Salalah by Anantara: a dreamy Oman family resort

Salalah in the southwest of Oman is a wonderful combination of Arabian charm and exotic coastal escape.

Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara – just 15 minutes from Salalah Airport, making it hassle-free for families to get to – is nestled between a private beach and a freshwater lagoon. It is the first and only luxury pool villa resort in the region. Children will feel like they’re staying in one of Oman’s magical coastal fortresses, while parents will relish the highend design and sophisticated service.

The resort offers an array of spirit-lifting activities which parents and kids can enjoy separately or together.

Teenagers can engage and socialise at Alshirae Teens Club, where they can relax and enjoy karaoke, painting classes, board games, table tennis, billiards and air hockey. Themed activities such as an underwater treasure hunt, movie night, pyjama night, disco night and karaoke nights are all on offer. The latest game consoles such as Nintendo Wii and Xbox 360 are also available.

Little guests are kept entertained at Al Bahhara Kids Club with caring staff and their very own outdoor play area with play set, sand pit, splash pool and mini loungers.

The resort’s fantastic child-friendly facilities give parents the opportunity for plenty of quality adult time, such as a holistic journey in the spiritual spa, restoring strength, beauty and balance to the body, mind and soul. To kick-start their day, adults can join in with sunrise yoga or take a short run on the fabulous beach.

But of course, family holidays are all about bonding too, and everyone will enjoy a full-day Jebel Safari where they explore historic Taqah’s fishing life, castle towers and stone houses. Families can also visit Wadi Darbat to see wildlife, and a short distance away they can stop at Sumhuram to see ancient ruins including the Queen of Sheba’s Castle.

Adventurous families will relish a hike to Teiq Cave which sits atop one of the largest sink holes in the world. Alternatively, they can explore the city while educating the kids about the Omani heritage and end the day with a magical under-the-stars movie night and dining experience.

Appealing to families, the one- and two-bedroom pool villas offer separate living areas as well as private temperature-controlled swimming pools – always a hit with children. And if you’re travelling with multi generations, the resort’s three-bedroom Royal Beach Pool Villa, which is the epitome of coastal luxury with an infinity sea panorama, is sure to appeal to older folks. Your Arabian escape awaits!