Peak performance
The Saiq Plateau rises to 2,000 metres above sea level in the north of Oman, part of the Jebel Akhdar limestone massif ringed by craggy summits to the north and the dizzying gorge of Wadi al Ayn to the south. Here, in this plateau farmed for over a thousand years, is the highest five star luxury resort in the Middle East – the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, the Anantara group’s first outpost in the Sultanate of Oman.
And what a first output it is. Designed by French-Moroccan architect Lotfi Sidirahal, the resort was constructed using traditional techniques and materials to occupy the entire top of one of the plateau’s peaks, Green Mountain. Sprawling and low, the panoramic view of the canyons, cliffs and peaks from any inch of the resort is breath-taking. It is enough to make you want to jump into a jeep to take off in search of adventure, including mountain biking, rock climbing or hiking. For those that prefer a more sedate experience, the Anantara Spa will oblige, and there are also other more placid options, including lonely picnics in a wadi and inspirational yoga on rocky outcrops.
