From beachside bays to mountain stays and snow-filled days, here’s our suggestions for Winter escapes from the UAE
Oman
Alila Hinu Bay
Alila Hinu Bay is a boutique beachfront eco-resort in Mirbat that is set where the ‘sea and mountain hug’, boasting a stunning blue bay, an unparalleled private beachfront and luxurious artisanal living. Hailed as one of Salalah’s hidden gems, the picturesque property invites GCC residents to escape the bustle of city life and take advantage of a fabulous offer, revealed just in time for the upcoming UAE National Day.
The enticing experience at this undisturbed haven of nature includes an overnight stay, daily breakfast for two persons, resort credit and complimentary resort and kids activities. Gastronomy features a line-up of exquisite dishes from locally-sourced and sustainable concepts. Embark on a harmonious journey of land, sea and sky in the heart of Dhofar, Oman; and reconnect with nature, surrounded by mindful luxury.
GCC Special CC residents from OMR90 onwards per night (inclusive of a Terrace Room, daily breakfast for two persons, resort credit of OMR25 per night, complimentary resort and Play Alila Kids activities). Valid ID to be presented upon check-in. Visit the website and Instagram. Call +9682 337 3350 or email reservations.hinubay@alilahotels.com.
Read more here.
Maldives
W Maldives
Enjoy the island life and book a stay at any one of the 77 villas at W Maldives, either on the beach or overwater. Whether you prefer to slip into the ocean for a cooling dip from the deck of your overwater bungalow or tropical foliage and sand to sink your toes in by a beach bungalow, you are assured of a spectacular stay surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Maldives.
Dining options are creatively dispersed around the island; and include restaurants and lounges featuring freshly-caught seafood, barbecue, grills and comforting classics. Make it extra special with a private dining experience on a pristine coral terrace, complete with the sounds of the ocean lapping on the seashore.
Visit the website.
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa
Escape to the luxurious JW Marriott Resort & Spa for an idyllic family holiday. Opt to stay in overwater villas or beach villas with plush interiors, private pools and decks with striking views of the vast ocean. Spoilt for choice, guests are called to delight their palate with sumptuous Japanese, Italian and global cuisine, along with treetop dining and buffet breakfasts.
The property offers numerous activities to keep the adults busy, including snorkelling, scuba diving and sailing. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating beauty, massage or wellness therapy treatment; while the kids have their own adventures at the Little Griffins kids’ club.
Visit the website.
The Nautilus Beach & Ocean Houses Maldives
Nestled amidst the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its rich marine life and outstanding diving spots, The Nautilus Maldives 5-star resort is a luxurious bohemian hideaway in the Maldives. Boasting a collection of just 26 private beach and ocean living spaces, guests to the island are promised an extraordinary escape.
Veering off script and operating by the notion of no clocks, no schedules, no opening or closing times, dine to your own rhythm with Mediterranean and Arabic cuisine at Zeytoun, Japanese and Latin-American creations at Ocaso, or global indulgences at Thyme.
Visit the website.
Seychelles
Raffles Seychelles
The luxury Raffles Seychelles invites guests to relax and unwind with a special escape just a short flight away. Stay in one or two-bedroom villas with garden, ocean, or panoramic views; or book one of the resort’s unique two-bedroom beachfront villas. Enjoy private plunge pools, outdoor pavilions where you can soak in the sunshine, daily breakfast for two and more.
Experience a diverse selection of culinary fare, ranging from light bites and treats poolside to heartier dishes at any one of the property’s restaurants.
AED4999 onwards per night. Visit the website.
Thailand
Anantara Hua Hin Resort
Located only a few hours’ drive south of Bangkok, Anantara Hua Hin Resort a tropical paradise set amidst lush greenery-filled grounds. Choose from premium rooms that are set in a series of low-rise buildings across the resort’s gardens or opt to stay in suites perched over lotus-filled lagoons, in the treetops, or facing the ocean.
When the hunger pangs strike, dine on grilled, locally caught seafood overlooking the ocean; or tuck into Thai specialities poolside. Set time aside to relax in the property’s award-winning spa set within a lagoon-inspired oasis.
Visit the website.
Switzerland
Ultima Gstaad
Looking for a colder winter season? This award-winning, ultra-luxurious boutique hotel in the Swiss Alps has revealed what guests can look forward to in their forthcoming winter season, beginning on December 10. Each space is crafted for snug evenings after a day of skiing in the mountains with cosy fireplaces, lavish amenities and breathtaking views of Alps. You can also expect newly designed suites, state-of-the-art technologies and bespoke interiors and furnishings.
The Ultima Gstaad Restaurant has been renovated to match the hotel’s iconic lobby, now offering a new seasonal menu; together with vibrant Nikkei cuisine, which sees Peruvian ingredients prepared using traditional Japanese techniques. You can also find rejuvenation offerings, including new holistic and anti-aging treatments.
Visit the website.
