Why go?
Clutching Oman’s rugged coastline, Six Senses Zighy Bay typically sits at the very top of most astute travellers’ honeymoon lists. Languid days roll on here against an ethereal canvas of the Gulf of Oman and the dramatic Hajar mountains. Suites and villas echoing a traditional Omani village stagger down to meet a mirage-like sandy bay. And while memorable honeymoon experiences range from traditional dhow charters exploring the surreal coastline to breathy morning hikes through the mountains, this is where to go for the ultimate shoulder-lowering relaxation, in a truly flawless setting.
Honeymoon Style
If you’re looking for a honeymoon that’s utterly idyllic and blissfully secluded, this resort is barefoot luxury at its best. Foodies will love the Sense of the Edge restaurant with its vertigo-inducing mountain top views and cavalcade of sensory dishes – romance personified.
Set the Scene
Six Senses Zighy Bay is the stuff of legend, seemingly woven into the biblical-grade Hajar Mountains and occupying a bay that you have to blink a few times to take in. The arrival, whether it’s a heart-racing descent over the cliffs, a hair-whooshing journey by speedboat, or a surreal glide from mountain to villa, is merely the overture to a week or two of being wowed at every corner.
The vibe is certainly rustic chic, with no scrolling or laptops in sight. 82 stone villas are dotted among the palm trees and sandy paths lined with fig and pomegranate trees, (and occasionally interrupted by the odd wandering goat). Guests are encouraged to go barefoot and hop on the padded pedalled bikes (provided for each villa). The traditional theme and natural materials used to blend into the surrounding environment are given a minimalist lick.
There are two large pools, one of which is saltwater, with hammocks slung between palm trees and swimmers refuelling on mouth-wateringly delicious homemade ice-cream. Activities include sailing, mountain biking and archery, while a tandem microlight flight, soaring 2,500-feet above the coast and mountains, is honeymoon gold.
Rooms
The 82 villas are quietly lavish open-plan spaces that mimic the traditional Omani village style – expect interiors fashioned from date palm sticks, flagstone floors, and dark wood furniture adorned with burnt orange cushions. Ensuring a blissful sleep, organic Naturalmat beds are swathed in unbleached, heavenly linen. Each villa is equipped with a Nespresso machine, locally bottled mineral water, and a wine fridge expertly tweaked by the sommelier to suit your palate.
The pool villas exude a bygone charm, hewn from stone with walls bearing a rustic finish and ceilings adorned with reeds, casting a gentle, lantern-lit glow. Ensuring utmost privacy, the pools are cocooned by fences, stones and swaying palm trees. Bathrooms are designed as swishy sanctuaries, with late afternoon soaks something worth hoiking yourself off a sunbed for. Rain showers cascade like liquid silk, and are accompanied by frankincense oils to really anchor you in the Arabian setting.
For those seeking the utmost privacy, the Private Reserve (as the name denotes) offers that honeymoon-worthy seclusion and wow-factor. With four bedrooms, a handsome private pool and light-filled spaces, guests struggle to leave (particularly with the dedicated team of butlers on hand to cater to any whim). As day transitions to twilight, an outdoor bathtub lost to the surrounding lush greenery invites a romantic soak under the star-studded Omani sky.
Eco-friendly
Six Senses Zighy Bay is confidently the standard-bearer for eco-luxury along Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, and, for those au fait with the group, across the world. This eco-conscious haven redefines the relationship between humans and nature, going beyond the ordinary to coexist harmoniously and to prove that a luxurious stay need not be to the detriment of the surrounding wildlife and natural landscape. Led by their dedicated Director of Sustainability, Armand Thieblemont, the resort has become a testament to mindful living where every element at Six Senses Zighy Bay is steeped in conscious choices.
At the heart of this sanctuary lies the ‘Earth Lab’, an innovative space where guests embark on an educational journey into sustainable practices. The resort’s commitment is palpable, from the creation of a self-sustained local village to the careful curation of every detail, ensuring that every aspect of the guest experience resonates with nature’s rhythm. Coral reefs, once languishing, now thrive under the dedicated care of marine biologist, Davide. Guitarfish and feather tail rays find sanctuary here, with their journeys tracked by a vigilant team.
Even the kids’ play area (a true haven of joy), is a testament to creativity and recycling, with glass bottles finding new life as decorations and lampshades.
Food and Drink
Begin your day at the Spice Market, a vibrant medley of Middle Eastern culinary treasures with the motto is ‘take what you want, eat what you take.’ The freshly baked bread, local cheeses, and array of seasonal fruits is simply divine. By night, opt for the in the Omani shuwa, a delectable slow-cooked traditional lamb dish bursting with rich flavours. For an extraordinary dining experience, venture to Sense on the Edge, where panoramic views cascade down to the sea, elevating dinner to new heights. Summer House is an alluring foodie’s oasis of Mediterranean-inspired dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients. Or for an intimate evening, opt for the Dining on the Sand experience, where your toes scrunch the warm sands while relishing a bespoke menu, à deux, under the starlit Omani sky.
Family-Friendly
Despite its high standards, Six Senses Zighy Bay warmly welcomes families, offering a thoughtfully-curated array of activities for children of all ages to enjoy. The resort proudly features not one, but two distinctive kids clubs: Al Feetean’s, tailored for older kids, and Chaicas, designed with the littlest adventurers in mind. Both clubs are adorned with mainly wooden materials, a conscious choice in alignment with the resort’s dedication to sustainability.
Family-friendly excursions await, from guided nature hikes to exhilarating water sports, with sufficient choice for every member to find their preferred adventure. Cooking classes become a sweet bonding experience, as families try their hand at traditional Omani dishes side by side. The resort’s pristine pool, fringed with swaying palms, invites both young and old to splash and play, though there’s enough space and quite corners for any child-free honeymooners to enjoy ample peace.
Spa
Six Senses Zighy Bay’s spa is not merely a place for relaxation; true to Six Senses’ form, it’s a spiritual journey through ancient traditions guided by brilliant therapists. It’s hard not to be silenced by the spa’s heritage-style interiors and calming, exotic-style lanterns. Drawing on traditional local rituals, the treatment menu has a spiritual essence, using age-old healing techniques and local botanical oils. Wafts of lemongrass and deep, woody spices accompany most therapies and root guests in their exotic location.
For honeymooners, we highly recommend the Zighy Time Ritual – a signature treatment where various oils and ancient techniques press all the right buttons for adrenaline-pumped newly-weds.
The Story
The resort’s founders, Sonu and his wife Eva, founders of Soneva Fushi on the Island of Kunfunadhoo in the Maldives, were inspired by the idea of creating a sanctuary that honoured the natural beauty of Zighy Bay and the local traditions and heritage. Drawing on local craftsmanship, they set about realising their dream. Today, Six Senses Zighy Bay stands as a testament to mindful luxury, offering guests a chance to experience the rich tapestry of Oman’s culture in a tastefully luxurious, nature-first setting.
Location
Occupying a dramatic stretch of beach and buttery, scrubby terrain between the Hajar Mountains and the sparkling Gulf of Oman, Six Senses Zighy Bay offers a privileged escape. The resort’s accessibility from Dubai International Airport ensures that this hidden gem is remarkably easy to reach. For those seeking a more adventurous entrance, guests can arrive by paragliding or speedboat. Additionally, Turquoise Holiday Company, renowned as a leading honeymoon expert, can assist in arranging your journey to this exquisite destination.
Turquoise Holiday Company offer 7 nights in a Pool Villa, bed & breakfast from £8,690 per family of two adults and two children under 12 years old. Including return flights with Emirates from Heathrow and private transfers. Price based on travel in May. Offer includes complimentary private transfers when staying for 7 nights or more.
For more details go to: https://www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/zighy-bay
