Oman is the Middle East’s best-kept secret. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, home to sweeping deserts, dramatic mountain ranges, and pristine coastline. Foodies will delight in its Portuguese and African inspired Arab cuisine, and architecture buffs will be treated to cities dotted with fine mosques, fairy-tale palaces, and fantastically-detailed forts.
For the ultimate mix of thrill and tradition, the luxurious Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is a must. This five-star resort is one of the highest-rated in the Middle East and offers a prestigious getaway to the famed forts, souk markets, and ancient cities of Oman.
VIP ACCOMMODATIONS
Guest enjoy sprawling villas decorated with elegant architecture that celebrates Oman’s rich artistic culture. Private multi-story villas offer a prestigious retreat, offering views of the canyon and cliffs of the of the Saiq Plateau. Each villa comes with private temperature-controlled pools to soak in and private balconies where you can watch the sun rise and set over the mountains. A rain shower, full minibar, and state-of-the-art entertainment system are standard.
LIMITLESS ADVENTURE
The intrepid traveler will find no shortage of activities. Experience a luxury safari or driving tour, check out local forts on a cultural hike or mountain bike excursion, capture the moment with private outdoor photography or painting lessons, or craft local meals by working one-on-one with Anantara’s prestigious chef. For a more relaxing experience, the Anantara grounds contain a stunning cliffside infinity swimming pool, yoga studio, tennis courts, archery field, and a high-end fitness center, where guests can lead their own workout or work with professional trainers to take their workout to the next level.
STARGAZE
Anantara also is world-renowned for its spectacular stargazing. Located thousands of meters above sea level, free from light pollution, the resort is the perfect place to contemplate the stars. Famously, Princess Diana of Wales once graced the stargazing platform with her presence. Enjoy shisha or simply sit quietly beneath the canopy of stars.
LEARN TO FLY
Soar above the valley on Oman’s first zip line. Thrill-seekers can traverse the rock face, 2,000 meters above sea level, and finish the journey with an extraordinary adrenaline rush. The zip line is designed to the highest safety standards in the world and trained professionals are on hand to help with any pre-zipline jitters. As you fly above the canyon, you’ll see stunning views inaccessible to anyone else.
LUXURIOUS WELLNESS
Check out Anantara Spa’s hammam (Turkish bath) to indulge in traditional Arabian cleansing rituals or detox with a hot yoga session. Early risers should book a morning yoga session on the scenic lookout over the canyon to start the day off with serenity. The spa draws on the traditions of one of the oldest wellness cultures in the world, mixed with the special Thai influence of the Anantara brand. Guests will luxuriate in exotic elixirs, internationally-renowned staff, and time-proven techniques.
INTIMATE DINING
With three specially themed international, Arabic, and Italian restaurants, visitors have no shortage of fine dining options. Dishes are designed to inspire and delight. Experience authentic Omani cuisine, with seafood, plucked from the Sea of Oman, locally-sourced meat, and fresh market produce. Anantara’s VIP wine list makes every night special. Take your meal in a restaurant built into an ancient fort offering sweeping ‘canyon vistas’, or ‘dine al fresco’ on the stargazing platform.
GETTING THERE
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is located two hours from Muscat and six hours from Dubai. Anantara arranges private transfers. Guests who wish to drive to the resort must be aware that a 4×4 is necessary to reach the grounds.
Visit the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar website for more information.
Written by DLX contributor Beth Doane.
All images courtesy of Beth Doane.