Alila Hinu Bay, Oman Hotel

Jabal Al Akhdar, Oman

This family-friendly hotel blends ancient with modern, set apart by surprising levels of private space and artisanship. Alila means ‘surprise’ in Sanskrit, and a stay here offers plenty of that. The 112-room resort is tranquillity at its best, having its own lagoon, two seawater swimming pools, a vast private beach and opportunities to discover ancient architecture and ruins – some dating back to the 4th century BC – plus a variety of wildlife, including camels and dolphins. Two restaurants offer high-class cuisine, with The Orchard serving Arabic and Mediterranean fare, while Seasalt is the place to sample the catch from Mirbat’s fishing port. Both, where possible, use produce from their own orchard and gardens, with sustainability and EarthCheck high on the agenda. If it all gets too much, wander over to the standalone wellness spa, which has views of both the sea and the mountains, and enjoy a treatment or take part in yoga or meditation. Doubles from £169.

Words by Dominic Heart.

This Article was taken from the October 2024 issue of Food and Travel. To subscribe today, click here.