Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
OVERVIEW
Built-in 1985 as the official hotel for the Gulf Corporation Council Summit, the Al Bustan Palace is well used to hosting dignitaries and heads of state. The hotel is one of the most iconic in the Middle East, set between one of the loveliest beaches in Oman (private, of course) and the dramatic Al Hajar Mountains, towering over the coastline.
Because of its stately beginnings, the hotel has continued its theme of exceptionally high levels of service and comfort which it affords to all its guests, not just the very important people from the world of politics and beyond. Its setting is what makes the hotel so spectacular: wedged between the beautiful beach and the mountains, with a selection of pools to enjoy. The 50-metre infinity pool stretches into the distance and seems to disappear into the sparkling blue gulf beyond, lined by gently swaying palms.
Coffee is a big part of life in Oman, so at the Al Bustan Palace, you’ll be welcomed by the ‘coffee man’, who will fix you a delicious infusion that harks back to the souks and spice sellers of centuries past. If you want to relax properly into your time here then pay a visit to the fabulous Six Senses Spa, where you can reawaken your senses with a traditional treatment in the 33,000 square-feet of spa space – there are 17 treatment rooms! Packed with amenities and with a location that will have you swooning, the Al Bustan Palace is a great choice for a family or couples break in the sun.
SUMMARY
Rooms: 250
Location: Muscat, Oman
Nearest Airport: Muscat International Airport, Oman
Board Basis: Bed & Breakfast, Half Board
6 Reasons to visit Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
- One of Muscat’s most revered hotels, it opened in 1985 and is wonderfully well-established
- Architecture leans to the Arabian side, from the dramatic lobby to the opulent gardens
- The hotel is set on 200 acres of lush gardens on a private beach
- You’re just a short drive from the capital, but far enough away to feel relaxed
- The Six Senses Spa is set in an amazing location among the mountains and wadis
- The Ritz Kids club means you can chill out while the little ones burn off some energy
The hotel is in a great location so don’t miss the chance to get out and explore. The country of Oman is really driveable and nearby you’ll find the Hajar Mountains, the dunes of Wahiba Sands, Muscat and the Ras al-Jinz turtle conservancy. If you don’t fancy driving yourself we can arrange a chauffeur-driven tour.
Where to stay
Reflecting the local traditions with art deco touches, rooms have views of the mountains, sea or gardens. There are 198 rooms and 52 suites; each of the rooms has a balcony from which to enjoy the view. Choose from a vista of the Hajar Mountains, the manicured gardens or the spectacular Gulf. Of the 52 suites, each one is equally luxurious with plenty of space to unwind and separate living rooms. On the sixth and seventh floors, they have fantastic views of the mountains or ocean.
The hotel is in a great location so don’t miss the chance to get out and explore. The country of Oman is really driveable and nearby you’ll find the Hajar Mountains, the dunes of Wahiba Sands, Muscat and the Ras al-Jinz turtle conservancy. If you don’t fancy driving yourself we can arrange a chauffeur-driven tour.
What to do
Activities on offer at Al Bustan are plentiful, including watersports, cultural excursions (both great for younger members of the family), romantic beach dinners (that’s the grown-ups taken care of) and spa therapies in the Six Senses spa. Each afternoon, retreat from the scorching sun into one of the four infinity pools or head indoors for some air-conditioned comfort and English-style afternoon tea.
The hotel is in a great location so don’t miss the chance to get out and explore. The country of Oman is really driveable and nearby you’ll find the Hajar Mountains, the dunes of Wahiba Sands, Muscat and the Ras al-Jinz turtle conservancy. If you don’t fancy driving yourself we can arrange a chauffeur-driven tour.
What and Where to Eat
Dining options are varied, including all-day buffets and a la carte meals. There’s a beach restaurant serving classic coastal snacks, and an Asian-inspired restaurant when you feel like something different. On Fridays there’s a popular brunch to rival those in Dubai at Beach Pavilion, where you can get fresh seafood and grilled dishes. The breakfast buffet at Al Khiran is a major highlight of Al Bustan’s dining, with all the usual hot and cold dishes plus a small selection of pork options.
The hotel is in a great location so don’t miss the chance to get out and explore. The country of Oman is really driveable and nearby you’ll find the Hajar Mountains, the dunes of Wahiba Sands, Muscat and the Ras al-Jinz turtle conservancy. If you don’t fancy driving yourself we can arrange a chauffeur-driven tour.
When to travel
| Month | Temp(C) |
Sun(hrs) |
Rain(mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
Jan |
21 | 9 | 12 |
Feb |
21 | 11 | 24 |
Mar |
25 | 11 | 15 |
Apr |
29 | 11 | 17 |
May |
34 | 13 | 7 |
Jun |
35 | 13 | 1 |
Jul |
34 | 12 | 0 |
Aug |
32 | 12 | 1 |
Sep |
31 | 12 | 0 |
Oct |
29 | 11 | 1 |
Nov |
25 | 11 | 6 |
Dec |
22 | 10 | 13 |