For travellers who want to live their best life without having to keep one eye on their bank balance, Bahrain strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and accessibility. This Arabian Gulf nation is filled with gems, from exclusive boutique hotels to elite fine-dining venues and premium shopping experiences – all with a more welcoming price point than many of its better-known neighbours.
This archipelago kingdom is home to some of the region’s most luxurious properties, including the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, which is set on its own private island, and The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, a secluded haven with beachfront villas, a marina and 24-hour butler service. Look beyond big-name brands and you’ll find some seriously sophisticated boutique hotels too. This includes the art-filled Merchant House, which sits at the gateway to Manama’s vibrant Bab Al Bahrain souq, as an oasis of calm amid the bustle of the characterful old town.
World-class service and stunning waterfront views await at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Credit: Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay
High-end living isn’t limited to accommodation. Bahrain is also home to The Royal Golf Club, with its 18-hole championship course designed by Colin Montgomerie. It caters to both seasoned golfers and beginners, and there’s also night golf under the floodlights, a full-service country club, as well as a spa in which you can unwind after a long day on the greens.
The Royal Golf Club offers night golf, a country club, a spa and an 18-hole championship course Credit: Kevin Murray
Elsewhere, the spa at Sofitel Bahrain in Zallaq is in a league of its own. It’s the only Thalassa sea and spa therapy centre in the region, offering seawater-based treatments that draw on the healing powers of the ocean. Whether you’re seeking a full detox programme or a full-body massage, the experience is deeply restorative and indulgent.
Unwind with restorative seawater-based treatments at Sofitel Bahrain’s spa and therapy centre
Naturally, for an archipelago, Bahrain is also home to some stunning beachfronts, including private shorelines at many of the country’s five-star resorts. For something particularly exclusive, visit the first-of-its-kind Solymar Beach in Amwaj Marina, where serene sea views meet high-end service in a tranquil beach club environment. Think cabanas, sunset cocktails and fresh cuisine, all overlooking Bahrain’s turquoise waters.
For something truly unique head to Bahrain International Circuit, which opened over two decades ago as the region’s first home to the F1 Grand Prix. Every April it turns into a spectacle for world-class motorsports, but out of season the track is open to the public for go-karting, drag racing, off-roading or even a full racing experience behind the wheel of a single-seater. It’s high-adrenalin luxury – without the VIP price tag.
Feel the adrenalin at Bahrain International Circuit with go-karting, drag racing and off-roading
Another area in which Bahrain excels in is retail therapy, with bougie shopping districts such as Moda Mall, at the base of the Bahrain World Trade Centre, or Marassi Galleria, a large mall with a waterfront dining promenade, and which is home to Marassi Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and an Adventure Park. For a more boutique, home-grown shopping experience, A’Ali Mall is the perfect pitstop.
What’s on offer here is something rare: luxury that’s personalised over performative. It’s where quality meets exclusivity in an experience that leaves you feeling pampered rather than priced out.
A fabulous dining venue for every night of the week
Bahrain’s fine-dining scene is as varied as it is refined. Here are some of the most sophisticated yet affordable restaurants you can visit while on the island.
Roka
Part of the international chain originating in London, Roka is a Japanese robatayaki restaurant in Bahrain Harbour, offering great views of the Manama seafront and the Gulf. The menu focuses on its signature grill, together with other Japanese dishes, and it also hosts special events such as the popular weekend family brunches.
Cut by Wolfgang Puck
The Michelin-starred Austrian chef and restaurateur is behind this exquisite two-storey steakhouse in Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, where some of the island’s best cuts of meat are served up alongside impressive skyline views seen through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Rasoi by Vineet
World-renowned chef Vineet Bhatia opened Rasoi by Vineet in Bahrain’s oldest five-star hotel, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain, over 10 years ago – and it’s still going strong. Expect sumptuous interiors, decadent dishes and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Mirai
Every year this Japanese hotspot makes the Middle East’s 50 Best Restaurants list, and for good reason. Since 2002 it’s been a go-to for the island’s foodies, and this reputation shows no signs of fading. Enjoy succulent cuts from the robata grill, try myriad maki concoctions and creative cocktails at the buzzing bar.
Masso
The French Riviera meets the Amalfi Coast in this stylish Mediterranean restaurant in downtown Bahrain. Masso has been wowing diners since it opened back in 2011, offering Italian cuisine with simple-yet-flavourful dishes amid chic vibes.
Fusions
Award-winning chef Tala Bashmi may have departed but this world-famous restaurant is keeping her legacy alive through its modern menu of Bahraini fusion dishes. Over the decades, Fusions has been through several iterations in the much-beloved Gulf Hotel Bahrain – and it never disappoints.
Sushisamba
New York’s much-loved restaurant has now found a home in Bahrain atop the Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour, where it serves its unique Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine to the kingdom. Expect lively vibes and signature favourites, alongside exclusive dishes created just for Bahrain.
Discover more about Bahrain – the limitless island holiday destination.
