Hawar Resort by Mantis has opened on Bahrain's Hawar Island, complete with a Bear Grylls 'Adventure Zone' offering family-friendly survival courses. Olivia Palamountain reports

Hawar Resort by Mantis has opened on Bahrain’s UNESCO-recognised Hawar Island. The beachfront property features 104 rooms, including tented suites, beach villas and overwater villas with private pools.

Guests arrive via a 25-minute boat journey from the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion following a 45-minute drive from Bahrain International Airport.

"We are thrilled to open the doors of Hawar Resort by Mantis and invite guests to experience the unmatched beauty of Hawar Island. This resort reflects a deep respect for the environment and Bahrain's cultural heritage, offering an island retreat that is both luxurious and sustainable," says Andre Erasmus, general manager.The resort offers activities including camel riding, falconry and water sports, while a Bear Grylls "Adventure Zone", offering survival courses and outdoor challenges, will open in due course.

Five dining venues include the signature restaurant C-Salt, which will host seasonal pop-ups and celebrity chef appearances.

Environmental initiatives include the use of bamboo to replace single-use plastics and advanced conservation techniques to protect the island's ecosystem. The resort is particularly noted for its Socotra cormorant bird population.

According to the resort, the island’s rich biodiversity can be enjoyed year-round, with the cooler months from November to March offering the most pleasant conditions.

Different migratory bird species arrive at various times, making each season unique for birdwatching, while Formula One fans might be intrested to combine their stay with the Bahrain Grand Prix in April.

British Airways will increase its London Heathrow-Bahrain service from three times weekly to daily flights by winter 2025.

Rates start from £511 per night for standard rooms to £1,470 for overwater villas, including full board, taxes, boat transfers and select activities.