Just a few short hours from Dubai lies Zighy Bay, Oman, where nature and indulgence seamlessly coexist.
You’ve very likely heard of it, nestled in the picturesque Musandam Peninsula on a mile-long beach, Zighy Bay is the epitome of peaceful luxury. At the bend of a road, deep into the desert, carefully integrated into the wild (and staggeringly beautiful) surrounds, you’ll find this Six Senses hotel that offers an unforgettable stay where privacy, Omani traditions, and the captivating outdoors are foregrounded.
The Vibe
From the smooth pick up in Dubai you’re whisked away onto a relaxing two-hour journey to Oman, where it’s only a twenty-minute drive from the border. The somewhat terrifying climb through to the top of the rugged mountain is so idyllic, it’s worth keeping your camera ready and your eyes open.
Located between the craggy mountains and surrounded by the blue waters of Musandam’s fjords. Zighy Bay is the ultimate haven of tranquillity and quite possibly the jewel of Oman. On arrival you’re immediately immersed with a Traditional Omani merhaba and there’s a real sense of rustic charm. You’re offered a welcome drink, henna for the ladies – inspired by the Six Senses pyramid – and Omani head dressing for the gentleman. It’s a sophisticated blend of luxury, wellbeing and culture with service that goes above and beyond.
The Rooms
The individual villas are designed to resemble an Omani village, and on first appearances the suites feel authentic and charming. Curated from natural stone and inspired by traditional Omani architecture.
Ceilings are low, accentuated with moody lighting and concrete décor. Each of the villas has their own private plunge pool and an outdoor terrace along with bicycles to explore the bay. Whichever property you opt for, every villa is open plan, incredibly spacious with no end to privacy, and come with a villa personal attendant.
The beachfront pool villas have to be a favourite. Steps away from Zighy’s sandy beach, with undisturbed views of the ocean, they are absolutely enchanting. Running along the front row of the bay with direct beach access, it makes for the most stunning sunrise experience.
The Food + Drink
There is a vast offering of dining options, each a distinct culinary experience. Perched atop the hill overlooking the expansive Zighy Bay, Sense On The Edge offers fine dining with a focus on South East Asian dishes and stunning sea views. For extra romance, The Starlight and Moonlight tables are positioned on private terraces for added intimacy and of course, unobstructed sunsets lending to the perfect Instagrammable moment.
For savouring casual dishes the Bedouin style Shua Shack is the place of choice. Located directly on the expansive, sandy beach offering comfortable seating under warm lantern lights, the friendly and relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant exudes onto the menu comprising of sharable cold and hot mezze. The restaurant is unsurprisingly a favourite among guests so make sure to book ahead.
The resort is committed to sustainable and eco-friendly practices and where they are able to, use locally sourced ingredients from the local Dibba Farm. There’s an organic garden right on the bay where they grow produce and where staff welcome guests to explore.
And the day starts well with a diverse breakfast at the Spice Market, from traditional classics to Arabic delicacies with an array of homemade cheese and pastries.
The Little Extras
It’s all about family fun at Zighy Bay. The Chiaca’s Club is a heaven for children with the kids club open daily from 9am to 6pm. Adults can enjoy the tranquil escape whilst the resort offers a wide range of fun activities (4-10 years old and 11-18 years old). From beach bowling to cookie, cupcake and pizza making, feeding the Zighy Goats to Olympic games. Then for the teens, paddle boarding to slack lining, archery to ping pong matches, and additional babysitting services should you require.
The To-Do List
Six Senses is renowned for its focus on well-being and Zighy Bay is no exception. The spa, hidden away at the top of mountain offers a range of holistic treatments and therapies including the locally inspired signature treatments such as the two-hour long ‘Wonders of Oman’ body cleansing and the ‘Zighy Bay Experience’ herbal massage using freshly dried herbs from the hotel garden.
If you can pull yourself away from the beach, Zighy Bay encourages a sense of adventure; paragliding over the resort has to be a once in a lifetime opportunity, with breathtaking aerial views of the Bay and its surrounding landscape, it feels otherworldly and adds for the most adventurous and invigorating vibe to your stay.
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