Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar – Oman
With its three hundred and sixty degree view of the Al Hajar Mountains, perched on a high plateau, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is one of the highest resorts in the world, and surely, one of the most striking. Built fort-like on the mountain, it is an oasis promising wilderness and luxury in equal measure. All around, you are infused with Omani culture, with arches, lanterns and lattice work, whilst traditionally dressed staff offer the highest level of service.
From dawn til dusk, the colours changes against the surrounding rock and it’s impossible not to be in awe of your surroundings. Sophisticated dining, a cliff top infinity pool and a serene Spa make the days go by at a relaxed pace, but be sure to explore. These mountains are the gateway to some of Oman’s most impressive forts and historic sites, and adventures further into the desert.
At A Glance
Luxury Hotel
Why We Love It:
For its extraordinary views...Style:
Arabian luxury.Location:
2,000m high on the Saiq Plateau on Oman’s Green Mountain - just 2 hours drive by 4WD from Muscat.Rooms:
115 rooms & villas.Swimming:
In the hotel infinity swimming pool, spa pool or private villa plunge pools.Children:
Families are very welcome at the resort with clubs available for teens & younger children alike.Accessibility:
It is accessible. Speak to us for any particular requirements.Open From:
All year round.rooms
Each one of the eighty-two rooms has far reaching views over the canyon and the stark, wild beauty of the Al Hajar mountains, whilst the villas, with their private gardens and pools are havens of Arabian luxury. Decorated and furnished in earthy tones and traditional Omani decorative detail, they are all generously spacious, with the focus most definitely on the captivating view outside.
Comfortable daybeds furnish the terraces and balconies – or “majilis” as they are known in the Middle East – the perfect spot to watch the rising or setting of the sun.
food
The Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort offers a mouthwatering mix of local and international cuisine. The subtle flavours of Oman and the Middle East are celebrated in the signature Al Qalaa restaurant, using traditional recipes and locally produced and sourced ingredients. At Al Maisan, you’ll find Indian and south east Asian dishes, in spacious surroundings and on the terrace overlooking the canyon.
The poolside Bella Vista has a fine range of Italian dishes, including excellent wood fired pizzas, and all the restaurants have a well-curated wine list. There are light dishes available all day at the relaxed Al Baha, and in the evening, the Al Burj Lounge – a Moroccan influenced bar – is an intimate and sophisticated bar for cocktails. Private dining is available, either on your own terrace or at a choice of special locations for an evening under the stars.
activities
You won’t be surprised that the Spa at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is sublime. This is where to come for a truly memorable hammam experience, where some of the most ancient therapeutic rituals are employed. There’s a salt infused steam room; aroma sauna and relaxation bed chambers – no stay here should be without at least one visit. Or book a morning yoga session atop a scenic lookout. There’s a tennis court and fitness centre and an impressive large cliff edge infinity pool.
As night falls, head for the Fort stargazing platform – the night sky here is simply enormous and truly spellbinding. If you’re after a bit of thrill seeking, try the Jabal Activity Wall – a mix of via ferrata, abseiling and zip lines. You can also take archery lessons or learn how to cook local dishes under the guidance of a chef, blending Middle Eastern spices. Oman is a land for exploring, and from the resort you can take a guided walk with a mountain “guru” around surrounding villages, or explore by bike. We definitely recommend a trip to the ancient city of Nizwa – for centuries known as the Pearl of Islam – with its huge fort, mosque and souk, and four wheel drive excursions out into the desert.
family
Families are extended a very warm welcome at the resort. There are clubs for kids and teens here, and children’s menus in the restaurants. The resort has a shady pool specifically for its younger guests and there is babysitting available.
Location
Saiq Plateau, Oman
2,000m high on the Saiq Plateau on Oman’s Green Mountain - just 2 hours drive by 4WD from Muscat & 30 minutes from historic Nizwa.
