By Nourah Khan
Travel Writer
The Times Kuwait
Few places manage to blend Arabian elegance, French sophistication, and island serenity quite like Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. During my recent weekend stay, I had the opportunity to experience two of the resort’s most extraordinary accommodations: the Moroccan-style Opera Suite and one of its spectacular Overwater Villas, often dubbed the “Maldives of Bahrain.”
What unfolded was a journey through luxury, culture, and serenity — all within a single breathtaking resort.
My stay began in the Opera Suite, an opulent Moroccan-inspired haven that instantly transported me to North Africa. Every corner echoed the warmth and artistry of Moroccan design — vibrant tiles, carved wooden details, ornate lanterns, and rich textiles that bathed the room in golden hues.
Spanning 120 square meters, the suite features a lavish bedroom, an elegant living area, and all the modern comforts of a five-star escape — from a Bose sound system to a Nespresso coffee corner.
The highlight, however, was the private terrace with its own infinity pool, offering uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf. Whether it was a sunrise dip or an evening swim beneath the stars, the tranquility of that space made it easy to forget the world beyond. It was pure indulgence — a Moroccan oasis perched above the sea.
The following day, I transitioned to a completely different world — the resort’s Overwater Villa, a 360-square-meter masterpiece suspended above the turquoise sea. Connected by a short wooden pier, these villas redefine coastal luxury in the GCC, merging tropical island design with the warmth of Bahraini hospitality.
The villa boasted three spacious bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and panoramic sea views from nearly every angle. Outside, the private infinity pool seemed to blend seamlessly with the horizon, surrounded by plush loungers and a shaded dining area.
One of my favorite moments was waking up to a floating breakfast — a beautifully arranged tray gliding on the pool’s surface, complete with fresh juices, pastries, and coffee. Enjoying breakfast while the gentle waves rippled below and sunlight danced across the water was a surreal experience, the kind usually reserved for remote island resorts.
With a personal butler available 24/7, in-villa dining options, and complete privacy, this stay truly lived up to its “Maldives of Bahrain” reputation — an exclusive world of peace, luxury, and sea breeze.
Sofitel Bahrain is not only a haven for relaxation but also a paradise for food lovers. The resort is home to twelve distinctive restaurants, cafés, and lounges, each with its own character and cuisine — offering guests a world of culinary discovery without ever leaving the property.
From Saraya, the vibrant international buffet and breakfast favorite, to Fiamma, an elegant Italian dining experience, and Pashawat, where traditional Arabic flavors meet live oriental music — every venue tells a story.
The resort also features Yamaz, a Greek-inspired seaside restaurant perfect for sunset views, alongside several other specialty outlets and lounges serving gourmet coffee, pastries, seafood, and light bites throughout the day.
Whether craving Mediterranean freshness, Italian comfort, or Middle Eastern spice, guests can embark on a global gastronomic journey across twelve destinations of flavor within one luxurious resort.
Among the resort’s dining experiences, Yamaz stood out as a highlight. Arriving just before sunset, I was greeted by the sight of the sun dipping into the Gulf, painting the sky in soft shades of amber and rose.
The terrace, overlooking the water, radiated a carefree Greek spirit. A live band played upbeat bouzouki tunes, while the scent of olive oil and herbs filled the air. The combination of music, sea breeze, and sunset views created an atmosphere so immersive that I momentarily forgot I was in Bahrain.
Dining at Yamaz was not just a meal — it was an experience that stirred the senses and captured the heart.
Beyond its accommodations and restaurants, Sofitel Bahrain excels in wellness and recreation. The Thalassa Sea & Spa — the only one of its kind in the Middle East — offers unique seawater-based therapies, hydrotherapy pools, and a serene indoor seawater pool for ultimate rejuvenation.
The resort also features a private beach, kids’ club, fitness center, tennis and squash courts, and multiple outdoor pools. Whether for couples, families, or solo travelers, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. Families will especially appreciate the thoughtful touches — child-friendly menus, warm staff, and safe play areas that make every guest feel at home.
My weekend at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa felt like a journey across continents — Morocco’s mystique in the Opera Suite, the Maldives’ serenity in the Overwater Villa, and Greece’s vibrancy at Yamaz. Yet, everything was connected by the soul of Bahraini hospitality and the unmistakable elegance of the Sofitel brand.
It’s rare to find a resort that captures so many worlds in one place, but Sofitel Bahrain does so effortlessly. As I left, I carried with me not just memories of luxury, but a sense of calm — and a wish to return soon to this Arabian paradise by the sea.
