Banana Island Resort Doha By Anantara – Resort Review

Be prepared to set sail to this luxury resort that provides a slice of the Maldives in the Persian Gulf! The Banana Island Resort by Anantara is a true gem and like no other in Qatar. From its very own adventure park which includes ziplining across the sea, to the first overwater villas in Doha, this resort is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Location

Accessible via a complimentary 25-minute scenic boat ride from the mainland, you’ll find yourself transported to the beautiful Banana Island Resort by Anantara. It feels like a gentle transition away from the pace of Doha, where the island is perfectly secluded, yet close enough that the city’s glistening skyline still feels within reach. With frequent daily transfers to and from the resort, you can easily explore all that Doha has to offer. Even the wait is thoughtfully considered, where the lounge is well-equipped with beverages and light refreshments to keep you satiated.

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My Room

I stayed in the Premier Sea View Room for two nights which came with a beautiful view of Doha’s skyline framed by the shimmering sea. With floor-to-ceiling windows allowing natural light to flood the space, it was the perfect setting to enjoy the sunset glow over the water before indulging in the dining delights on offer at one of the resort’s restaurants.

My room felt comfortably spacious, and was adorned with a neutral Arabian palette that was stylish without feeling overly themed. Soft furnishings paired with thoughtful lighting made it easy to settle in and feel immediately at ease, whilst the private balcony added a quiet retreat for my morning coffee. But the crème de la crème was the deep soaking tub in the bathroom, ideal for melting away a day spent lounging on the private beach.

The bathroom was also complemented by a large walk-in shower and a separate walk-in wardrobe, making the space feel as practical as it was spacious. While the Arabian theme continued subtly with mosaic beige tiles, the room still conveyed a sense of modern luxury, thoughtfully adapted to the local surroundings. Combined with plush towels and carefully considered amenities, it felt as if every detail had been designed with comfort in mind.

One of the standout features of Banana Island Resort by Anantara, setting it apart from other Doha resorts, is the overwater villas. The experience is reminiscent of the Maldives, but in the Persian Gulf. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable option for a special occasion, with secluded luxury taken to a whole new level here.

Culinary Journeys

With a variety of restaurants to choose from, each offering its own distinct cuisine, you’re truly spoilt for choice. No trip to Doha would be complete without sampling local delicacies, and Al Nahham delivered beautifully. During my stay, the restaurant was debuting its buffet and live stations concept, which was executed to perfection. The hot and cold mezzes included some of my favourites; creamy hummus and smoky baba ganoush paired with a fresh fattoush salad. However, the added touch of the live grill station, which differentiated from a typical buffet set-up, was a delight and offered everything from shish taouk to lamb kebabs to freshly caught fish, all cooked to order.

For a more European flair, Riva restaurant is the island’s go-to spot. The restaurant serves contemporary Italian cuisine, from classic pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, all designed with sharing in mind. Portions are generous, encouraging you to linger a little longer and sample more of what’s on offer. To round out the dining experience, a visit to Q Lounge and Restaurant is not to be missed. This poolside restaurant offers sweeping views across the glistening sea towards Doha’s skyline, making it a particularly atmospheric spot as the sun begins to set. They have some themed nights showcasing a range of global cuisines, while the à la carte menu focuses on Indian and Mediterranean flavours.

If there is one culinary delight you need to indulge in during your stay it’s the weekend Spice Route Brunch. This is a vibrant affair that brings together live cooking stations inspired by cuisines from around the world. The sushi was particularly impressive, beautifully fresh, and prepared in style, while the paella station offered a comforting, warm contrast. Everything felt thoughtfully curated, with premium ingredients used reflecting the authenticity of each cuisine on show.

Moments in Between

Doha offers plenty to explore, from the vibrant artwork of the Mina District to the National Museum of Qatar and the cultural offerings of Katara Village. But for those days when you’d rather stay on the island, there are plenty of ways to fill your time, or you can simply do nothing at all whilst getting lost in an engaging book.

The standout activity, and another unique feature of this resort which even draws daytime visitors, is the on-site adventure park. Its zipline soars over the sea and is a particularly magical experience at sunset, one which I thoroughly enjoyed. There’s also the climbing wall and obstacle course, which aren’t for the faint-hearted but cater to a range of skill levels.

For something a little less exhilarating, the private beach and pool provide the perfect setting to relax and unwind. Alternatively, the resort’s spa offers a selection of massages and treatments, allowing you to fully embrace the art of leisure.

Final thoughts

For a truly unique experience, and something refreshingly different from your usual city hotels, Banana Island Resort by Anantara is sure to exceed your expectations. From its prime island location, offering a genuine beach resort experience while remaining close to the mainland, to its impressive range of facilities including the on-site adventure park, this is a resort designed to cater to everyone.

The island resort strikes an impressive balance between laid-back luxury and engaging activity. It’s the kind of place where days can be as full or as slow as you choose, and one that will linger in your memory long after you’ve returned home it certainly has for me.

TLE Top Tips

1. Book the adventure park experience and time it to do ziplining at sunset for an incredible view.
2. Stay over a weekend to enjoy the Spice Route brunch, which features live food stations to showcase cuisines from around the world.