Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa – the superb urban resort in the hear of Doha (REVIEW)

With a unique location amidst a green oasis in the heart of Doha (Qatar), Al Messila, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha, features no less than 30 private villas with private pool welcomes both local guests and international travellers. The beautifully manicured garden resemble a genuine par with gardens – there is a wide variety of vegetation, flowers and trees. For a moment you may likely even forget you are not on an exotic island.

Located 15 minutes from West Bay, the city center of Doha, Al Messila Resort & Spa is also only 10 km from the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar. The resort celebrates Doha as a destination with curious Destination Guides dedicated to share the city’s secrets with you and leave you with a expanded perspective on your visit to the pearl of the Middle East. During my stay, the highly trained Concierges at the hotel have been extremely helpful in organising a most comprehensive visit / tour of Doha.

The expansive outdoor swimming pool is one of the major highlights of Al Messila. The architects of the hotel have conceived a sophisticated pool, with small secluded spaces. There is also a wet bar enclosed within the pool where one can enjoy a wide selection of drinks. The hotel also features an indoor pool which is immersed in natural light through the glass ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows. Thanks to the team, the pool areas are impeccably serviced – and a sense of privacy and serenity is maintained. The spread-out  of the resort and its ample spaces ensure that the resort never feels busy or crowded.

Rooms and suites are among the largest in Doha, Qatar, besides the villas, there are many accommodations in the main building which boast a private balcony – some suites have large terraces. As this is a newly opened resort (2019), product is crisp fresh, predominantly spotless. The interior design concept is contemporary, with many plush elements which instil ultimate comfort. Bathrooms are large, with separate walk-in shower and bathtub. There is a generous wardrobe space in all accommodations.

The 14,000-square-meter Al Messila Spa proposes a wide range of treatments from skincare to rituals aimed at a certain objective such as weight loss or detox. The three worlds Oriental, Mystic, Mineral & Floral which are at the heart of the Spa boast state-of-the-art facilities including flotation tanks, oxygen rooms, Kneipp walks, hammams & salt rooms combined with unique treatments, products and protocols that are 100% exclusive to Al Messila Ladies Wellness Retreat. The wellness retreat is already attracting a solid number of locals – non-hotel guests, which is a ”certification” or ”validation”.

There are several dining venues at the hotel, with all restaurants and lounges led by Michelin Starred Executive Chef Pino Lavarra. You will love the Parisa Restaurant which oozes the authentic flavours of Persian cuisine served in the most stylish and contemporary setting. Katara Hospitality, owners of the property have been expanding the Parisa restaurant at other luxury hotels in Doha.

Executive Chef Pino Lavarra welcomes you to Veritas for an authentic Michelin-starred experience. Pick and choose from the selection of refined dishes or let our chefs guide you through a journey of Italian flavors. Do not miss the lavish breakfast at Deli Kitchen, the all day dining venue of the hotel. It is by far one of the best breakfast experiences among luxury hotels in Doha. For those seeking the most effortless experience, Wa’Ha Lounge (outdoors) is the place to be.

Located in the Health Center, the Food Lab is an exceptional venue built for all food enthusiasts and aspiring chefs, with 8 ‘MasterChef’ style counters, fully equipped with all the tools for interactive cooking classes led by Michelin-star Chef Pino Lavar. The Food Lab complements the other offerings related to nutrition / detox. I experienced a ritual during my stay and I was impressed both by the highly skilled and experienced therapist but also by the customer service at the Health Centre.

The hotel is also offering a range of elevated experiences with a private barbecue service at your villa – menus include hot and cold mezze along with meat and seafood and fine desserts. An indulging poolside barbecue is also offered by the pool, including a Private Chef service at your disposal. You will love the energetic vibes given by a DJ who is mixing daily at the main swimming pool area.

A big thank you to Giulia Mundula and Ziad Mallah

Oliver Petcu in Doha

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