Monday 25 / November / 2024
Romantic getaways aren’t limited to posh resorts, so this weekend why don’t you take your special someone on an adventure? Tucked between captivating sandy mountains 21-kilometres up hilly Qantab Road from Muscat, Bandar Al Khayran is an idyllic retreat with crystal clear waters and a soft sand beach that will make you feel a world away.
FRIDAY
09:00am Sleep in a bit and then load your car with camping and picnicking supplies. Head 45-minutes south on Qantab road, roll down the windows and enjoy an amazing breeze with views of gigantic mountains. Follow the Bandar Al Khayran signs to a sharp curve at the top of a hill (23° 30’ 5” North, 58° 43’ 57” East). If you don’t have a 4x4, park here and then walk to the cloistered beach below. Otherwise, kick on your four-wheel drive and carefully make your way down to the beach.'
11:00am Once you reach, find the perfect picnic spot. I recommend a beachfront experience, on to Bandar’s yellow sand beach next to the lapping blue waves. Get out for basket and cooler and enjoy a quiet lunch
.
04:00pm As the weather cools down, change into your swimming suits grab your snorkeling gear before heading out to explore Bandar Al Khayran’s crystal clear waters.
07:00pm Get dried-off and set up a campfire. Grill some seafood or a steak and drink something bubbly and festive.
09:00pm Curl up under a blanket and enjoy a quiet, peaceful night by the sea, stargazing and reminiscing about great times you’ve had, while creating a new memory together. Hopefully you remembered to bring a big box of chocolates to make the romantic night complete.
SATURDAY
09:00am Sleep as late as you can, though the sun will likely have you up at dawn. Then go wander through the mountains and backroads of Bandar Al Khayran. Take caution while hiking as the soil here is quite loose. If full-on hiking is not your cup of tea, swim to the adjacent beaches and explore them on foot.
12:00pm Have a simple lunch with an assorted cheese board, bread, honey, and some fruits. To enhance the island-y ambiance be sure to include cut pineapples, mangoes, and watermelon in the mix.
02:00pm Relaxing and sunbathing after lunch, snoozing, conversing, or reading your favourite book or magazine.
04:00pm Refresh yourself with a quick dip, then pack up your stuff and get ready to head home. Take a selfie at the top of the hill, with the vibrant blue ocean beneath you.
05:00pm On your way back to town, stop near the mosque at Bandar Al Khayran. Facing the mosque is an old, shipwrecked boat tucked between two beautifully situated mountains — a phenomenal spot to take some memorable photographs.
