Almost entirely constructed from local wood and stone, the Alila Jabal Akhdar is a hotel with a bold design. There are just 86 rooms here, and the decor is one that hints at Oman’s medieval heritage, like those straight-from-the-souk treasure finds and local crafts, but the atmosphere is calm and uncluttered with neutral tones, dark woods and incredible panoramas just beyond. In the common areas, more decorative features include the metal grilles with their damask roses, and trays of coffee and dates, while outside, interlinked courtyards, corridors and shaded gardens create a souq-like hub that guides you to the other hotel highlights. There is the Juniper Restaurant with the option to choose an al fresco table surrounded by lit-up rills and fountains, and the Rose Lounge with its cozy ambience. But the absolute highlight of the hotel remains its infinity-edge pool with views of the canyons below, and a complete absence of any sign of modern life. The spa, featuring 7 treatment rooms, a jacuzzi and a steam room, is another area of the hotel that’s a portal to another world, reminiscent of ancient Oman with its heady mist of frankincense and juniper berry oils.