Alila Jabal Akhdar

The Alila Jabal Akhdar offers a breathtaking location, sitting 2,000-metres above sea level in the Hajar Mountains, offering incredible views of the valley below. At this altitude, you can expect a Mediterranean climate, perfect for hiking and exploring the rugged terrain. The hotel has been designed from stone and wood, so it blends into the landscape, with floor-to-ceiling windows to take advantage of the wonderful views. The hotel also takes its environmental responsibility seriously, using solar power and recycling waste water to irrigate the grounds. After a scenic ascent only manageable in a 4x4 vehicle, guests are greeted with coffee and dates by the welcoming staff and can relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The city of Nizwa is around a 90-minute drive away, while Muscat is a two to three-hour drive.

There are 78 suites with a comfortable king-size bed, Satellite TV, Wi-Fi, small sofa, separate bathtub
and shower, as well as an outdoor terrace or balcony for admiring the magnificent views. The suites are either located in the main building overlooking the pool, or in two-storey standalone buildings clustered throughout the grounds. There are also two private villas which have their own pools. The décor is modern and contemporary, but in keeping with the area's natural surroundings, with neutral tones, dark woods and Omani-style soft furnishings and accessories.

All-day dining, either inside or out on the terrace, is offered in the Juniper Restaurant which serves delicious and sophisticated local and international cuisine. For drinks, snacks and cocktails, head to the Rose Lounge, the perfect spot for watching the glorious sunsets. Cabanas and sun loungers are dotted around the impressive infinity-edged pool and there is also a small indoor pool and fitness centre. The Alila Spa offers local and Asian-inspired treatments and therapies.

The Alila offers an amazing array of activities, with plenty of options for adventure and learning more about local culture. There are some excellent treks around the resort, which can be done alone or accompanied by a local guide. Adrenaline-seekers are well catered for, with rock climbing, mountain biking and, for those feeling particularly brave, Via Ferrata.

When to go

The Jabal Akhdar region of the Hajar mountains reaches heights of 2,000 metres above sea level. This creates a much cooler climate than the rest of Oman, and temperatures here can be well over 10 degrees Celsius colder than in Muscat or Nizwa, and this area also experiences more rain. In winter it can actually get fairly cold, with temperatures dropping as low as 10 degrees Celsius during the day, and even colder in the evenings. April is a wonderful time to travel to this region, as this is when the rose terraces come into bloom and the air is filled with their beautiful fragrance.