Well hidden behind a high wall overlooking the Arabian Gulf, The Cove Rotana Resort is a great escape from the hustle-bustle of busy Dubai. Situated in Ras al Khaimah, UAE’s fourth-largest emirate known mainly for its mountainous regions and desert environment; this sprawling upscale resort, an hour away from Dubai is surely a fresh change. Enter and you are charmingly greeted by two gatekeepers. Their pleasing smiles are warm and friendly. Drive through an ancient archway and the plush resort opens out from where one can enjoy panoramic views of the waterfront. Finish check-in formalities and a buggy is waiting to escort you to your room. Traditional Arabic-style villas are situated next to each other and are a delight to look at. Placed carefully along steep lanes, they gradually coil down to a lagoon and a long sandy beach-front which is a must-visit during sunset. While passing by, our driver enthusiastically points at the various restaurants, swimming pools and resort facilities.

Spread through the idyllic resort are 204 rooms and 78 one, two and three bedroom villas that are well-crafted and aesthetically designed to accommodate families or a group of friends and offer comforts that one would expect of a 5-star resort. Red-bricked dorm ceilings, Arabic-inspired art add a traditional touch to the modern designs but are yet welcoming and comforting. Each room is spacious and thoughtfully designed with big, cozy bathrooms and a balcony that offers stunning views of the other villas and the sea.

Their restaurants, Basilico, with a Mediterranean menu and Cinnamon, that offers the standard breakfast, lunch and dinner buffet are always busy. The former, which has recently introduced a GourMed brunch – the first of its kind in the Northern Emirate, is inspired by fresh herbs and sun-kissed flavors of the Mediterranean. Breakers – the beach bar and lounge, is but obviously a stunning place during sun down offering finger foods, sheesha and tropical cocktails. During the weekends, they spread out a sumptuous barbecue buffet with live music overlooking the water. Not just that, the resort also has two splendid pool bars and a relaxed lobby lounge cafe. But the highlight of it all is the beach spa. There’s nothing like getting a massage in an open cabana by the beach while listening to the soothing sounds of waves. The hotel also houses another spa and fitness center – Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club near the reception but the customized beach services are surely something one must not miss.

All in all, it’s a great place to relax, unwind and simply let yourself loose.