The Best Resorts to Stay at in Oman

Shangri-La is a super-plush adults-only hotel perched high on a cliff, overlooking the rugged mountains and Bay of Muscat. The sandy-walled property combines the look of an Arabian palace with that of an old fortress. Rooms are comfortable and luxe without over-the-top bling. The minibar is complimentary, as is the daily afternoon tea served in the courtyard next to date palms. Service is five-star throughout, but the new L’Occitane spa is the real showstopper.

This opulent hotel, with its turrets and golden domes, was originally built as a palace for Oman’s Sultan Qaboos. The atrium in its marble-clad lobby peaks at 38m (125ft), its size symbolising the mountain that once stood here. Enjoy swim-up rooms, shady palm gardens, a Six Senses spa offering 24-carat gold facials and a shopping arcade. Later, hop on the free shuttle bus towards Muscat’s tourist magnets, such as Mutrah Souk.

Atana Musandam is a resort with 110 water’s-edge suites and apartments arranged in eight low-rise buildings to replicate a traditional Omani village. The location, at the northern tip of the Musandam Peninsula, makes this resort shine, with its unique craggy coastline, fjord-like inlets and vast mountain backdrop. There’s a sea-facing outdoor pool, a diving centre and a fully equipped gym.

Salalah is one of the most scenically diverse places in Oman, thanks to its unique tropical microclimate. It’s also the home of frankincense, with a museum to prove it. This luxury resort is immersed in lush gardens that overlook the Indian Ocean. On the edge, you’ll find a long curve of white-sand beach. Choose from luxe rooms, suites and family-friendly villas. You’ll find the only green nine-hole golf course in Oman here, too. The airport is only 10 minutes away by car.

Perched on top of the Jabal Akhdar, meaning the Green Mountain, this resort is high above sea level, with a dramatic view of the Hajar mountain range that is best enjoyed from the infinity pool. Inspired by traditional Omani building techniques, the rocky resort was built using locally sourced stones and adheres to environmental design regulations. Start your day with morning yoga and finish it with a massage in the open-air treatment room.

The Al Baleed Resort is situated between a beach and a freshwater lagoon and is designed to reflect ancient Omani heritage with a contemporary modern twist. One of the real draws is its infinity pool, surrounded by tropical gardens. Enjoy spectacular sea views from the private beach, or partake in a range of ancient spa rituals that use naturally sourced ingredients such as frankincense and banana leaves.

Six Senses Zighy Bay sits on the Musandam Peninsula, where soft-sand beaches meet rugged mountains. At this five-star resort, private pool villas – ranging from one to four bedrooms – come as standard, ideal for those who crave privacy. The award-winning spa is a highlight here, surrounded by date palms and lime bushes. Try yoga with a sunrise view, build up a sweat in the jungle gym or unwind in one of the Arabic-style hammams.

Situated in Muscat, the Chedi is a landscaped garden oasis in the middle of the city. Villas are built in a minimalist style with traditional Omani influences. Upgrade to a deluxe or club suite and you’ll have access to the club lounge. Perks here range from private limousine airport transfers to daily cocktails and canapés. Elsewhere on-site, there are six restaurants, ranging from Mediterranean to Japanese cuisine, as well as three swimming pools and a 13-suite Balinese spa.

Situated at the top of the Jabal Akhdar, the Anantara resort has a stunning view of the Al Hajar mountains and is one of the highest five-star resorts in the world. The design of the buildings reflects both Oman’s artistic culture and the surrounding mountains. Alongside the five-star accommodation there is a spa and an infinity pool. Foodies can choose between dining at the Italian spot by the pool or enjoy Arabic flavours in the fort tower – you can also try your hand at cooking masterclasses. On Fridays, browse the lively courtyard market and enjoy stargazing with shisha.