Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar: Your Mountain Escape

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort just opened in October 2016 and is first of the two new resorts under the Anantara brand that has unveiled in Oman. Located on the Saiq Plateau, it is 2,000 square metres above sea level, making it the highest five star resort in the Middle East and is amongst the tallest standing resorts in the world as well.

Staying true to Omani architecture, this resort pays homage to it in the smallest details, from the native damask roses to the modern Islamic architecture. Each detail is subtle enough for you to appreciate the thought that goes into the hotel. Local art and materials have been heavily used in order to pay homage to Omani heritage. Anantara has successfully managed to bridge their world class hospitality with Oman. 

Unless you pay a visit to Diana’s Point, you will not realise that you are in fact atop a cliff. The views from here are just astounding. The location is termed Diana’s point because Princess Diana graced the exact same spot years ago. The point can be booked for a private dining experience and forms part of the Italian restaurant aptly named Bella Vista. Next to the restaurant, you have a temperature controlled pool that overlooks the canyon. Avail of simply breath-taking views from that vantage point.

Splurge on getting a cliff pool villa if you’re a couple. They offer the utmost privacy and the most dazzling views. There are only ten cliff pool villas, which are a combination of 1,2 and 3 bedrooms. Each villa boasts a temperature controlled swimming pool that beckons on to the canyons; thereby making the most of the delightful views. Your own private piece of paradise.

The Anantara spa here is spectacular and unlike any I’ve been to under the brand so far. It takes a break away from the usual and introduces some luxurious therapies. It hosts a beautiful hammam for Moroccan and Turkish bath rituals. I highly recommend the Pomegranate Ritual, which uses locally grown pomegranates, pink Himalaya salt and frankincense, The relaxation area is tranquil and almost blissful. If you don’t quite feel like leaving your room, then ask a ‘Slumber guru’ to run up an invigorating bath and massage.

Offering the finest world flavours and traditional tastes from across the region, you are spolit for choice at the resort. Every Friday, the resort hosts a courtyard market and shisha as you star gaze at night. They also offer a cooking class where you pick the produce yourself from the neighbouring village. The terrain ensures great weather all year around and has some great opportunities for rock climbing, hiking and biking. I can’t wait to visit again! 

 Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort; 

 +968 25 21 80 00 www.jabal-akhdar.anantara.com

All images courtesy Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort