The Banyan Tree Dubai offers the perfect sanctuary from urban life
The aroma of frangipani, jasmine and honeysuckle permeates a thoughtfully manicured garden and winding paths serenaded by a delightful chorus of birdsong lead to where a sea of red and white parasols shades those slumbering by the pool.
Shrieks of joy from water babes enjoying a dip are eventually absorbed by the clear blue skies above.
A scene reminiscent of the Mediterranean where holidaymakers jet to each year in search of this extraordinary beauty, there is, in this case, no need for passports; for this is Banyan Tree Dubai, located on the aptly named Bluewaters Island.
Nearby and under a canopy of lushness, an alfresco bar shaking up all manner of classic cocktails is abuzz with ambient tunes from a live DJ, and the golden sands beyond gently disappear under the crystal blue waters of the sea.
A perfect sanctuary mere steps from the metropolis, this luxury property is where the urban jungle is miraculously exchanged for lush gardens – a paradise if you will; and we are here to experience it for an entire day of indulgence.
Fluffy white beach towels are our trusted companions as we are escorted to our fabulous Serenity Beach Cabana where a king-size beach bed invites us to unfurl our weary bodies after the gruelling working week.
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Our hosts are more than attentive; they authentically care, are happy to serve and do so with a genuine smile, obliging our every whim.
A chic lacquered box is delivered, filled with bottles of ice-cold water, snacks, a spectacular drinks’ menu and, for those looking for more, the Alizée Pool & Beach menu serves light bites like fried calamari, Greek salads and marinated olives – a perfect start to a day of sheer bliss as we gaze out across the waves towards the stunning Ain Dubai.
Picture perfect views
Hunger pangs are our cue to head for the chic beach-side Alizée, which promises contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with Southern French flair.
The restaurant, which is elegant and informed, has an option to dine alfresco on a decked terrace flanked by lushness or within the glossiness of the indoors.
We opt for the latter, sitting where we are treated to picture-perfect views of the great outdoors.
The a la carte menu teases with its array of appetisers, salads, seafood towers, pasta and, among others, fresh grills.
From the Seafood & Raw Bar we order the Seafood Tower. With a crevette bouquet, mussels, seabass crudo and Gillardeau oysters and locally sourced Dibba Bay oysters, enjoyed with ryebread, mayonnaise and condiments.
The cold starters deliver the freshness of the Mediterranean by way of a Burrata served with heirloom tomatoes and pesto, which is the ultimate Caprese delight.
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The Beetroot Tartare accompanied by baby gems, horseradish and chives is soft and velvety with an acceptable tang for that added freshness.
From the Hot Starters, Crispy Filo Prawns in a basil and orange reduction were the perfect choice, with the crunchiness of the filo pastry contrasting the dishes we had already chosen.
Beef Tenderloin “Café de Paris” and Canadian Lobster chosen from the mains’ menu and the ‘From the Wood Fire’ section respectively are our subsequent offerings.
The Black Angus beef is served with not one, but a three-peppercorn sauce. Cooked medium to well done, as I like it, the steak was succulent and, not that it was insufficient in size, I could have devoured more. Paired with sides of Purée Pomme Truffle, Grilled Asparagus and Almond & Broccolini, it is certainly one dish that I would order again and again.
The Canadian Lobster served with lemon and hollandaise sauce bore all the hallmarks of having been cooked atop fiery, hot embers and turned. According to my dining partner, it was an absolute treat and married well with the beach vibes that we had experienced earlier and were about to experience yet again, since there was certainly no room for dessert, as tempting as they were.
Our Cabana beckoned and, with cocktails in hand, it was the perfect way to end the day as the sun slipped behind Ain Dubai and the waves gently lapped the pristine sands.
For more information and bookings, visit Banyan Tree Dubai
For more dining options, visit Yalla Abu Dhabi
