The diamond sparkle glistening off the pools at Playa Pacha is mesmerising. Transporting the spirit of Ibiza to the Arabian Gulf, the vivacious beach club is a magnet for bikini-clad sun worshipers who appreciate being entertained by world-renowned DJs. As I scan the bustling playground from my suite’s terrace – parasols rippling in the breeze and the sound of rosé corks popping – the lure of the illustrious club becomes apparent. Here it is glamorous but not pretentious, cool but not intimidating; and from the moment you sink into one of its poolside cabanas, you’ll want to stay forever. Champagne Sangria in hand.
I’m spending the weekend in the out-of-this-world Euphoria Suite, a three-bedroom haven complete with its own pool, spa treatment room, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, chef’s kitchen, bar, enormous entertaining space and several terraces – of which there are so many, I’ve lost count. Oh, and the suite has its own elevator floating between the lower and upper floor. This is uber-luxury on another level.
Equally impressive is the abode’s interior design. A harmonious interplay of tactile textures – from plush velvets and cosy wool bouclés to lavish marble and grainy woods – all of which are teamed with a tranquil colour palette of soft taupes and sumptuous creams, allowing the stunning view of the turquoise ocean to share the limelight, as it floods each room through floor-to-ceiling glass doors and windows. Bookshelves and coffee tables are elegantly adorned with an expertly curated collection of chic books and decorative objects, enhancing the inviting atmosphere. Here, one does not feel as though they are in a hotel; rather, the suite evokes the essence of a home – albeit a lavish abode far surpassing the dimensions of most contemporary urban apartments.
A distinguishing feature of the Euphoria Suite is undoubtedly its private treatment room. Although a visit to ReFIVE Spa – complete with its thermal pool, ice baths, hammam room, and cutting-edge gym – is essential, a true indulgence awaits with a holistic massage within the sanctuary of your suite, where post-treatment, one can effortlessly slip into the Jacuzzi for a serene soak.
Seven restaurants and bars offer culinary and mixology brilliance at FIVE LUXE. Tête-à-Tête stands as the hotel’s latest fine-dining establishment, where the elegance of French cuisine seamlessly intertwines with the opulence of Dubai, and attention to detail is at the heart of the gastronomic philosophy. Dishes range across land and sea, with pretty plates of twice-baked Arnold Bennett soufflé, Provençale chicken, and decadent crème brûlée served as edible works of art. For those with a penchant for plant-based cuisine, Tête-à-Tête offers a beautiful selection of bespoke creations, such as the delightful candied walnut salad, and the heavenly basil and courgette risotto, ensuring a memorable experience for every palate.
Dine al fresco, or beneath a canopy of lavender in the restaurant’s awe-inspiring interior – a stunning space featuring intimate seating areas and a jewel-box bar, where expert mixologists craft innovative concoctions, each worthy of acclaim.
Additionally, don’t miss Ronin, offering a refined and personalised journey through artfully inspired Japanese cuisine, in an elegant-yet-upbeat setting. Breakfast should be enjoyed at Cielo, beside the hotel’s private beach.
Those in the know, flock to Paradiso where the eclectic cocktail menu is inspired by magical surrealism, and each drink has a unique story told through imaginative ingredients and flamboyant aesthetics. Take a pew at the fairground-inspired bar to witness the wizardry. The Magic Wizard (served in a hat) is a must-try.
A place to see and be seen, FIVE LUXE has it all. A world-renowned beach club, long, languid lunches, delectable dinner spots, an epic spa, exquisite accommodation and exhilarating water sports. But actually, nothing beats rising from the master bedroom’s cloud-like king-size and diving straight into the suite’s private pool.
Luxejbr.fivehotelsandresorts.com
Images courtesy of FIVE LUXE
