The Chedi Muscat in Oman is a luxurious resort with The Leading Hotels of the World seal. A true oasis of elegance and tranquility where we surrender to the sound of the water, the majestic Al Hajar mountains and dive into the serene waters of the Gulf of Oman. But it is also a resort that fascinates with its comfort, excellent service and good cuisine. We feel Oman’s culture in small details that don’t go unnoticed.
We arrived at The Chedi Muscat through the hotel’s personalized transfer, carried out in a limousine and with all the comfort that suggests a unique experience. The grandeur of the lobby, with the recreation of a typical Omani tent, is the perfect starting point for our dive into the country’s culture. Everything here is light and peaceful, and we quickly embrace the feeling of calm around us, as if it were a Zen retreat, where stress and everyday life lie outside the resort gates.
This oasis is located in a garden with 21 hectares of elegant landscaping with Asian influence, where water is a constant presence, in small lakes, fountains and canals. In total there are 162 rooms and villas with Omani influence, six different restaurants and lounges, a Balinese spa with thirteen suites, three swimming pools, including the beautiful 103 meter Long Pool (the largest in the region, built in volcanic stone), a health club of 700 square meters and two executive meeting rooms. One of the aspects I like most about The Chedi Muscat is the fact that all of the hotel’s services and facilities are a mirror of Arab culture and hospitality.
We stayed in the grand Chedi Club Suite, with magnificent panoramic views of the Hajar Mountains, tranquil lagoons and lots of natural light, which illuminates the bedroom and living room. The decor is minimalist and symmetrical, with Asian influence and harmonious tones, which calm and welcome in a gentle way. A very comfortable bed, jacuzzi-style soaking tub, rainfall shower, luxurious amenities, and several complimentary amenities.
Another advantage is access to the Club Lounge (accessible only to guests staying in the Deluxe Club, Deluxe Club Terrace and Chedi Club Suites), a haven of sophistication and relaxation and an exclusive oasis reserved for the most demanding guests, perfect for the end of afternoon, where snacks, tea, cocktails and canapés are served. The peace of mind you need to sit down and read a book or do business with high-speed internet.
After a relaxing night’s rest, an excellent breakfast awaits us at The Restaurant with a la carte options, show cooking and a wide variety of sweet and savory dishes, including some local specialties. When night falls, at dinner time, the space takes on a particular magic and the lights dimly illuminate the elegant arches inside, where crystal chandeliers reflect the shadow of elegance of those passing by. Muscat’s best culinary talents prepare Western, Asian, Middle Eastern and Indian dishes. These gastronomic combinations arrived at our table with dishes served with authenticity and care, accompanied by an award-winning wine list. Highlights include the Lobster Masala, Arabic Mix Grill or the Saffron Risotto.
The Chedi Muscat enjoys unique proximity to a peaceful beach on the edge of the Gulf of Oman. Here we saw one of the most beautiful sunsets, the kind that rips through the sky with warm, glorious tones, and a sea with warm waters and schools of fish that swim right next to us. Walking along the sand in the late afternoon and ending the day with permanent waves and a cool sea breeze is an experience that I carry with me and the perfect end to this trip. It makes you want to return to Muscat and discover more about this unique destination.
By Carla Branco