Review: Hilton RAK Resort and Spa

On the first leg of a mid-week holiday, we stayed at the hotel while it was offering its 'Moments with Hilton' price deal.

While our room rate would have put it well within a tight travel budget, we knew immediately that we were by no means staying in an economy hotel, as testified by the level of grandeur upon entering.

The lobby has wide open spaces and guests are presented with a refreshing sight of the sea.

On the down side, and while it did not take long to complete the registration, we couldn't help but notice that despite the few guests on arrival, there was hardly any concierge assistance to greet visitors at the entrance hall.

We checked-in without issue, into a deluxe room, fitted with a king-sized bed, two-seater sofa, coffee table and flat-screen TV. DVD players are also provided on request.

The balcony overlooks the water, as all rooms are sea-facing, and also the resort's network of multi-level swimming pools.

For guests who still want to get online for work, a wide desk is fitted into the room and broadband internet can also be accessed for Dhs80 for 24 hours. There are also nine food and beverage outlets on site

Pampering options

Those who are more interested in further spoiling can book the suite room, which boasts separate living and dining areas. Some also come with jacuzzi.

One can also opt for a more private option in the rows of chalets, with unobstructed sea views and manicured gardens, again some also offer a jacuzzi.

Spa facilities are located at the far end of the chalets, offering nine treatment rooms. There is no signature spa menu, but a Turkish Hamam bath may be worth a try for those in search of a unique experience.

Holiday activities

The resort has a serenity that any early riser can have to themselves. While the shoreline is over a kilometre long, the beach was less inviting than we had expected, not really boasting the clear white beach advertised in the pictures. To compensate, one can swim in salt water in of the pools.

There are also plenty of play areas, including a football field and two swimming pools for kids. Other activities, such as dhow cruises to Musandam can also be arranged through a local travel agent.

Accessible via Emirates Road in just over an hour from Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah somehow gave us a feeling of escape, away from the hectic city atmosphere of Dubai, and feels like a proper break from the rat race.

The centuries-old Dhayah Fort is just a 20-minute drive from the resort, with the Hajjar Mountains as its backdrop.

For anyone looking for a mini-break in the UAE, Hilton RAK Resort and Spa is a good fit as a comfortable hideaway at the northern tip of the emirates.

AME Info reviewed the Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort and Spa anonymously and paid its bill in full