Domina Hotel & Resort Kings Lake

Comfortable well-presented and stylish Italian-owned accommodation which enjoys exclusive access to a small saltwater lake which is regularly refreshed by pumps from the sea, ensuring the presence of colourful fish; good for children (there is a shallow end) and less confident swimmers who want to snorkel but can't cope with the open sea.

Set in a delightful village-style complex, comprising this and 5 differently rated sister properties, the prestige, harem, Sultan, Aquamarine and Oasis, some of which share facilities.

An unusual feature is the complex runs on 'Domina' time which is an hour ahead of local time. The resort can accommodate up to 4,500 guests but the extensive and well-designed site ensures it rarely feels overcrowded and there is a friendly atmosphere.

Guests are issued with food credit cards depending on their board arrangement and use them in designated restaurants, but can pay to eat in those of the 10 restaurants that are not part of their deal, and 6 bars scattered around the resort (no cash, guests sign and pay at the end of their holiday).

Eateries include Nubian, Moroccan, Seafood, a steakhouse, Mediterranean and Italian. Bars on offer are an internet pub, beach and pool options, a casino, and a discotheque.

Suits a broad range of clientele, attracts many nationalities, and has something for all - guests need not go beyond the very secure walls.

Some unusual touches include the floating swimming pool at the end of a jetty, and loungers with built-in face shades.

Boasts 2 organic farms and utilises the produce in some of the restaurants. Shares a reception with sister property.

Charge for use of some facilities including gym and spa. Some timeshare and privately owned villas in the complex.

Exterior

A collection of attractive, local-style 2-storey buildings grouped around a salt-water lake, and a small, simple main building. All have balconies and either sea or lake views.

Property type: Hotel

Balcony/Terrace: All rooms

Storeys: 2

Exterior: Low-rise

Interior

A smart, cool, compact lobby has a patterned tiled floor, comfortable seating and a discreet bar. An attractive terrace enjoys outstanding sea views. Guests can eat in a choice of 5 restaurants as part of their package including the main buffet, Moroccan, Seafood and Egyptian.

Rooms: 78

Grounds

Beside a man-made coral bed salt-lake and edged by a long beach with loungers, parasols and a bar/restaurant, also has access to a seaside beach. Vast immaculately landscaped grounds with lawns, flowers and palm trees are tiered around a hillside leading down to the coastline.

There is a central main pool with a spacious terrace, plenty of sun-loungers and sunshades and a bar/snack bar.

A wide beach boasts a floating swimming pool and a couple of bars and restaurants, and provides sunbeds and shade along with a dive centre and watersports.

Small buses ferry guests around the property. A large independently-run spa offers 3 outdoor seawater jacuzzis, thalassotherapy and a tented gym overlooking the sea. A bazaar area has gift shops, a pharmacy and supermarket. Large covered theatre.

Location

Area Type: In secluded Coral Bay on the beachside down a long private access road off the main road, and occupying a gigantic hilly clifftop site shared with 6 sister properties. No unauthorised cars or taxis allowed past the gated security.

Nearest beach: on yds

Facilities