Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Banyan Tree Al Wadi Resort and Spa Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Banyan Tree Al Wadi Resort and Spa
Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates






Style: Classic Luxury. Built: 2010.

Amid stretches of desert sand in tranquil Wadi Khadeja, the protected enclave of the evergreen ghaf tree, lies the new exclusive resort of Banyan Tree Al Wadi.

Banyan Tree Al Wadi is the first desert resort in the United Arab Emirates to offer an all-pool villa concept, complete with 3,960 sqm of Asian-inspired hydrotherapy spa facilities, a dedicated nature reserve, a private beach club and an 18-hole championship golf course.

This oasis of indulgence spans over 100 hectares, of which 60 hectares are dedicated as a nature reserve – home to local desert wildlife such as Arabian gazelles, camels and oryxes, offering guests a unique opportunity to interact with and observe these gentle creatures up close.




Beach
Located within a 20-minute drive from the resort, the Beach Club offers a selection of recreational activities like snorkeling, water-skiing, wake-boarding and sailing for enjoyment in the shimmering turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. Schooner-chartering, fishing and scuba-diving trips can also be organised. Guests who prefer to lounge by the private beach may do so in comfort the Beach Club’s bar.
Child Programs
A dedicated Kids’ Club offers our young guests, aged 4 years and above, an array of exciting, fun and educational activities, such as bedtime stories under the stars and Wii gaming.
Spa Facility
The spa features 10 treatment pavilions, complemented by a state-of-the-art hydrothermal circuit with a hammam and vitality pool. Guests can experience a range of award-winning spa therapies delivered by the intuitive touch of skillful therapists to rejuvenate the senses. Banyan Tree Spa therapists undergo formal training at Banyan Tree Spa Academies in Indonesia, Thailand and China, ensuring that each spa experience is of a high level of consistency and quality that Banyan Tree Spa is renowned for.
Fine Dining on Site
Located off the resort’s main block, Al Waha, meaning Oasis in Arabic, serves popular international fare and local Arabic specialties. A spectacular display of modern yet Arabseque interior design, diners can choose to dine indoors where floor-to-ceiling windows sets the stage for metres-high sand dunes, or on the outdoor terrace where an Arabic grill and spit-roast holds court.
Fitness Center
A fully-equipped gymnasium boasting the latest in cardiovascular technology, as well as an aerobics studio and yoga room. Our gym and aerobics instructors will be able to offer tailor-made fitness programs. For a different setting, yoga classes at sunrise will also be offered out in the surrounding desert landscape.
Banquets & Meetings
The elegant Banyan Hall measuring 180 sqm can accommodate up to 140 persons, while the meeting rooms – Najah 1 & 2 has the flexibility to be partitioned into a space seating up to 60. Fully equipped with the latest audio visual equipment and LCD projectors, further secretarial support will be provided by specially-trained services associates.
Note Bene
The adventure starts at the Activity Centre! From educational classes in desert flora and fauna to interactions with traditional falcons and indigenous owls at the world-class falconry centre - The Mews, guests can participate in a multitude of activities, including horseback-riding, camel safaris and bike trails. An archery range is also on site for guests wishing to perfect their aim.
Golfing
Managed by Banyan Tree Al Wadi, the Al Hamra Golf Club is an 18-hole championship course located just 20 minutes from the resort. Designed by Peter Harradine, the golf course is built around a large open sea water lagoon with four interconnected sub lagoons. It measures 7,325 yards at full length, with five varying tee options, providing an inspirational session, whether you are an amateur or seasoned player.
Hotel Address

Banyan Tree Al Wadi Resort and Spa
Exit # 119 Emirates Road (311)
Al Mazraa
Ras Al Khaimah
United Arab Emirates



Location Summary
Ras Al Khaimah, literally meaning “Top of the Tent”, is the northern most emirate of the United Arab Emirates. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Al Hajjar Mountains and bordering the Sultanate of Oman, Ras Al Khaimah is renowned for its pristine natural attractions, dramatic red mountains and lush agriculture. Here, eco-explorers can seek adventure in activities such as falconry, camel riding, hiking and trekking, wadi (desert) safaris, or simply meander along rivers on a traditional Arabic sail boat. One of the most physically-demanding and spectacular hikes in the UAE, Wadi Ghalilah, also known as Stairway to Heaven can be found in Ras Al Khaimah.

With a heritage rich with historical sites dating back to 5,000 BC, Ras Al Khaimah is a archaeologist’s playground with its numerous forts and abandoned villages. The former residence of the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the fort is today home to the National Museum. Housing numerous collections of ancient pottery, fossils, shells and old coins, the museum is a must-visit for history buffs.
Directions to Hotel
The resort is a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport and a 20-minute drive from the vibrant Ras Al Khaimah city centre.