WHERE TO STAY

ALILA JABAL AKHDAR

Perched 2,000 feet above sea level, Alila Jabal Akhdar’s resort is an excellent base from which to explore this extraordinary corner of Oman. Located a two-hour drive from Muscat International Airport, the hotel is only accessible by 4x4, but don’t worry if you aren’t up to the challenge: transfers are provided from the airport or from a checkpoint at the start of the mountain drive. Combining traditional Omani elements with a contemporary, eco-chic design, every effort has been made to use the raw materials of the natural landscape in the hotel’s construction, creating an exterior of stone and wood that blends almost seamlessly into the mountainside. The rooms themselves are minimalist, monochrome and wonderfully comfortable. We loved our crisp white bedding, sunny terrace overlooking a dramatic gorge and stone bathtub set by the window so you can soak up the mountain views while you bathe. Rooms start at Dhs1,750 a night. com