Blankets, baskets and beauty and more at the 19th Hole.
Close your eyes and listen.
The gentle rustling of leaves from a pleasant breeze slowly wisping in from the sea; the consistent clink of a metallic head of driver connecting with the dimpled-face of a golf ball as players practice their swing; the laughter and chatter from patrons who have finished their round of golf; it could be a scene from any Links golf course’s 19th Hole in the UK.
Open your eyes now and you will see Arabian sand gazelles milling around, nibbling on grass, completely unperturbed by little white missiles flying over their heads. This is no golf course in the UK; this is Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.
Team Yalla had the pleasure of teeing off at the Hawksbill Restaurant’s Picnic on the Grass on Saturday and it is safe to say, we won’t get any yips in recommending this spot.
Strolling through Saadiyat Beach Golf Club to the outdoor terrace that is replete with finely-manicured, lush grass and wooden benches and tables decked in Gingham tablecloths, visitors are greeted with views of the rolling hills of the driving range, the blue hue of the Arabian Gulf on the horizon as well as the natural inhabitants of Saadiyat Island in particular the aforementioned ‘Dhabi’.
The venue inspires complete relaxation and peace with its ‘close-to-nature’ vibes and chilled-out music – it’s hard to believe this little sanctuary of respite is only a few miles from the heaving metropolis of the city centre.
Living up to its name, guests can expect the full picnic experience with a tartan blanket to place oneself on and of course, the iconic wicker basket possessing a range of the usual suspects that avid picnic-goers would expect.
Neatly packed into small boxes of Tupperware, tuck into the likes of freshly-made sandwiches of smoked salmon, cool cucumber, chicken mayonnaise, Fattoush, an assortment of cheeses and charcuterie and creamy potato salad. There’s even packets of crisps, bananas and apples to make it a picnic which mum would happily approve.
It truly is a treat and poses the question; why does one not go on more picnics?
The basket goodies are enough to fill any rumbling tums but should you feel there is more room in the tank, there is a hot buffet with a variety grilled meats, roasted vegetables, curries and veggie options to dismiss any lingering hunger pangs.
And of course, those of sweet persuasion can get their kicks with wonderfully chocolaty brownies, panna cotta, sticky toffee pudding, cheesecake and a fruit bowl for you to enjoy.
Truly a wonderful way to spend your Saturday afternoon in Abu Dhabi.
To book your table (and blanket) call 056 660 8780 or email events.sbgc@aldargolf.com
