sand

Oman, land of contrasts

Led by Bedouin guides, our tailor-made expeditions take you deep into this Arabian wilderness. The tracks of our four-wheel-drive dissolve into the sand, leaving no trace of our presence.  Oman’s coastline is unspoiled, with just a smattering of five-star resorts. (The Chedi gets our vote for its Moorish style and excellent service.) 

Although safe and accessible, Oman takes pride in being off the beaten track. Six Senses Zighy Bay, set on a mile-long beach on the northern tip of Arabia, is only accessible by jeep, speedboat or, for the truly adventurous, a tandem paraglider. 

Thrill seekers can try dune-driving or sand-boarding, but the landscape alone is electrifying. Watch sunrise over the desert with a traditional Omani qahwa (coffee) flavoured with cardamom and dates. Toast the setting sun from the crest of a 200-metre dune, a sea of russet sand rippling in all directions.

Watch migrating birds soar above sparkling salt flats. Feast on lamb and aubergine roasted over a campfire, with nothing around for miles and miles but the sound of silence.

(images courtesy of Six Senses Zighy Bay and The Chedi)

Sand , Oman , january

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