Anantara opens new Oman resort
Following the opening of its first hotel in Oman, the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, back in November, Thai hospitality group Anantara has just opened the doors of its latest property in the Arabian Peninsula nation.
Located along a stretch of beach and a freshwater lagoon bordering the Unesco-listed Al Baleed archaeological site, the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara is in close proximity to a number of cultural attractions, including the city’s frankincense-rich wadis (valleys), souks (markets) and ancient ruins.
The resort has been designed to combine authentic local architecture with tropical surroundings – some 750 coconut palms and numerous water features frame the property’s walkways – and offers activities ranging from hiking and fishing to yoga.
A total of 136 guestrooms and villas are available at the resort with views of the ocean, lagoon or gardens. The resort’s 40 premier deluxe rooms feature hand-crafted furniture and textiles, while its eight one-bedroom villas and 88 one- and two-bedroom pool villas – the only such villas in Salalah to offer private swimming pools – come with separate living areas and personalised villa host services.
The Al Baleed Resort also includes an Anantara Spa combining Thai and Arabic influences. Salalah’s only hammam (Turkish bath) is part of the spa, which also offers treatments using local ingredients such as pomegranate, coconut and frankincense, and programmes ranging from weight management and detox to relaxation and revitalisation that run across three, five or seven days. A fitness centre, water sports centre, tennis court, beach volleyball court, infinity pool and a separate kids’ and teens’ club round out the resort’s leisure offerings.
F&B options at the resort include an all-day international dining restaurant, a Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese restaurant, and a Mediterranean-style beach bar. Events for up to 120 guests can also be held at the property’s boardroom and ballroom.
The opening of the two properties is part of a worldwide expansion by Anantara’s parent company The Minor Hotel Group, which aims to see the company have 230 active properties by 2021 across its Anantara, Tivoli, Avani, Oaks and Per Aquum brands.