Billed to “Take you breath away” we would concur it sure does. A 5-hour drive from Dubai we were relieved to arrive at this isolated retreat. Situated at 1,400m and 8km on winding roads up from the village of Al Hamras with stunning views over Jebel Shams.
The 30 private “pods” on 3 levels of the hillside are accurately described as eco-luxe and provide stylish accommodation whilst blending into the surrounding environment. There are two categories but the view is the only difference with those at the front holding the best full view of the valley. They are equipped with free-standing baths and rain showers and all the necessary facilities. There is a small restaurant within the resort that offers up good quality international cuisine with buffet and a la carte option for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is an infinity pool with jaw-dropping views and bike and hike tours available.
Along with Jabal Shams “Oman’s Grand Canyon”, in close proximity are some of our favourite sites that we visited including the stunning old villages of Misfat Al Abreen, Balad Sayeet Village and Al Hamra with their date palm plantations, the Fort of Bahla and Jabreen Castle built in 1670, the market town of Nizwa with it’s beautifully restored Souq&Fort, the vast Wadis of Tanuf and Ghul and the neighbouring mountain area Jabal Akdhar “The Green Mountain” and one of Oman’s highest points.
We made the most of our time and enjoyed two days driving in the area to visit the above sites and on gentle walks stopping often for refreshments, to take in the views and of course for Maya’s naps! In the evenings we simply relaxed at The View and after dinner, we enjoyed looking at a clear sky full of stars by the campfire and slept soundly with pure silence interrupted occasionally by the sound of local wildlife or neighbours retiring a little later than those with small children. We set our alarm to catch the sunrise from our balcony which was well worth it with a stunning 180 view of the valley.
For those more adventurous there is now a Via Ferrata in Jabal Shams and plenty of challenging hikes with overnight camping including the balcony walk overlooking Wadi Nakhar to the abandoned village, the descent walks to the canyon towards the historic village of Wadi Ghul and the descent walk from Sharfat Al Aiman to Balad Sayeet.
We can’t wait to go back to The View and on the agenda for our next visit are a visit to Al Hoota Caves one of the world’s largest cave systems and finally now re-opened!, the old village of Birkat Al Mouz, Wadi Al Moaddin and Bait Al Safa. ■
Words by: Nabin and Nicola Maharajn
Photos by: Nabin, Soul Photography
