Bask in Bahrain – Our 5-Star Stay at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay
When luxury meets Middle Eastern charm, you get an unforgettable escape – and that’s exactly what we discovered on our recent trip to the stunning Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay.
Flying in Style
Our journey began at Heathrow Airport, flying with Gulf Air on their Boeing 787 Dreamliner – and we were genuinely impressed from the moment we checked in. The Gulf Air lounge was sleek, well-stocked, and a relaxing place to unwind before take-off. But what really stood out was the business class cabin itself.
The seat size, pitch, and overall cabin layout were exceptional — offering a level of comfort and space that easily rivals, if not beats, many of the larger mainstream carriers. The Dreamliner’s modern design added to the experience, with mood lighting and extra-large windows giving it a bright, spacious feel. Add to that attentive service, a well-curated menu, and a smooth boarding experience, and it made for a very enjoyable start to the trip.
The flight time from London to Bahrain was just over 6 hours, making it a relatively short hop for such an exotic, sun-soaked destination.
For the price point, it’s genuinely one of the best value-for-money business class cabins we’ve experienced in a while – and we’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for an elevated yet accessible way to travel to the Middle East.
The Arrival
Warmth hits you the moment you touch down in Bahrain – not just the sunshine, but the hospitality. After landing, we were at the hotel in just 10 minutes, making the transfer one of the smoothest and quickest we’ve ever experienced.
From the moment we stepped into the lobby, we knew we were somewhere special. The space is incredibly striking, with an impossibly high ceiling and a calm, refined atmosphere brought to life by several large olive trees planted right in the heart of the lobby. It felt more like stepping into a modern art gallery than a hotel – and it set the perfect tone for the stay ahead.
The check-in was seamless, and before we knew it, we were in our room – a peaceful retreat with floor-to-ceiling views of both the sea and the Manama skyline.
Four Fun Facts About Four Seasons Bahrain Bay
One of the things that makes the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay so special is the attention to detail and storytelling woven into the resort’s design and atmosphere. Here are four fun facts that we absolutely loved discovering during our stay:
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The Olive Trees in the Lobby Are Over 200 Years Old
Yes, they’re real – kind of! The stunning olive trees in the lobby were originally over 200 years old, and have been mummified and preserved, with synthetic leaves and olives attached to give them new life. A beautiful blend of nature, art, and history. -
The Elevator Ceilings Are Made with Real Gold
You read that right. The ceilings in all of the elevators are adorned with real gold, adding a quiet sense of luxury even to the most everyday parts of your stay. -
The Hotel Is Designed in the Shape of an ‘H’
A subtle yet meaningful touch — the architecture of the Four Seasons building forms the letter H, in honour of King Hamad of Bahrain. -
The Beach Sand Is Imported from Saudi Arabia
The hotel’s beautiful private beach isn’t just for show — the real sand was imported from Saudi Arabia, giving it an ultra-soft feel underfoot that’s perfect for lounging or a barefoot stroll along Bahrain Bay.
Room with a View (and More)
Spacious, serene, and seriously stylish – our room had all the hallmarks of Four Seasons elegance. Think plush linens, a luxurious marble bathroom, high-end finishes, and that signature scent that tells you, you’ve arrived. One of our favourite moments was simply waking up to the golden sunrise over the bay, coffee in hand, watching the city come to life through panoramic windows.
Dining in Style
From world-class steak at CUT by Wolfgang Puck to the refined Bahraini flavours at Bahrain Bay Kitchen, every meal felt like a curated culinary experience.
A real highlight for us was dining at Byblos, the resort’s beachfront Lebanese restaurant. It was our first time trying authentic Lebanese cuisine – and we were completely won over. From grilled meats and spiced rice to fresh mezze and dips, every dish was packed with flavour. Add in the soft sea breeze and a beautifully ambient setting, and it became one of those unforgettable meals that lingers long after the last bite.
We ended the evening in the rooftop shisha lounge, where we relaxed under the stars – the perfect finish to a perfect day.
While the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay is available on a room-only basis, the hotel offers a wide variety of fantastic dining options to suit every taste. And if you’re looking to venture out, the city’s restaurant scene is easily accessible with affordable taxis and Ubers – making it simple to explore both local and international cuisine just minutes away from the resort.
Poolside Bliss & Spa Indulgence
The hotel’s private beach and multiple pool areas made it tempting to never leave the grounds. From peaceful swims in the adults-only area to laid-back time in the infinity pool, every corner felt designed for relaxation.
Although we visited as a couple, the resort is also incredibly family-friendly. There’s a dedicated children’s water park, a fun and engaging kids’ club, and even a charming ice cream station that was always a hit with younger guests. It’s the kind of place where kids are just as well cared for as the adults — making it a perfect balance of fun and tranquillity for families.
What truly elevated the experience, though, was the attention to detail. While relaxing by the pool, guests are given a complimentary cooler stocked with chilled bottled water, and there’s even a call buzzer at each lounger so you can order drinks or food with ease – no need to even get up. And speaking of food, the poolside dining was absolutely incredible – fresh, flavoursome, and beautifully presented, whether it was light bites or something more indulgent.
The Four Seasons Spa took things to the next level. After a full-body massage and time in the hydrotherapy pool, we felt genuinely recharged. It’s more than a spa – it’s a sanctuary.
Beyond the Hotel
While the Four Seasons offers everything you could need for the perfect escape, Bahrain itself is full of culture, charm, and contrast – and it all begins just steps from the resort.
Directly opposite the hotel, you’ll find a large shopping mall featuring high-street favourites, designer labels, and a buzzing food court. It’s easily accessible via a scenic water taxi ride from the hotel’s private marina – a unique and relaxed way to travel across Bahrain Bay.
But that’s just the start.
Bahrain’s rich pearl-diving heritage, modern waterfront developments, and fascinating museums make it a destination worth exploring beyond the beach. A wander through the traditional souks of Manama is a must – full of spices, gold, and local crafts that bring the culture to life.
For those looking to explore further afield, we highly recommend visiting Jadara – a remote island escape often referred to as the “Maldives of Bahrain.” With its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and total tranquillity, it offers a completely different side of the country that feels a world away from the city.
Whether you’re after shopping, history, nature, or a taste of local life, Bahrain offers a surprisingly diverse mix of experiences, all within easy reach of the comfort and calm of the Four Seasons.
Other Hotels We Recommend
While the Four Seasons Bahrain Bay is an exceptional choice, Bahrain is home to several other outstanding luxury hotels that we highly recommend. For those looking for alternative options, consider the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa, the iconic Ritz-Carlton Bahrain, or the stylish and centrally located Address Beach Resort Bahrain.
Each offers its own unique blend of luxury, location, and service — and we’re happy to help match you with the perfect fit based on your style of travel, whether you’re planning a romantic break, a family getaway, or a luxurious stopover in the Gulf.
When to Go: Best Time to Visit Bahrain
Bahrain enjoys sunshine almost year-round, but the best time to visit is between November and April, when temperatures are warm and comfortable, with low humidity.
We visited during the Easter break in April, which is peak season – and for good reason. The weather was hot but not overwhelming, perfect for poolside afternoons and warm evenings. From May through August, temperatures can soar into the 40s°C, so if you’re after that ideal blend of sunshine and comfort, March to April is a great time to go.
Why We’d Go Back (and You Should Too)
This wasn’t just a luxury break – it was a full experience. From the elegance of the resort to the ease of travel, incredible dining, family-friendly touches, and welcoming culture, Bahrain completely exceeded our expectations.
Looking to plan your own escape?
We’ve secured an exclusive Guru Travel offer including:
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Luxury couples’ breaks
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Family-friendly packages
- Upgraded flight options with Gulf Air
Why not check out our Instagram Highlights Reel for our trip to Bahrain here.
Links to our latest Bahrain offers are below for you to have a look at: