Omani Adventure: Mountains, Magic Camps and Beach

Days 1-3    
Arrive in the morning into Muscat Airport before transferring out of the city and into Oman’s dramatic interior. Over the next two and a half hours, travel through the heart of the Hajar mountain range passing by date palms, pomegranate trees and rose terraces. Gradually climb to 2000m above sea level, where the breath-taking Alila Jabal Akhdar provides a tranquil and relaxing haven.        

By day Alila Jabal Akhdar is perfectly located to explore the natural beauty of the Hajar mountains, with numerous guided walks available from the hotel taking in ancient donkey trails and lost villages, swimming wadis, dramatic canyons, and stunning caves. Beyond the mountain range lie the towns of Nizwa, Jabreen and Bahla, home to bustling souks and fascinating forts, including the incredible UNESCO-protected Bahla Fort which dates from the third millennium BC.        

Return to the hotel and indulge yourself in a dip in the spectacular infinity pool overlooking the craggy valley below, luxuriate in the spa or take a stroll along the hotels butterfly trail. As night falls, take in a dramatic sunset at Rose Lounge or enjoy a gastronomic journey of discovery at signature restaurant Juniper. Like the hotel itself they combine local tradition and materials with international influences to create a unique experience for all. For those looking for something extra special, savour a special meal under the stars at the cliffs edge.        

Days 4-5        
After a final morning enjoying the Hajar mountains, head towards the towering dunes in the heart of the desert and a camp which fuses authentic Bedouin lifestyle with the comfort of luxury accommodation Magic Camps Wahiba Sands. The camp lies 40 minutes’ drive from the nearest road, choose to arrive by 4x4 or for a truly memorable (and instagramable) experience arrive aboard the ship of the desert, covering the last twenty minutes of the journey by camel.    

Settle in to the luxurious solar and battery powered tents, furnished with natural materials, elegant bedding and coir carpeting. Take to the dunes and try your hand at sandboarding, fatbiking or find your perfect spot to watch the sunset before heading back to camp for a delicious lamp- lit meal in the dining tent. Choose to turn in for the night, head to the communal majli (seating area) to share stories with your fellow travellers or perhaps take in the vast celestial show taking place in the skies above guided by the Camp’s own astronomer.  

The following day is dedicated to a 4 hour 4x4 visit exploring Wadi Bani Khalid, a rocky river valley with lush green palms and refreshing turquoise waters. Return to camp and finish the day with another dinner influenced by local flavours.        

Days 6-8        
Enjoy a final desert breakfast before beginning the journey back to Muscat and the coast.  With dramatic mountains on one side and the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf on the other, the newly built Jumeriah Muscat Bay is the perfect combination of state-of-the-art facilities and Omani traditional hospitality.  

Perfectly situated between city and sea, those looking for more culture can head into Muscat to explore the souks and the dramatic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, while those wanting a more relaxing experience can enjoy the watersports and snorkelling in the sheltered cove of Bandar Jissah back at the hotel. If you are very lucky, you may even spot turtles off the end of the jetty!    

Day 9        
Enjoy the facilities at Jumeirah Muscat Bay before a short transfer to the airport for your return flight in the afternoon.