Why visit … because there’s something magical about Oman. Whenever I think of the sultanate, punctuating the images of sunsets, mountains and souks, my head spins with the heady scent of Frankincense.

   

When … you feel the need to see generous sunsets and sip Bloody Mary’s overlooking a sweeping vistas stretching beyond the horizon a mere 2,000 metres above sea level it’s time to head out past Muscat and upwards to the mountains and beyond.

  

Why not ...join Alila Jabal Akhdar’s Leisure Concierge on a climb to discover the local ‘mirage’.  Sarab, an abandoned village is just a few miles from the resort and is the original home of the local community, many of whom work for Alila or are producers for the resort.  Head off after breakfast before it gets too hot, and take a packed lunch.

The Mirage in the Mountains trip is the perfect way to learn about the natural wadi system which provides sustenance for the apricot and walnut trees.  You will likely encounter hardy mountain goats and we even came across a donkey and her foal balanced precariously on mountain slopes. Other trips include the World Above the Mountains  which is also part of Alila’s mission to help guests  discover the destination through its traditions, its cuisine, its environment, the roots of its people and their daily rituals.

 

Stay at … Alila Jabal Akhdar of course.  Meaning Green Mountain, Jabal Akhdar is nestled in the Al Hajar mountain range and consists of low-slung Omani style buildings wrapped against the cliff side.

Eat .. at the edge of the mountain …. the 1001 star-lit dinner experience is dining at its best.  Perfect for friends and family. It is too beautiful to share with only one person. Invite everyone in the village!

Take off .. as quickly as you can before the crowds discover it!   Flights to Muscat from Abu Dhabi are six times daily, or from London twice daily.