This untouched part of the country is home to the first Our Habitas property in the peninsula. Fernanda Langhammer and her family headed there to experience the brand’s ‘luxury for the soul’ concept, which she happily embraced.
When I previously thought of the word nature, for some reason, a lot of greenery would pop into my head. However, after visiting Our Habitas Ras Abrouq, I learned that a natural environment can be so much more. Located on the Arabian Gulf at the edge of the UNESCO-protected Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, I explored another type of nature, one that involves the beauty of the desert – golden sand, limestone formations meeting calm and transparent waters, kissed by the most amazing sunsets I have ever witnessed in my life. Nature lives there in a majestic form.
Just like every place offering a unique experience, you have to go on a little drive to get there. For me, leaving the buzz of the city behind for a feeling of proper time off is worth every journey. About an hour’s drive from Doha, Our Habitas Ras Abrouq is a great escape for those looking for relaxation but also a touch of magic.
FEELING PART OF THE FAMILY
The hotel blends effortlessly with the beauty of Qatar’s West Coast. It looks as if it always belonged there. The low constructions are covered in tents, giving you the feeling of desert camping in the most luxe way possible. The 48 villas, ranging from one to four bedrooms, come with one or more private plunge pools and spacious outdoor decks.
We were welcomed with big smiles and warmth by the team. We received a cold, refreshing towel and a drink and were escorted to the outside area facing the pool (one of the longest pools in the country) and the sea. In this scenario, Abhishikta entranced us in the Welcome Ritual where she invited us to be part of the Our Habitas family. She burned mastika for a moment of relaxation, letting the bad energy exit our bodies and minds. We received a bracelet bearing the hotel’s logo, imprinted on a wooden circle, with three arrows representing each of the owners and red straps in burgundy colour, the same as the Qatari flag. A gesture that made us feel really welcomed.
GLAMPING STYLE
The décor of the villas features soothing earthy tones, natural textures and local design elements, adding an elegant twist to the region’s cultural tapestry. The many carpets inside and outside, with their unique patterns, and Arabic baskets on the walls, give a sense of tradition, but at the same time add an edgy feel – a modern take on local customs.
Our one-bedroom Al Maha Villa had direct access to the beach, meaning uninterrupted views of the vast ocean. The bed was extremely comfortable and the bathroom had a freestanding tub, two sinks and a large shower that had access to the outdoor shower. The room had all the necessary amenities, with a living area with a sofa bed (by the way, the most comfortable sofa bed I have ever seen in a hotel anywhere in the world).
One aspect that I absolutely loved is that there is no TV anywhere – no unpleasant noises, just nature in its own grandeur. However, I have to say that the massive terrace outside, where the infinity plunge pool sits with refined furniture surrounding it, was my favourite aspect. A large rug and sofa with big clay pots seemed placed as if they had always been there. All colours match beautifully, creating no contrast with the scenery, just complementing the already stunning setup.
THINGS TO DO
We could have stayed in our villa the whole time; that wouldn’t have been a bad decision, however, there are many activities to join. One of the first things we did when we arrived was to request some bikes to move around the property and explore its spaces.
We also visited the watersports area and went kayaking, which was extremely enjoyable. The water is super calm and the transparent vessel made the trip even more fun.
The gym is filled with Technogym equipment, and the view you have when using the treadmill is breathtaking. Every day, we would receive a daily programme that offered yoga, singing bowls, a karak tea workshop and the unmissable sunset safari to Richard Serra’s East West monument. We joined the latter, and it was an experience we will cherish for the rest of our lives.
The Our Habitas Spa offers an array of treatments. The brand motto is to strengthen the connection to those around us and, to do so, we first need to reconnect with ourselves. I had the opportunity to embark on the Zekreet Oasis Experience, which included a Vibroacoustic Massage for cellular regeneration and an express facial using organic and locally sourced Torba products.
The 60-minute massage involves a seven-colour crystal mat that combines the frequency of PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) infrared light, a technology that recharges your cells through whole-body exposure. It promotes detoxification, enhances blood circulation, stimulates cell metabolism and reduces inflammation. Lower frequencies relax larger muscles, while higher frequencies revitalise smaller ones, delivering a holistic experience that promotes both physical ease and mental well-being.
The 30-minute facial was rejuvenating and used cool tools and red, blue and green light to reduce fine lines. It was a comprehensive treatment, and my therapist, Geeta, knew exactly what she was doing to deliver a tailored experience. I felt refreshed with my mental and physical well-being cared for.
NOURISHING FROM INSIDE
The culinary experience was a chapter apart. I have to confess that I am a foodie and good food brings me happiness. Qissa is the main restaurant; its décor blends Bedouin vibes with elegant furnishing. We had all our meals there. The breakfast offers a wide selection, but you can also order specific items such as smoothies and eggs prepared to your taste.
Chef Luke Borg has recently joined the Our Habitas Ras Abrouq family. He is from Malta, but has worked in many different locations and brings his culinary talent to this piece of paradise. The menu is an interesting combination of Mediterranean staples married with an Arabic twist. Chef Luke seems to be extremely comfortable in this scenario, and his dishes were unforgettable.
We tried a few recipes and some of them were spectacular, such as the Watermelon Salad made with roasted watermelon, feta cheese, radish, mint, olives, red onion and yuzu vinaigrette – it was like eating summer – super refreshing. The different textures and sweet, savoury and tangy notes created an explosion on our taste buds.
The Red Ceviche was another fresh pick, featuring confit prawns, red onion, cucumber, coriander, sweet potato, a creamy red pepper sauce, cashew and chilli, with an interesting twist: it was accompanied by papadum crisps. We believe the trick is also in the cut; everything was chopped into small pieces, creating the perfect bite.
We also had a comforting Red Coconut Curry with prawns, delivering balanced flavours, and an outstanding grilled tenderloin accompanied by roasted potatoes (the best ones I have probably ever had in my life) in a bed of muhammara sauce and chimichurri. The meat was cooked to perfection and the sauces complemented the dish beautifully.
If you want to eat a great meal and dine in a magical atmosphere, I highly recommend the drive from Doha just for that.
UNIQUE DETAILS
Our Habitas Ras Abrouq is beyond compare. The terrain to get to the property seems to come from a sci-fi movie. The limestone mesas (geological formations) give lunar vibes and a scenario that I have never experienced before.
The mule deer that live on the property give an extra charm to the place. They are harmless and come very close to say hello. You just have to be careful and not leave any food around because they are pretty cheeky.
And last but not least, the sunsets – they are absolutely mesmerising. They are a reminder of how wonderful the universe is and how grateful we should be.
Thank you, Our Habitas, for respecting nature and creating such an extraordinary haven of peace and beauty.
For more information or to make a reservation, please call Our Habitas Ras Abrouq on 4023 0666 or email reservations.rasabrouq@ourhabitas.com
@habitasrasabrouq