Alila Jabal Akhdar, Oman

1 February 2015

Words: Gareth Rees / Image: Alila Jabal Akhdar

Perched on the side of a cliff in the Hajar Mountains, 2,000 metres above sea level and looking out over a gorge, Alila Jabal Akhdar (‘The Green Mountain’ in Arabic) is certainly in a prime location. But building a luxury hotel in an area of such astounding natural beauty presents a challenge – blending in rather than becoming a blot on the natural landscape. Fortunately, Atkins, the architectural firm responsible for designing the resort, has managed, with the help of interior design firm P49, to create a property that is luxurious without being ostentatious, and appears to belong to the mountainous terrain. 

Inspired by Omani forts and built from light-coloured local stone and dark wood using traditional Omani techniques, the property eschews the gaudy trappings so often associated with luxury for a neutral colour palette and an elegant, minimalist design aesthetic, which, combined with the surroundings, creates a sense of serenity. Alila Jabal Akhdar also boasts a knowledgeable staff eager to arrange hiking trips, a spa, a restaurant, a lounge bar, a gym, an indoor plunge pool and a heated outdoor infinity pool. 

alilahotels.com