A magical retreat in Oman: Alila Hinu Bay

Lifestyle Sunday 15/August/2021 21:19 PM
By: Times News Service
A magical retreat in Oman: Alila Hinu Bay

Far away from the humdrum of city life, here in the Sultanate’s coastal town of Mirbat in the southern Dhofar region, a luxuriously sculpted artisanal hideaway lies perched amidst the centuries-old history and the plethora of unmarred natural wonders.

Alila Hinu Bay – stretching over 45 hectares of land is a jewel adorning the sleepy hamlet on the Omani seashore, with its architectural marvels and authentic fabrication. Reflecting traditional Omani auras, Alila is a heritage in itself, upping the ante in the tropical part of the country.

Carefully guarded and enfolded by the expansive blue sea, the endless horizon and the mighty unwavering heights of Jabal Samhan, Alila defines that classy getaway on all occasions.

An hour’s drive from the Salalah city centre by car Alila becomes even more comforting, once you experience the incomparable hospitality and warm gestures of the staff, no sooner than after your car is parked.

The lobby is a patchwork of contemporary styles, while still throwing a light on that which is exclusively and traditionally Omani. The colossal arcade ahead of the lobby displaying the typical Omani architecture is blissful and enticing.

The first heavenly sip of welcome drink offered to us - a karkade samba iced tea: an infusion of exotic tropical fruits, hibiscus, rosehip peel, apple bits, orange peel and flower petals served elegantly – was enough to revitalise our minds, bodies and souls.
Venturing into this sprawling paradise unveils an extravagance swaying in the lap of nature’s solitude and a stunning aestheticism blooming at every step.

Running along the rich turquoise coastline of Arabian Sea, the sophisticated pool villas and deluxe pool villas offer guests a stunning panoramic view and an atypical splash of enthralling comfort and privacy.

The bedroom watching over the private pool is perfectly in sync with the surroundings. Wake up, take a plunge in the pool, and witness the waves kissing the shore with a gentle roar. Allow your feet to fondle the sand as you walk a few metres to their private beach. The brown stony hillocks embedded with emerald green seaweeds jut into the turquoise waters forming a vibrant canvas.

With the soothing oceanic melody, the soft sand and exotic seashells, your soul is steeped in ultimate bliss. The outdoor bathtub will only make you feel more in tune with nature, as you ponder over the blue waters and the infinite beyond, while simultaneously enjoying the ultra-modern luxury around you.

The lagoon dotting its course via the sea by the hotel is a harbour to various nesting birds chirping endlessly. The rooms located by it echo the silent wilderness outside, displaying true elegance.

The spa therapists at Alila make sure they know you far better than you think you know yourself. An impressive frankincense tea comes as the showstopper after a much needed relaxing spa treatment.

Sea Salt, as the name suggests, offers a lavish spread, with a mouthful of health and exact the right amount of genuine Arabic and international flavours. Indulge in the coastal dining experience with a view of the ocean and the lagoon, and savour some authentic delicacies.  A perfect plating and ornamental garnishing makes the taste even more palatable.

From classic décor, fond greetings, rejuvenating spa experiences, sumptuous platters to escaping into the backwoods of the Darbat waterfalls, Jabal Samhan’s viewpoint and the historic Khor Rori, indulge in this lavish boutique hotel expressing an extravagant uniqueness. The dolphin watching point within the hotel premise promises a spectacle to behold as nature’s wonders swim through the sea, squeaking in delight.

It is no wonder if you have fallen in love with Oman’s topography and heritage. At Alila Hinu Bay the wonders you experience will leave you speechless.