On heading to the Sultanate of Oman knowing that you will be staying at one of the pre-eminent luxury boutique GHM properties and the only member of The Leading Hotels of The World in Oman that is known for conceptualizing, developing and operating an exclusive group of hotels and resorts, it is indeed a style to remember and luxe factor expectations are running pretty high especially with such an exotic location in the Middle East.
We were met on arrival at the airport by the hotel’s chauffeur and had no idea what to expect as we were transported through the wide boulevards of Muscat on a short transfer to this luxury resort with its own private beach near al Ghubra and approximately 20 minutes from Muscat's old city.
Alighting from the limousine, all the team greeted us by name and we instantly felt excited about our stay as we were introduced to the enchanting white stucco building of arches and domes resembling a grand Omani palace.
21 acres of gardens that are beautifully landscaped
The resort is located at the foot of the majestic Al Hajar Mountains and the whole city is dwarfed by this natural wonder, plus there is a private beach, all of which is encompassed in some 21 acres of gardens that are beautifully landscaped, along with six dining options, a spa, a health club, modern and fully equipped gym with the most slick ambience we have ever seen as well as three swimming pools, with one of them 103 metres long and black tiled which marks the longest swimming pool in the Middle Eastern region.
The lobby is your first hint at the Omani influence, with lots of large cushions and lamps positioned in the very centre, beckoning you to submit to this Middle Eastern exoticism.
The resort’s
design combines contemporary Asian style motif with subtle Omani nuances within
an imaginative design of pristine buildings and manicured grounds that create
an aura of elegant simplicity.
There is a symmetry to everything that is appealing and, most importantly, creates a serenity that seduces one into a state of nirvana.
The 158 rooms and suites, designed by Jean-Michel Gathy of Denniston Architects, offer views of the Gulf of Oman, Al Hajar mountains and the hotel’s symmetrical Zen gardens.
There is a symmetry to everything that is appealing and, most importantly, creates a serenity that seduces one into a state of nirvana.
The 158 rooms and suites, designed by Jean-Michel Gathy of Denniston Architects, offer views of the Gulf of Oman, Al Hajar mountains and the hotel’s symmetrical Zen gardens.
We were swiftly escorted to our Chedi Club Suite and were instantly taken by the understated chic design of dark timber, white walls and strategically placed windows to open up vistas of the sea and gardens; without having direct sunlight flood the suite from the 46c outside temperature, so the suite is your haven to escape the heat, particularly when there is a high humidity.
Our amenities included access to the Club Lounge, with all day refreshments and evening drinks and canapés, a complimentary minbar that is replenished daily, complimentary breakfast at The Restaurant, a complimentary fruit basket replenished daily. A further inclusion with in-room complimentary decanters of gin, whisky and vodka and snacks to accompany, Bose® Wave® music systems featuring radio and CD player as well as the complimentary use of the Business Centre facilities. Quite frankly, it is more than an indulgence before we had even begun our stay. Such intuitive luxury awaits.
Our Chedi Club Suite's private balcony overlooking the Gulf of Oman
Our Chedi Club Suite's private balcony overlooking the Gulf of Oman
In our bathroom, there is a seductive terrazzo sunk-in-tub, a calming walk-in rainforest shower, his and hers vanities and double wardrobes. The separate living room and the outdoor shaded balcony with sun lounges is another corner to laze around at your own pleasure. Our favorite Aqua di Parma toilettes are well-selected for the bathroom amenities, such fresh and identical scent fills the air with harmony and glowing mood that fit the resort’s luxury image in complete style, so no question about standing out from the crowd on this count.
The 67sqm suite is incredibly spacious and simple in design to avoid clutter, but affording you every luxury and need you could possibly want. Our suite was in the perfect position, being close to the beach, the Club Lounge and reception; a well allocated room and we felt we were in the middle of everything.
The Chedi Muscat Club Lounge serves afternoon tea and evening cocktails.
Due to the resort layout, you hardly notice other guests until you are in the resort’s lobby or swimming pools, as everyone seems to have a different timing for their needs and wants, which creates the perfect ambience and privacy for everyone.
In such a hot climate one does not tend to lean on the side of extraneous activities, so lazing by the pool seems to be number one on everyone’s agenda.
The good news is you will never feel crowded out, as there are three temperature-controlled swimming pools, including the 103 metres long swimming pool by the sea, that are restful and sophisticated.
So space is more than just a simple luxury in this resort. Plus two are adults-only swimming pools and one family pool – this is what so many luxury resorts fail to match and ideal for couples that can’t deal with screaming kids.
Should you be inclined to strenuous activities, there are
two floodlit tennis courts and a health club featuring 30 top-of-the-range
Technogym equipment from the Visio Web line and free weights, Power Plates, a
Kinesis Wall and a Pilates corner – this gym runs rings around any large
resorts, totally unexpected and stunning in outfit and location overlooking the
long pool.
What vacation is replete without some pampering at the spa
and wellness centre and The Chedi has the largest in Muscat, at 1,500 sqm,
including 13 fully self-contained spa suites with poolside views. This spa
embraces eastern philosophy with Asian rituals, offering an extensive variety
of beauty rituals based on holistic principles of aromatherapy, Ayurveda and
herbalism. Sounds divine and it truly is not to be missed.
The Sleek architecture of The Chedi Muscat 103 metres long swimming pool
The semi-shaded pavilion overlooking the sea
The long pool in perspective view looking at the Al Hajar mountains.
Plenty of sun large lounges are offered and distance is well spaced from other to provide more intimacy.
The sea from the Gulf of Oman is more than warm to swim during this mid-summer season, with the strong waves hitting the shore constantly.
The best way to embrace the water is still heading back to the resort’s swimming pools. Another alternative is to head to the resort’s boutique – a cozy enclave offering fine art, hand crafted ornaments, artisanal jewelery and bespoke leisure wear and swim wear.
Cabana setting at The Chedi Pool
The infinity Chedi Pool
Beach front sun lounges are scattered around the lawn ans shaded with tall palm trees
The airy Cabanas by The Serai Pool
The Serai Pool
The Serai Pool's lawn
The outdoor dining of The Restaurant
The outdoor garden by night
The Chedi Muscat water garden by night
Full moon shines bright at The Chedi Muscat by night
Uniting the modernity with traditional elements, The Chedi Muscat merges two styles as different as modern and traditional redefined luxury to a higher level. Luxe is ensured here and be aware of not getting enough of it while you are staying in one of the GHM properties that is permeated with an unrivalled exquisite lifestyle experience. Sometimes, luxury is simply priceless.
The best way to embrace the water is still heading back to the resort’s swimming pools. Another alternative is to head to the resort’s boutique – a cozy enclave offering fine art, hand crafted ornaments, artisanal jewelery and bespoke leisure wear and swim wear.
Cabana setting at The Chedi Pool
The infinity Chedi Pool
Beach front sun lounges are scattered around the lawn ans shaded with tall palm trees
The airy Cabanas by The Serai Pool
The Serai Pool
The Serai Pool's lawn
The outdoor dining of The Restaurant
The outdoor garden by night
The Chedi Muscat water garden by night
Full moon shines bright at The Chedi Muscat by night
Uniting the modernity with traditional elements, The Chedi Muscat merges two styles as different as modern and traditional redefined luxury to a higher level. Luxe is ensured here and be aware of not getting enough of it while you are staying in one of the GHM properties that is permeated with an unrivalled exquisite lifestyle experience. Sometimes, luxury is simply priceless.
Tried
& Tested:
Location: 5/5
Design
& Decor: 5/5
Room
Amenities: 5/5
Food
& Beverages: 4/5
Housekeeping: 4.5/5
Service:
4.5/5
Value
For Money: 4.5/5
Experience: 5/5
Highlights:
Spa & Wellness
The 103 Metres Long Swimming Pool
P.O. Box 964
P.C. 133, Al Khuwair
Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
Tel : +968 2452 4400
*The Chedi Muscat Oman is a GHM Hotels and a member of The Leading Hotels of the World
Reviews are based on
actual day of visit and experience. mylifestylenews reserves the right of final decision
in case of any disputes. All images are photographed by mylifestylenews team without any photoshop enhancement
and are the property owned by mylifestylenews unless otherwise stated.
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