Nestled in the dramatic landscape of Oman’s northern Musandam Peninsula, where the jagged Hajar Mountains nose-dive into the verdant sea, sits Six Senses Zighy Bay. A scenic two-hour drive from the chaotic metropolis of Dubai, this idyllic resort dually exemplifies seclusion and accessibility. Nature still reigns here, and the resort’s serenity dispels preconceived stereotypes clients may have about an overly glitzy holiday on the Arabian Peninsula. To see is to believe at Six Senses Zighy Bay.
If extravagance is what clients associate a Six Senses stay with, they will be thrilled — quite literally — from the moment their vacation commences. Two choices of guest arrival experiences are not for the faint of heart, but are certainly for the intrepid adrenaline-seeker: either paraglide into the resort with a resident professional, or make an entrance via speedboat from a neighboring port.
These James Bond-esque entries set the tone for a client’s stay — indeed, eccentric adventure is the backbone of the brand. Guests can enjoy the resort’s Al Feetean Club, which features archery, hiking, trekking and other wilderness-centric activities. Oman’s bountiful coast offers a natural playground to blissfully relax on a peaceful cruise aboard a dhow (a traditional sailing vessel) or explore the mesmerizing reefs and vivid marine life below the sea. The resort specializes in crafting itineraries to challenge even the most active and adventurous clients.
These James Bond-esque entries set the tone for a client’s stay — indeed, eccentric adventure is the backbone of the brand.
Of course, while some aspire to transform into Bear Grylls on holiday, others would rather emulate the Kardashians on their most lavish spa day. Thankfully, this multifaceted resort understands that. Six Senses Spa is a refuge for health and well-being, offering a range of ancient and modern holistic experiences. The property features nine treatment rooms, two hammams, a sauna, a steam room, an ice cave, an outdoor yoga pavilion and a modern fitness center. In-house experts and visiting wellness practitioners share innovative approaches focused on total rejuvenation.
And the ability to relish in tranquility is not confined to the spa. Each of the resort’s 82 villas are purposefully arranged in a village-style configuration, allowing privacy and space. Sandy walkways naturally separate the villas, which themselves are a testament to the natural surroundings, as they are made from local rock and natural materials. Guests can choose between one- and two-bedroom villas, or splurge on the Arabian Palace, the ultimate four-bedroom private reserve aptly coined “a resort within the resort.”
Six Senses Zighy Bay offers luxurious, but down-to-earth, accommodations.
Credit: 2020 Six Senses Hotels Resorts SpasAligning with Six Sense’s ability to tantalize the senses, the gastronomic experiences at the resort are a gourmand’s fantasy. Guests will indulge in the work of global culinary masterminds combining local Omani flavors intertwined with Italian, Indian, French, Asian and modern European delights. Between the Bedouin experience at Shua Shack, the contemporary Spanish fine dining at Sense on the Edge, the homemade sorbet at the Summer House or the bold, traditional flavors of Spice Market, the only grueling decision clients endure is where to submit their dinner reservation.
As of press time, the resort is slated to reopen on Sept. 1 after remaining closed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. And according to the U.S. embassy, commercial international flights in and out of Oman should resume at the end of August.
Six Senses Zighy Bay has elevated its cleanliness standards for reopening. Besides implementing guidance from the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the resort follows additional procedures to assure safety. For example, high-trafficked public spaces will be frequently sanitized; food and beverage services will undergo strict handling standards; social distancing will be practiced in all areas of the property; and the resort will conduct temperature checks upon arrival.
Six Senses Zighy Bay is also striving to have the utmost flexibility with coronavirus-related cancellations. The Six Senses Plan Now, Play Later Certificate program is similar to a gift certificate, providing an additional 20% bonus that may be used toward room bookings and upgrades, or any purchases on the property including dining, spa treatments and activities. Certificates are available for purchase until Dec. 20 and are valid for a period of three years.
The Details
Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas
www.sixsenses.com
