– From US870+ per night (Palm Suite)
– The green surroundings
– Not for early birds with the pool and buggies to take you around the large resort not being available before 8am
You could almost forget you are in the desert as you gaze out at the 150 verdant acres surrounding the Desert Palm boutique resort. Set amidst four championship polo fields on the edge of Dubai the resort provides a quiet refuge from the city.
Our Palm Suite overlooking a polo field was large with a private bar and entertainment system including TV/DVD and Bang and Olufsen sound system (though sadly no instructions) and had an impressive, partially open bathroom with stand alone bath tub. Also available are Pool Villas surrounded by high walls for complete privacy but, lacking any greenery, the pool area feels quite bare.
The main building is well designed with some driftwood-style furniture and equine touches. Horse lovers will enjoy taking the a la carte breakfast by the infinity pool which overlooks a polo field where you may see some of the ponies taking early morning exercise. There is also a riding stable within the complex as well as a fully equipped gym, offering the chance to work up a sweat while enjoying a polo field view.
We ate dinner at Rare restaurant which was pricey but had fine food. However, we did not take to eating in near darkness on the outdoor terrace, barely able to see the costly items on our plate.
Overall we had a pleasant stay in this oasis despite some shortcomings.
