Alila Jabal Akhdar

This is how you create a satisfying synthesis of opposing qualities: carve a seriously polished glamour out of the rugged stones of Jabal Akhdar. It’s a design that complements the spectacular landscape yet contrasts it, in equal measure.

Oman is peppered with medieval forts and the Alila Jabal Akhdar reflects these local construction traditions. The traditional Omani masonry techniques are however augmented by contemporary architecture and design—and the result is a fascinating blend that reflects local history while catering to the modern sensibility.

This alluring design is a good fit for the—mandatory these days—eco-concerns. The resort is created in accordance with the LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) principles.

In harmony with the environment, preserving the extraordinary natural beauty of the region, Alila blends into the landscape.

Welcoming interiors

Comprising 78 suites and two Jabal Villas with private pools, the resort presides over the outdoor pool with striking views of the gorge and the Hajar mountain range.

Inside, references to the resort’s spectacular location include Omani craft and artifacts, selected with the aim of softening otherwise cool wood-and-stone interiors. Handmade pottery, copper ornaments, intricate mandoos chests and local-style fortified doors all follow the brief, while natural fibers and splashes of dazzling red add texture and color.

Richly colored rugs humanize the guest’s suites—but they are after all almost an extension of the landscape, reflecting the resort’s surroundings in a cool and calming manner—like in the Rose Lounge, which features uniquely structured local stones that are reminiscent of the rocky outdoors.

This lounge is one of the two offering food and beverage options, the other is the Juniper Restaurant. Other facilities include infinity and indoor pool, gym, meeting venues, and Spa Alila, which features treatments inspired by age-old regional and Asian traditions.

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Getting there:
Fly into Muscat International Airport (MCT) either through the national carrier of Oman Air (www.omanair.com) or the handful of Middle East operators such as Emirates (www.emirates.com), Etihad (www.etihad.com), and Qatar Airways (www.qatar-airways.com)

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in our opinion

In 2014 we anticipated Alila Jabal Akhdar's debut in the Middle East, and looking at its first year in operation we see that Alila managed to create a relaxing habitat for a luxury traveler.

From the swimming pool to the spacious suites that look out to mesmerizing views of the cliff and mountains, the resort entices with its singular vision of a true escape from urban life.

What we love

• Spectacular setting, on a clifftop overlooking a huge, canyon-like wadi, surrounded by mountains. We’ve been to Oman’s Hajar Mountains and can promise you: the landscapes surrounding the hotel are breathtaking. Alila Jabal Akhdar uses the dramatic beauty of this region to the greatest advantage while providing sumptuous comfort.
• This beautiful location is also blissfully tranquil, and each room features a terrace or balcony offering gorge and mountain views…
• …but arguably the best place from which to gape at the dramatic views has to be the heated infinity pool! Instant fave.
• Evident in the design are rich traditions and ethnic influences of Oman—it's is a great example of how contemporary design is fused with the regional traditions. The modern side of the design echoes a minimalist style;
• Bathrooms feature standing marble tubs and are provided with handmade juniper berry and rose soap, locally produced;
• Highly commendable are the hotel's sustainability/eco-credentials, for which it has already been winning awards.

What you should know

• The nearest airport is Muscat International, a two-and-a-half-hour drive away. The hotel can arrange one-way airport transfers in a 4WD for up to four people (the cost of transfers is not included);
• This is a relatively new hotel and evidently some things move slowly in Oman's bureaucracy: Alila Jabal Akhdar hasn't yet managed to secure its liquor license—so no alcohol is served at the hotel;
• The hotel has been designed by UK-based architecture firm Atkins, with interiors done by P49 Design from Thailand.