Sybaritic and serene, this 179-acre resort wraps around breathtaking Maundays Bay, the glittering sand rivaled only by the dramatic domed, white, Moorish-style villas, caring staff, and first-rate sports facilities. Enormous and private, guest rooms are furnished with Moroccan textiles and Brazilian hardwood furniture and have huge marble bathrooms, a few with tubs big enough for two. But the property could stand some maintenance and refurbishing. Private patios, balconies, or sunroofs render sea, sky, and sand part of the decor. The romantic atmosphere makes this resort popular for honeymoons and destination weddings. Ask about special golf packages if you're interested in playing nearby Temenos course. Facilities include a fitness center, an aqua-golf driving range, and an extensive water-sports pavilion. There are three room categories, but even the standard ("luxury") accommodations are well laid out, spacious, and comfortable. Flexible multibedroom private villas are beautifully furnished and include a 24-hour-a-day butler. A high point: each morning at the exact moment you specify, continental breakfast appears on your private verandah—the meal includes a basket of fresh-baked pastries, a platter of delicious fresh fruit, and piping-hot coffee. Room TVs are available by request only. At this writing, there was a possibility of the resort changing hands and possibly expanding. Pros: Lots of space to stretch out on miles of talcum-soft sand, warm service, romantic atmosphere (no kids). Cons: It's sometimes hard to find your room, as the units have strange names or numbers, bathrooms are dated, room TVs only by request.
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