Alila Jabal Akhdar

Perched on a cliff edge atop the beautiful Al Hajar Mountains, this luxury hotel makes for a gorgeous, relaxing retreat. The stone architecture almost blends into the rocky surroundings, while the stunning mountain views unfold all around. The scattering of buildings is linked by gravel paths and skirted in dry shrubs, melting into the mountainous landscape. Outdoor spaces take advantage of the wonderful scenery, with plush sitting areas scattered about and a gorgeous infinity-edge pool overlooking the vistas. Interiors are fiercely chic and sophisticated, thanks to a modern, minimalist sensibility combined with rustic elements. Stone floors and walls, wooden ceiling beams, and open fireplaces are complemented by clean-lined furniture and stylish touches like handmade pottery, copper ornaments, and pretty rose patterns inspired by the local damask roses. 

Guests here are a well-heeled bunch of mostly couples seeking a tranquil retreat. Kids are allowed here, but the rocky, uneven terrain and precipitous location of the property means that they should be under constant supervision.

Situated in the Al Hajar Mountains, this property is very isolated and deliberately so, attracting those seeking a true retreat and getaway into nature. Access is by 4WD vehicles only, and there is a police checkpoint at the base to enforce this law. Several hiking trails offering breathtaking mountain views start right at the resort, but there is little else in the immediate vicinity. Nearby attractions that travelers might be interested in exploring include the 17th-century Nizwa Fort, historic Jabreen Castle, and UNESCO-protected Bahla Fort. The resort is about an hour from the city of Nizwa, while Muscat International Airport can be reached in about two-and-a-half hours by car. Airport transfer services can be booked at the hotel for a fee.

As you'd expect, rooms are chic, with a modern, minimalist style that pairs sleek dark-wood furnishings and ceiling beams for a rustic touch with traditional details like pottery. Juniper branches hand-painted onto the walls are a charming detail. Starting at 560 square feet (52 square meters), suites are spacious and have sitting areas as well as work desks. They come decked out with modern amenities like large flat-screen TVs, Nespresso machines, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Large bathrooms have soaking tubs and separate rainfall showers, as well as swish touches like double sinks and high-end toiletries.

Lovely private balconies or terraces have outdoor sofas and offer gorgeous views over the surroundings -- some even have daybeds and loungers. Two luxurious villas are also available for those seeking even more privacy and space. These two-bedroom units have living rooms, dining rooms, kitchenettes, and private infinity pools in attractive outdoor areas, while the master bathrooms have steam rooms.

The gorgeous infinity outdoor pool is an impressive sight, overlooking the rugged mountain scenery surrounding. Plush loungers line the pool deck, and there's fresh fruit served here in the afternoons. There's a smaller, attractive indoor pool as well. A peaceful spa has seven treatment rooms, a steam room, and a hydrotherapy area, and offers an extensive menu of treatments. Free yoga classes are offered twice a week on a lovely yoga deck with stunning views over the mountains. The gym is a bright, inviting space with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the pool and a decent selection of modern Cybex machines, including treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes. 

Juniper restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a tasteful space that offers beautiful mountain views, plus there's a lovely outdoor space, too. It serves local and international fare, with an emphasis on seasonal, local produce. There's also a lounge serving drinks and light bites, and room service is available 24/7. 

There are plenty of activities on offer here spanning different areas of interest -- culture, wellness, culinary, and outdoor sports, among others. Guests can go hiking, explore caves, stargaze, and more. Other amenities include a boutique stocked with all sorts of stylish items such as clothes, jewelry, crafts, and souvenirs, plus and a cozy library with business services. There are also two meeting rooms and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.