Oman is Arabia’s jewel in the crown. A favourite of many in the region, Oman is the ideal getaway for a long or short break. We round up some of our favourite hotels and resorts in the Sultanate where you can make the best of the land’s azure blue waters, majestic mountains and lush greenery

Salalah Rotana Resort

The grass is definitely greener on the other side, especially with Khareef just around the corner. Salalah is one of our ideal getaways during the summer. The idyllic beaches, lush mountains and springs are some of our favourite hangouts when visiting Salalah. One of the resorts that caught our attention and is a great choice to stay while in the Dhofari region is Salalah Rotana Resort. Located on Salalah Beach, the resort is surrounded by one of Oman’s most breathtaking natural settings – spectacular mountains, fresh water springs and tropical scenery. Each of the resort’s luxury rooms and suites are located directly on unique lagoons. An elaborate network of manmade Venetian waterways connects the property to the Indian Ocean and are filled with 105,000 square meters of seawater, refreshed every four days using natural tidal patterns. Four restaurants, a Wellness Club, Spa and even a Kids’ Club are part of the property. We think this is just where we need to head to, to get away from the madding crowd.

Shangri-La Al Husn Spa & Resort

A resort that lives up to the meaning of its name, Shangri-La Al Husn Spa & Resort is the ideal getaway when you want to indulge in the lap of luxury. Al Husn means ‘The Castle’ in Arabic and the architecture of the resort resonates with the design of Oman’s ancient castles. We love the fact that the private beach and infinity pool are open only to guests aged 16 and above. Ah! The joy of tranquility!

The Afternoon Tea at Shangri-La Al Husn Spa & Resort is quite delightful. And when you feel like truly winding down in most serene atmosphere, head to Hareer Spa by L’OCCITANE. The massages and facials just perfect to cool down and relax. The views are just splendid from the balconies of the hotel (every room has one). Perfect spot to chill with a sundowner and good book.

Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort

The highest luxury resort in the Middle East is only a couple of hours away from the capital. Higher and cooler, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, 2,000 meters above sea levelis the ideal destination to experience mountain lifestyle living. Home to 115 plush rooms and villas, the resort is truly an exceptional choice for a fine staycation. We especially love the Anantara Spa that has a remarkable menu of treatments for both men and women. For who love a bit of adventure, the resort has a number of activities that include hiking through quaint villages abseiling, rock climbing, archery, and mountain biking. Once you have worked up an appetite Guests can also indulge in one of the six dining destinations at the resort; definitely have an unforgettable meal at the spectacular cliff-edge platform Diana’s Point, named after Diana, Princess of Wales, who visited in November 1986. For kids and teens, the mountain top resort has its very own kids and teens’ club with indoor and outdoor areas that have a number of activities and resources to keep them busy. Enjoy the pure mountain air!

W Muscat

Hip, urban and uber-cool, W Muscat is the newest hotel to open its doors in the capital. The vibe is chilled and makes W Muscat a great city hotel for an eclectic staycation. We love the funky and trendy décor, the seriously cool rooms and the chic F&B options. WET, the hotel’s pool area, is where we intend to hang around for most part of our stay. One of the finest and largest pools in the country, WET is perfect to spend the day cooling down with the resident mixologist’s popular blends. The hotel has five cool dining spots and each with an identity of its own. One of W’s core passion points is FUEL, which is fitness and health. W Muscat has a host of activities that one can try; what you can be sure is that it definitely won’t be boring. One of our favourite spots at the hotel is Living Room where guest Djs spin the latest with a twist and the blends are just as special as the hotel! Summer sure is going to be fun!

Al Nahda Resort & Spa

An oasis of lush greenery, all of 30 acres, Al Nahda Resort & Spa is a retreat like no other. A verdant resort where you wake up to birds singing and crickets chirping, this is where tranquillity and relaxation are the main highlights. But that does not mean the resort does not offer fun treats. The family resort, Al Nahda has activities like treasure hunt, five-aside-football, pool-polo, jumping castle and a whole lot of games for everyone. The resort also hosts evening movies and dining under the stars. The resort’s 109 rooms are designed in apartment, free-standing villa and bungalow styles and boast some of the largest rooms in Oman. The spa has some fantastic therapies that are perfect to wind down and relax in the verdant resort. Water babies are going to love the pool and the waterfall at the resort which is what we need this summer!

Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

A private beach, freshwater lagoon and villas with private pools. Is there anything more that one needs? Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara ticks all the right boxes Nestled between a private beach and freshwater lagoon, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara celebrates cultural treasures, while being the first and only luxury pool villa resort among Salalah hotels.

The majestic design reflects Oman’s coastal fortresses. Garden walkways are lush with palms and water features. Relax at the infinity pool or on white sands. Explore archaeological ruins – or soak up Salalah’s precious frankincense in exclusive spa rituals. We especially love the exquisite villas with private pools. Staying in the villa is just how we plan to spend our staycation in Salalah.

 The Chedi Muscat

A favourite of residents and visitors alike, The Chedi Muscat is our choice for a soothing getaway. The serene ambience and the minimalistic, zen-like décor of the hotel has tempted us to spend many a weekend there. This time around, the hotel has a One-Day Pass during summer that includes a rejuvenating 60- minute Ancient Balinese Massage at The Spa, access to the Long Pool or the beachfront Chedi Pool and a sumptuous buffet breakfast at The Restaurant.

The hotel has some interesting add-ons for summer stays. This includes accommodation in any room category, 30% savings on food and beverage in any dining venue, 30% savings on any spa treatment and a complimentary minibar that will be replenished daily. including water, soft drinks, and beer only (replenished once daily) We are huge fans of the Instagram-worthy 103-metre Long Pool that is one of the highlights of the hotel. Can’t wait to chill in the pool!