Escape: Six Senses Zighy Bay

For a getaway that is a mixture of adventure and relaxation, Zighy Bay might be the unique experience for the festive period you never knew you needed.

Location

Set among the dramatic mountain peaks of Musandam peninsula in Oman in its own secluded bay, you really feel like you’re on another planet, although you have driven a mere two hours from central Dubai. Once you cross the border and drive through a quiet town, you end on a very rugged path. Don’t panic, this is the adventurous part of your route which slowly leads you past a security checkpoint. If you have come in a 4×4 then you carry on up ‘slowly, slowly’ at recommendation of the staff, or leave your wheels behind and jump in the back of their own transport to finish the last stretch of the journey to the resort.

The hill climb is nerve wracking, but as you reach the top and admire the blue waters of the Arabian Sea stretching up past the horizon and spot the resort at the bottom, you’re filled with relief and excitement. Once you enter the reception area, you are rewarded for your extreme driving with a date smoothie and a refreshing towel by a group of very friendly staff. Their attentive and kind nature is a permanent fixture, they clearly love to look after their guests with a number of them working there since the resort opened in 2008.

Rooms

We were lead down a sandy path to our two-bedroom villa situated among the palms and a couple of rows from the sea. It is one of 82 at the property with ample of space that includes a large outdoor area including a pool heated to a perfect temperature. The split-level design is ideal for families and offers all the facilities you may possibly need, including you own butler. There are also villas situated directly on the beach.

Style

The resort itself charms a large number of international guests for its traditional Omani design with modern comforts, as well as plenty of space so you never feel like any part of the hotel is too crowded.

Food & Drink

The food is another highlight with great menus at all the restaurants, including nightly buffet at the Spice Market and spectacular views from Sense on the Edge.

Something Extra

To make the festive experience even more special, Zighy Bay has recently introduced a very special Dhahab cruise on a traditional Omani dhow. The modern interior design is seen throughout the outdoor and indoor communal spaces with three bedrooms for 6 guests. The three-day and two-night cruise to neighbouring villages and sites is completely tailor made to your wishes, be it fishing, snorkeling or simply having your all-time favourite cuisine prepared by the on-board chef, served morning, day at night.