no communal changing area, shower or sauna in which to freshen up and relax before the treatment. Instead, I am ushered directly to the treatment room, where I hurriedly change as my eager therapist waits outside.
This hasty introduction to the spa is soon forgotten, however, when the massage begins. My masseuse, named Earn, begins by working out the kinks between my shoulder blades and completes the one-hour deep-tissue massage with perfect pressure and expert precision. After an outdoor shower overlooking the calm waters of the bay, I feel completely relaxed and ready to enjoy the remainder of my visit.
If you are looking to experience the full range of spa facilities on offer at Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah, I would strongly recommend that you make the short 20-minute journey to Banyan Tree Al Wadi – the beach resort’s sister property, located in the tranquil Wadi Khadeja region of the Ras Al-Khaimah desert. The beach hotel is more than happy to assist you on your forward journey to the nearby resort, and for wellness-lovers it will be more than worthwhile.
DINE
Despite only having one restaurant on site, there is no shortage of dining opportunities at the resort. After considering our varied options, we decide to sample the private in-villa barbeque, which is set up on the outdoor terrace just after sundowners. Cooked by a private chef, our meal begins with succulent seared tuna and green salad followed by meaty king prawns and spiced salmon fresh from the charcoal grill. After a perfectly cooked Canadian tenderloin steak and delicate veal ribs with crispy baked potatoes, dinner is finished with a sweet selection of freshly prepared cheesecakes and an exotic fruit platter.
For the ultimate romantic dining experience, the resort also offers private dinner on an isolated islet just off the coast. Alternatively, you can eat inside your villa or at Sands, a gourmet restaurant offering international cuisine (and a wide selection of wines) overlooking the resort’s infinity pool.
LAST WORD
If you are seeking a romantic desert island escape in the United Arab Emirates, there are few five-star properties that deliver quite like Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach. With a culinary offering to match its beautiful azure views and sweeping coastline, a few nights at this beach resort will have you feeling refreshed and loved-up in equal measure.
THE IMPORTANT BIT
Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach
+971 7 206 7777
www.banyantree.com
Price: from AED 1,890 (US $514) per night for the Summer Indulgence package, based on two adults and one child below 6yrs sharing (inclusive of daily breakfast and dinner in Sands Restaurant from a selected menu excluding beverages, plus a 60 minute Rainforest Experience)
Available: until September 30, 2014
