Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain Honoured at the Prix Versailles 2024

Raffles Al Areen Palace in Bahrain has been nominated as one of the 16 new hotels recognised under the 2024 World's Most Beautiful Hotels category by the prestigious Prix Versailles. 

Officially opened in December 2023, Al Areen Palace is the latest addition to Raffles Hospitality’s brand, nestled in the village of Zallaq on the West Coast of Bahrain. Known for its worlds of wonder and inspiration, Raffles Hospitality was established in 1887 and has been creating unique experiences inspired by ancient stories from the Middle and Far East. 

The Prix Versailles initiative recognizes the 'World’s Most Beautiful' achievements, highlighting the primary role of the laureates in enhancing and improving the living environment. Each year, these awards set precedents and serve as testimonies to exceptional architecture and design. 

Often called 'Palace of the Secret Garden', Raffles Al Areen Palace is the only all-villa property in the Kingdom of Bahrain, featuring 78 spacious, private villas. Reigning in tranquillity, it comprises a collection of mysterious hideaways that prioritise privacy, set amidst lush green gardens just outside the Al Areen Wildlife Nature Reserve - a sanctuary for rare birds, animals and plants. 

Designed to be a haven of peace with light, space, and water woven throughout, Raffles Al Areen Palace fuses modern structures with timeless regional architectural forms. Its pristine white façade, adorned with arcaded terraces, evokes an angelic, fairytale ambiance. 

Ceremonious artisan-made wooden doors separate the spaces and guard the entrance to thoughtfully landscaped private gardens, adding to the overall charm and authenticity of the experience. They blend seamlessly with the rhythmic palm trees, exotic flowers, and fountains. 

Secret gardens are meticulously cultivated by the resident botanist, and the home-grown herbs and produce are used by the chefs for relaxed all-day dining, inspired by Bahrain’s maritime heritage. Enriched by curated cuisine, the dining experience evokes the warm, spicy aromas of the Middle East and the sophisticated flavours of Ancient Arabia. 

This mythical oasis is a haven for travellers, offering award-winning wellness rituals that blend scientific advancements with ancient cultural wisdom. Complemented by personalised service, including an attentive butler in every room ready to assist with any request, big or small, it represents the pinnacle of warm Arab hospitality. 

The hotel celebrates Arab hospitality with refined architecture and an elegant, bold décor in which traditional Middle Eastern design meets contemporary aesthetics. 

Photography Credit: Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain