Eastern Mangroves by Anantara

Far from simply a desert region, Abu Dhabi is home to a variety of environments, including mangrove forests that lend themselves perfectly to exploration, and this hotel sits spectacularly right on their shores – a peaceful sanctuary that's still close to the city centre's attractions.

Rooms are fresh, bright and modern, many with private balconies and mangrove views. Go one up and stay in a Pool Suite for private plunge pools and spacious lounge areas, or, for true indulgence, opt for the Mangroves Suite that offers a rooftop terrace garden, private infinity pool with swim-up pool bar, multiple sun decks and a deep hot tub-style bathtub that looks across the mangrove forest.

As with many Abu Dhabi hotels, dining is a huge draw here. A spectacular choice of seven restaurants offer everything from casual mezzes and burgers in The Pool Deck to traditional Thai restaurant Pachaylen, where deep purple and gilded bronze features are the setting for such delights as spicy prawn curries and roasted duck, all superbly presented.

What Eastern Mangroves lacks in beach it more than makes up for with its wonderful infinity pool, workout room, yoga classes and bikes that are available for rent. After busy days, indulge in the spa with its 15 treatment rooms, Turkish hammam bathhouse, steam rooms and opulent lounge. Outside, there’s opportunities for paddle boarding and mangrove kayaking, either with a guided tour or solo, spotting turtles and herons along the way. For more serene delights, the high-end shopping and markets that Abu Dhabi is known for lie just a few miles away.