Overview

Perched 2,000 metres above sea level in the Al Hajar Mountains, Alila Jabal Akhdar is a haven for adventure travellers, nature lovers and those seeking a retreat from the desert heat. Located in the central section of the Al Hajar Mountains, Alila Jabal Akhdar offers a gateway to the area’s incredible history, culture and nature. This rugged, mountainous region is one of Oman’s most compelling tourist destinations thanks to stunning landscapes that include Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain, and Jabal Akhdar, meaning the "Green Mountain” in Arabic, considered the fruit bowl of Oman.

Far from the bustle of modern life, the region offers an escape to solitude, nature, fresh air and the most amazing panoramic views. The resort is surrounded by mountains, small hamlets, old, uninhabited villages, caves and canyons, as well as countless small roads connecting to new valleys and views. The resort lies close to the Saiq (pronounced ‘Sirq’) Plateau, an extensive upland plateau surrounded by craggy summits and steep gorges. The Mediterranean climate here makes it ideal for the cultivation of many types of fruits. The area around the resort is particularly renowned for growing walnuts, pomegranates and Oman’s famed damask roses, which bloom from March to May, covering the mountain side in swathes of pink.

Take a walk through the rose terraces for an unforgettable experience. The roses harvested each year are used to make Omani rose water, a staple in every Omani household used as a culinary flavouring, fragrance and medicinal remedy. The area is also a treasure for history and culture enthusiasts, who can explore the many heritage sites in the cities of Nizwa, Bahla, Ebri and more, such as Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle and UNESCO-protected Bahla Fort. At Alila Jabal Akhdar, you are well placed to explore one of the most fascinating regions in the world, engage in an endless variety of activities, and experience the warm hospitality of the Omani people.

Inspired by ancient forts, traditional Omani construction techniques using local stones are combined with contemporary architecture to create a uniquely relaxing environment, from the pool to the spacious suites that look out to mesmerising views of the cliff and mountains. Committed to a sustainable future, this landmark Jabal Akhdar hotel is constructed according to LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) principles, and is designed in harmony with the environment, preserving the extraordinary natural beauty of the region. Within the stone exteriors, the resort’s unique expression of minimalist style is infused with warmth and colours that reflect the region’s ethnic influence. Authentic elements of Omani design decorate the interiors, such as copper ornaments, and handmade pottery from Bahla, for which the town is famed.

Known to be one of the most sought-after Oman luxury resorts, the signature features of this hotel include fort-like doors crafted from solid wood; the iconic rose pattern that adorns the lobby, inspired by the damask roses that grow in this region; and a large fireplace in the lobby that warms guests in the chillier months after an invigorating day out in the mountains. The resort grounds also feature aflaj water systems, mirroring Oman’s traditional system of irrigation channels.

Accommodation

Mountain View Suite

The 52sqm Mountain View Suites, housed on the upper level of the main hotel building, are perfect mountain hideaways offering supreme comfort and spectacular views. Designed to inspire relaxation, the suites combine contemporary décor with local accents, and modern amenities including a freestanding bathtub, separate rain shower, Wi-Fi and flatscreen TV. Take in the full majesty of the surroundings from a private balcony offering the most dramatic views over the pool and down into the gorge.

Horizon View Suite

Located at ground level, the 52sqm Horizon View Suites offer ease of access to the resort facilities and awe-inspiring vistas of Jabal Akhdar’s majestic peaks. Enjoy the contemporary comforts of these beautiful mountain retreats that include a freestanding bathtub, separate rain shower, Wi-Fi and flatscreen TV. Delight in the careful attention to detail in all the amenities. Plan the next day's adventures seated outdoors on your private terrace.

Ridge View Suite

Located on the first floor, the 52sqm Ridge View Suites offer a haven of blissful tranquillity, immersing you in superior comfort and beautiful furnishings that ensure a relaxing stay. Contemporary design and stylish décor graced with local accents meet with modern, hi-tech amenities and signature luxuries such as a freestanding marble bathtub and separate rain shower. Step out onto the large private balcony where the rugged beauty of the landscape and views down into the gorge make for stunning pictures and unforgettable memories.

Jabal Terrace

For those wishing to immerse themselves in the wonder of the great outdoors, the 104sqm Jabal Terrace suites located on the first floor are a perfect choice. Each suite features a spacious indoor living area furnished in contemporary style with touches of local inspiration and a host of creature comforts. The suite opens onto an equally large outdoor terrace where you can fully appreciate the majesty and mystery of this incredible destination, and connect with nature under the vast night sky, enjoying sunsets and stargazing.

Loft Suite

Housed in the main hotel building, in close proximity to the resort facilities, the Loft Suites offer 104sqm of open-plan space spread over two storeys, with spacious living area and bathroom facilities including a shower downstairs, and bedroom with en-suite bathroom upstairs. Enjoy a truly relaxing stay in this haven far from the bustle of modern life, complete with every comfort and convenience, framed by mountain views from your loft bedroom. An ideal suite for families.

Jabal Villa

Sprawled over 361sqm, the resort’s two exclusive Jabal Villas combine an indulgence of indoor and outdoor space with the most amazing views you can imagine. While appreciating the privacy that surrounds each villa, revel in the sense of openness throughout the villas’ two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, large living room, dining room, kitchenette, private terrace and pool. Discover new depths of relaxation in the master bathroom, housing a steam room, shower, oversized bathtub and attached Jacuzzi. Beautifully furnished throughout for a stylish at-home feel, these luxurious villas offer all the pleasures of the ultimate mountain retreat. Ideal for travelling with friends or family.

Dining

Named after the juniper trees that grow in the highlands of Oman, Juniper Restaurant satisfies all your culinary cravings, from breakfast through to dinner. As you feast your eyes on the mountain horizon, savour an international menu inspired by the golden age of Arabic cuisine, influenced by trade routes that stretched from the Middle East to the Mediterranean region. Allow the culinary team to wow you with a rich variety of flavours using fresh and seasonal local produce crafted to gastronomic perfection.

Spa

Featuring seven treatment and changing rooms, a Vichy shower room and Jacuzzis, Spa Alila is a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to pampering you from head to toe, restoring a sense of total well-being. Step back in time in the steam room, the air filled with a mist of heady, earthy and cleansing oils, grounded in frankincense and juniper berry, reminiscent of ancient Oman. Enjoy the pure, gentle and 100% natural Juniper Berry and Rose Handmade Soap, a signature feature throughout the resort and guest rooms.

Things To Do

The destination is at the heart of The Alila Experience…and is yours to explore with the guidance of the Alila Leisure Concierge team. Enhance your holiday with lifestyle activities tailored to individual interests across five themes – Cultural Learning (love of history and artisanship), Conscious Living (wellness, environs and community), Active Spirits (outdoor sporting pursuits), Culinary Arts (cooking school and food trails) and Couple Celebration. From trekking, canyon walks, cave exploration and other outdoor pursuits, to discovering the region's cultural and culinary traditions, embark on bespoke experiences for a truly memorable holiday.

Cave Adventure 

Not for the fainthearted, this adventure dares you to step out onto 20-metre-high ropes and traverse a cave mouth – a thrilling experience you will never forget!

Hiking and Trekking

Experience the best of the region with a visit to the agricultural village of Al Ayn, and the picturesque abandoned village of Wadi Bani Habib. Gaze across spectacular scenery of terraced farms and valleys, and follow trails through the wadi and farmlands growing walnut trees and pomegranate bushes.

Don’t miss the opportunity to try a slightly more challenging walk that incorporates a section of Via Ferrata (Italian for ‘iron path’). Following a short safety briefing, get into your harness and head to the start point, a short walk just beyond the resort and over the stile. The Via Ferrata starts just below the ridge and takes you along the mountain face and down a fairly steep section of rock. Once through the Via Ferrata, follow the path steadily down into the wadi, passing some of the most spectacular mountain scenery to the village of AlKhutaymi, hidden in a cave in the wadi floor. Continue another 15 minutes to discover the best swimming pool in the Green Mountain, where you can enjoy a refreshing dip before hiking back.

Butterfly Trail

The chance to discover a little history, find a few fossils, and spot butterflies and birds… Alila Jabal Akhdar’s Butterfly Trail offers an adventure for children that they, and their parents, just can’t resist! With scavenger map in hand, young explorers will be taken on a journey of discovery, learning new facts about the mountain and its inhabitants, and engaging in an array of fun activities along the way. Just pick up the butterfly trail markers outside the lobby. You can enjoy an almost 3km walk without leaving the resort. On your expedition, look out for geological markers of the rising and falling of seas, and see the results of how the slow but persistent push of the continents has shaped the beautiful vistas of the Green Mountain.

Stargazing

Alila Jabal Akhdar offers some of the clearest nighttime views of the stars, moon and planets, making it a paradise for celestial enthusiasts and avid stargazers. Learn about the galaxies, nebula, clusters and supernova remnants, and see the treasures of the night sky. You will also be shown how to set up a telescope correctly before peeking through the lens and then photographing some of these magnificent sights. 

From Islamic scholars to astronauts, learn about ancient stories of the night sky, the different constellations, and how people have found their way in the universe. Spend time with your astral guide observing the moon, planets, stars and galaxies through a telescope. Ask questions about the big bang, cosmic dark matter and time travel. Bring along your SLR camera to learn how to capture amazing images of the beautiful Jabal Akhdar night sky. 

Daytime Solar Viewing

See the sun like never before with solar viewing on the sundeck, where you can safely observe the sun through a special solar telescope as the resident astronomer answers all your cosmic questions!