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This month we explore Fujairah’s only art-inspired resort, an idyllic hotel nestled amongst the valleys of the Al Hajar Mountains, along the coast of Dibba. From the moment you enter the hotel you are in awe of the stunning décor, surrounded by the natural beauty of ocean and mountains, this is a getaway like no other. A showcase of art from around the globe and the resort’s interior design is a juxtaposition of modern bohemian meets art-deco, infused with arabesque touches.
Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort is only a 45-minute drive from the Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and a 3.5 hour drive from Abu Dhabi, for those of you looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city this is an ideal option.
The resort offers a wide range of recreational activities like hiking, watersports, aquatic adventures, spa indulgences or just simply pool and beach lounging. The landscaped lawns and the great outdoors are the perfect setting for events. The resort’s artistic décor is also seen in the dining experiences, with a selection of restaurants offering a range of cuisines, fresh seafood from Dibba Bay to Italian and poolside lounges.
The exterior of the hotel is inspired by Moroccan pink buildings, unassuming and simple, giving away little of the luxury that lies inside. As we reach the hotel, the staff are warm and welcoming, from the valet to the reception. We are led to our room which has an ocean view and a delicious welcome platter for our arrival. Light and airy macarons, indulgent chocolates and a delectable ‘Edible Garden’ with vegetables and dip. This is in preparation of the wonderful dinner that awaits us in the evening.
The room is quite spacious and features a writing table along with a Nespresso machine and ample wardrobe space for the heavy travelers, complete with a shoe shining kit and ironing table. The décor of the room is in keeping with the gorgeous hotel, small arabesque lamps placed inside spaces in the wall stir the imagination to that of a traditional souk. The bathroom includes a shower area and tub, along with customized toiletries from Le Labo Fragrances New York, ensuring the continuous luxury on every front.
The resort offers a pool overlooking the bay and a stunning sunrise view for the early risers. With a range of water-sports available at the resort’s private beach, you can enjoy a great getaway without ever having to leave the hotel!
The Copper Lobster
We start our culinary journey with a delightful dinner at The Copper Lobster, which sources most of the seafood it serves locally, from Dibba Bay, even consulting with local seafood experts and fishermen for their daily produce. Chef Georgiy, who has previously trained at a 3 Michelin Starred restaurant in Italy, has created a stunning menu with local produce and great flavors. We start off with the Ceviche With A Twist, squid ink tapioca crackers and drops of passion fruit sauce, a delicious mix of citrus with a hint of sweetness and crunchy crackers. We then try the hot and cold appetizer, another one of the Chef’s creations – Fried Shrimp On A Bed Of Tuna Tartar, a must-try when visiting. The main course is Moroccan inspired, fused with seafood flavors to produce a simple yet delicious dish. Couscous with prawns, cuttlefish and other seafood, served in a tagine. We end on a sweet note with a Lemon Mousse Stuffed Cannoli, with a side of raspberry sorbet and cherry cream.
A great evening while listening to the distant sounds of the sea and live music for the night, The Copper Lobster is a must-visit restaurant, even possibly worth a drive just for the food. The fresh seafood and delectable flavors of the menu are mesmerizing and will keep you wanting to go back for more.
Canvas
As we enter through the iron-wrought gates into the all-day-dining restaurant for breakfast the next day, we discover more influences of the arabesque décor in a light and airy space with live cooking stations and a great buffet selection. Offering a selection of eats all day long, Canvas also hosts a new ‘Dupper’ concept every Thursday evening. The party starts at 7:30pm and goes late into the night, with a range of live cooking stations, fun beats, free-flowing beverages and a great vibe for all those looking for a fun-night out, starting at only AED 185.
Cafe Pronto
An open and airy European style bistro offering delectable Italian eats, our lunch at Cafe Pronto is a refreshing one. We start with the baguette topped with burrata cheese, tomatoes, onions and fried leek – A great start to the meal. We then try the Prawn Linguine, another Italian dish with seafood inspiration, a great mix of local and international ingredients. Well-seasoned, simple yet delicious, the linguine is a must-order. Next up is the Seafood Risotto, followed by the Slow Cooked Braised Beef Ribs served with mash potato – A fantastic main course. We end on a high note with Tiramisu in a jar, a light, fluffy, airy and creamy tiramisu with subtle coffee flavors. The service is efficient and attentive.
Arteasan
Framed archways and marble inlays create pathways to an intimately sized salon, offering light bites through the day and a pleasant afternoon tea with delectable desserts. You can spend a relaxing afternoon while enjoying the art and sipping on Jing tea concoctions, curated in house by the restaurant manager including refreshing mixes such as the dry fruit tea, rosebuds and ceylon.
IAMMAI – Pool Lounge
Inspired by the Arabic word for water, IAMMAI pool lounge is our dinner venue with great views of the bay, alongside a beautifully lit pool. They serve light bites through the day as well as hubbly-bubbly from sunset. We start with the Arabic mezze platter, with light falafels, kibbeh and spinach fatayer. Our mains include the mouth-watering lamb sliders with harissa, served with a side of chips. A classic favorite, highly recommended by the chef, is the lobster roll made with local catch, another great use of the local produce. The sticky toffee pudding is truly a sweet ending to a relaxed, leisurely dinner.
Although the restaurant does not open until later, the early risers can visit the poolside for a gorgeous view of the sunrise every morning.
Willow Stream Spa
We enter the spa and the fresh scent envelops us. Fairmont’s signature health and wellness brand; the award-winning Willow Stream Spa ensures we are in for a treat with their signature treatment.
Our massage therapists first provides us with tea and forms to fill out with regards to any medical conditions, pressure capacity and areas to be worked on, ensuring they are well informed before our treatment.
We walk through the rustic white decor in a hallway lined with Arabesque lamps into our treatment room to retreat into an hour of peace and tranquility. The Five Elements Aromatherapy massage provides the ultimate relaxing experience, with knowledgeable therapists, a peaceful setting and cross between customized essential oil infusions and skillful therapeutic techniques.
Post the massage we are led to a relaxation lounge, after which we headed towards the experience showers. With lights and music effects creating an enjoyable shower experience. The facilities include traditional hammam, sauna and steam rooms, however after the shower experience we relax on the hot beds, a perfect way to conclude our visit.
Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort, 09 204 1111
