The Beautiful Grand Mosque

Mountains, Culture and Relax

Oman

Kate Hayes on 25 Sept 2025

Our recent trip to Oman was nothing short of unforgettable—a beautiful blend of serene landscapes, warm hospitality, and world-class luxury. From the cool mountain air of Jabal Akhdar to the calming shores of Muscat, every moment offered something remarkable.

 

A Mountain Escape at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar

Our first stop was the breath taking Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort, where we stayed in a Canyon View Room perched high above the rugged Omani mountains. The resort truly lives up to its reputation—peaceful, unspoilt, and incredibly relaxing.

Mountain Villages

October proved to be the perfect time to visit. The weather was pleasantly warm during the day with a refreshing cool breeze in the evenings—ideal for exploring.

One of the highlights of our stay was a scenic hike to the local villages. Walking through the old mountain settlements gave us a deeper appreciation of the region’s culture. It was inspiring to see how local communities are working to regenerate once-derelict villages, adapting ingeniously to environmental changes while preserving their heritage. The landscapes, the quiet beauty, and the sense of history all combined to make it a truly memorable experience.

If you're looking for tranquillity in a stunning natural setting, this resort is a dream.

Sundowners

Luxury Redefined at The Chedi, Muscat

From the mountains, we travelled down to Muscat to experience the elegance of The Chedi—and what a transition it was. This hotel is beyond extraordinary. Words barely do justice to its refined design, serene ambience, and exceptional service.

Chedi at night

We stayed in a Chedi Club Suite, which elevated the entire experience to an unforgettable level of luxury. The suite’s spacious lounge area offered the perfect place to unwind, while the oversized bed ensured the most restful sleep. The bathroom was truly a sanctuary, complete with a stunning sunken bath that felt like pure indulgence. One of the loveliest touches was returning from dinner to find candles lit for us—an intimate, calming detail that made the stay feel even more magical. Candle Light

The staff make every guest feel valued, and their attention to detail is impeccable. Whether it’s arranging a reservation, offering recommendations, or simply providing a warm welcome, nothing is ever too much trouble.

And then there’s the iconic 103-metre Long Pool—a masterpiece in its own right. I absolutely loved swimming my daily lengths here; its sheer size meant I could enjoy a peaceful, uninterrupted swim every day with no problem at all. It was the perfect way to unwind and appreciate the hotel’s serene surroundings. 

With a variety of fabulous restaurants on-site, dining became an experience in itself, with cuisine to suit every taste.

A Visit to the Grand Mosque

No trip to Muscat is complete without seeing the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Its intricate architecture, peaceful courtyards, and breath taking prayer hall left us in awe. It truly is one of the most stunning landmarks in the region. Grand Mosque

Oman: A Destination We’ll Return To

Oman captured our hearts from the moment we arrived. The combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and luxurious hospitality makes it a destination we know we’ll return to again and again.

If you're seeking somewhere unique—somewhere both calming and inspiring—put Oman at the very top of your travel list.

Getting There

Traveling to Oman is wonderfully convenient, with daily direct flights from Heathrow to Muscat with Oman Air. The journey is smooth and comfortable, making this beautiful destination even more accessible for a short break or a longer escape.The Beautiful Chedi Hotel

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