Desert holidays - sand and glamour!
Desert holidays - sand and glamour!
Both Anantara desert retreats offer uniquely differing aspects for a luxury holiday, and I was fortunate enough to visit both of these luxury hotels on an educational trip earlier this year.
Anantara Desert Islands Resort & Spa is reached from Abu Dhabi International Airport in around 3-4 hours by road. You'll head over to the jetty at Jebel Dhana ready for a 15 minute speedboat transfer to Sir Bani Yas Island. Once on the boat you'll be given a book and a map with all the animals, flora and fauna you can expect to see on the island.
Two excursions are included as part of every three night stay here, and going on the morning safari to see cheetahs, Arabian oryx, hyenas, giraffe and gazelles amongst others must surely be one of those! I fed the giraffes when I went which was a highlight of the trip (see picture above).
You can also choose to go snorkelling, mountain biking across the island with a guide or fire some arrows with archery lessons. On site activities include the relaxing spa, sparkling pool area, tennis courts, modern gymnasium and a dedicated club for younger visitors.
The other desert option in Abu Dhabi is more of an authentic desert option rather than a desert island, as you'll traverse deep into the Arabian wilderness into the heart of the desert to find the stunning Anantara Qasr al Sarab. The resort blends into the sands and looks very much like a fortress as you arrive in your private car. So much so that you might not 'see' it until you have passed through the welcome gate.
This is a beautiful, palatial hotel adorned with Arabian fabrics, castle like doors, 6ft tall pottery and sumptuous decor. Here, you can experience 4x4 sand dune rides and a quite breathtaking morning sunset as well as a falconry experience and camel trekking. You'll also have the spa, pool, tennis courts, gymnasium and business centre in resort as well as a deeply romantic and stylish guest bedroom. and I must mention the quality of the food here which is astoundingly good, espeically the delicious lobster thermidore at the buffet restaurant.
Various transfer options are available to access both of these wilderness resorts, choose from private chopper or air conditioned private car or taxi from Abu Dhabi International Airport. If you choose the car transfer however, be aware the transfer time is quite significant - but thoroughly worthwhile.
Remember, If you're visiting Dubai you could choose Bab Al Shams Resort & Spa which is set away from the main hub of Dubai, and offers boutique glamour with a focus on personal space, spa treatments and quiet contemplation.
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