Alila Jabal Akhdar

“Lets go walking on the clouds!” I effectively drew my 9-year-old daughter Aiyana out of her bed at the Alila Jabal Akhdar; a blissfully remote resort that clung to the cliff edge at a dizzying 2980 meters high on the wildest terrain in Oman. Mornings at the Jabal Al Akhdar or “Green Mountain” were enthralling with the Al Hajar mountain range being shrouded within the mist. As the sunlight pieced the clouds, the veil of mist gently lifted off the face of the mountain, revealing a magnificent gorge, which is often likened to the Grand Canyon. 

Although the untouched beauty of the rugged landscape made us feel like we were a world away, getting to Alila Jabal Akhdar was surprisingly swift. A 2-hour four-wheel drive from Muscat drove us past dramatic mountain ranges soaring skywards with furrowed canyons and deep valleys. 

The resort’s stylish architecture and contemporary design concept does not eschew its commitment to an eco-friendly future. It is constructed with materials fashioned from local stones and wood to blend harmoniously to its surroundings. An infinity pool overlooks the spectacular canyon, mirroring the sky and is lined on either side with spacious gazebos for unadulterated relaxation. The resort also houses an indoor heated pool, which established itself as a firm favourite with the children with its cozy lit atmosphere. 

The resort has 6 types of suites and villas to choose from. Our horizon view suite was an alluring blend of authentic Omani traditional and luxurious contemporary and opened into an outdoor terrace with spectacular views. 

The area is a haven for adventure travellers with treks for all levels of fitness with some tracks leading through picturesque villages dotted with stone houses built into the rock. In the months of March, April and May, the slopes would be coloured pink and air filled with the fragrance of roses. The roses are harvested annually and distilled to make Omani rose water, a staple in every Omani household. 

Due to its unique climate, Jabal Akhdar produces a variety of fruits that are considered among the finest in the world including pomegranates, figs, grapes, plums and apricots. The all-day dining “Juniper Restaurant” masterfully incorporated the local produce in its creative menu of local favourites and international cuisine to delight our taste buds.

In the evening, the spacious lobby transforms to an oasis of calm with an enormous, inviting fireplace and a shisha corner covered with comfy cushions on the floor. After dinner, the children proceeded to the library that was stocked with games and the adults ended the day at the Rose Lounge with a rose martini nightcap and a sense of bliss.

For more information: 
https://www.mrandmrssmith.com/luxury-hotels/alila-jabal-akhdar
Words: Iroshini Chua
Photography: Iroshini Chua