Emirate’s star for desert adventure
For active travellers with families in tow Ras al-Khaimah is the ideal spot for an action-packed break
ADRENALINE junkies of all ages, take note! If you’re looking for action and adventure along with some much-needed winter sun, look no further than Ras al-Khaimah, the UAE’s best-kept secret that’s fast becoming the adventure capital of the Middle East.
This little-known Emirate just 90 minutes from the glittering skyscrapers of Dubai boasts terracotta deserts, golden sandy beaches, luxurious hotels and a refreshing return to nature.
For active travellers with families in tow it’s the ideal destination for an action-packed holiday where days are filled with adventure and evenings are spent relaxing in luxurious hotels with fabulous local food.
More than 7,000 years of history come alive in Ras al-Khaimah. Whether you’re exploring ancient forts or encountering centuries-old folklore from desert tribes, it’s a fascinating voyage of discovery and when it comes to thrills and spills, Ras al-Khaimah has it all.
Take the long and winding road through the Hajar mountains to the highest peak in the UAE by jeep and why not stop for some sand-boarding along the way? You might even glimpse the sea or neighbouring Oman from the highest mountains.
This year, thrill-seeking adventurers have been discovering the recently opened, and world’s largest, zip wire at Jebel Jais.
Whizzing down 1,900m of zip line at 80mph certainly promises to blow away the cobwebs and throughout the Hajar mountain range the Via Ferrata means you can experience the excitement of mountaineering by clipping on to the rails and rungs set into the mountains and following the trails. Ras al-Khaimah’s wild beauty is also home to camels, donkeys and wild cats as well as rare bird life, not to mention wadis and hot springs.
Leave the SUV behind and experience the stunning desert wilderness by horseback.
Saddle up a beautiful Arab horse at Al Wadi Equestrian Adventure Centre, where you can canter through nature reserves and sand dunes, spotting Arabian oryx and gazelle grazing peacefully.
Take the family to Ice Land Water Park and splash about in wave pools, brave vertigoinducing water slides and relax while the children enjoy the fantastic kids’ area where little ones can swim and play to their heart’s content. And after all this activity, relax back at your luxurious hotel.
Whether you choose glamorous beach-side accommodation or the stunning Ritz Carlton in the peace of the desert, Ras al-Khaimah has everything the active, adventurous family could desire.
INFORMATION: Experience Ras al-Khaimah’s hotels, resorts and fabulous activities by visiting ValueAddedTravel.co.uk