by ANTARA BOSE
Now that we can safely say that winter has begun, it’s time to hit the outdoors. And what’s a day outdoor without some pool-time! If you’ve got a fascination for infinity pools but don’t want to traverse off city limits, here are 5 of our favourite infinity pools in the capital.
1. Kempinski Hotel Muscat
One of the newest properties in the city, the infinity pool at Kempinski will make you want to plan your day around it. Overlooking a tranquil beach with the pulsating Zale Beach Club strategically spaced at just the right distance, this pool perfectly blends serenity with a unique sense of vitality. Perfect for brunch, mocktails, and some sun-bathing during the day, the pool sees a surreal transformation after sunset reflecting sublime yellow hues from the well-lit property. If you’re looking for some stunning shots for your social media, you know where to head.
Location: Al Mouj (The Wave), Al Hail North, Seeb
Contact: +968 2498 5000
Website: Kempinski.com
2. The Chedi Muscat
Not undermining the credentials of the other infinity pools at this luxe property, but the Long Pool at the Chedi Muscat is one that will definitely take your breath away. So if you’re out of practice and do intend on taking laps, don’t say we didn’t warn you! Though it’s only accessible to in-house guests, dining by the pool is the next best option. At 1.6 meters deep and an incredible 103 meters length, The Chedi is home to the longest pool in the region and has been featured on dozens of travelogues.
Location: 18th November Street, Al Ghubra, Bousher
Contact: +968 2452 4400
Website: ghmhotels.com
3. Crowne Plaza Muscat
Maybe not the longest, biggest or deepest, but the double-deck infinity pool at the recently renovated Crowne Plaza Muscat definitely deserved to be on our list of favourites. And what makes it unique, you ask? Well, it’s one of the few salt-water swimming-pools you’ll find in Muscat. Located in the heart of the city overlooking the bustling Gulf beach (locally nicknamed the ‘Love Road’), the pool offers an aerial view of where the city meets the beach on one side, and a suspended terrace-dining beckoning on the other.
Location: Shatti Al Qurum, Muscat
Contact: +968 2466 0660
Website: crowneplaza.com
4. Al Bustan Palace – A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
After the much-awaited reopening, all we can say is that everything about this property has just gotten even more majestic (as if the name didn’t give it away already). Located on the longest stretch of private beach in the country, the Al Bustan Palace hotel boasts of an Olympic-size infinity pool that has the most vibrant shades of blue and green all in one frame. Swanked with palm trees on either side, fountains that add a sense of life to the pool, and a splendid view of the horizon, not diving in is a temptation that’s very hard to resist.
Location: Al Bustan Street, Muscat
Contact: +968 2479 9666
Website: ritzcarlton.com
5. Shangri-La Al Husn Resort and Spa
One of the most premium properties in Muscat, even the access to this cliff-top infinity pool is reserved only for in-house guests. But if you’re envisaging an experience that has absolute tranquillity rooted at its core, this is where you need to be. Strolling from an immaculately maintained courtyard you’ll first be welcomed with aquamarine-hued fountains that seem to lead onwards; follow the trail and a truly awe-inspiring view of the infinity pool will emerge on the horizon – a sight so admirable, it is bound to make your heart skip a beat in praise.
Location: Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa
Contact: +968 2477 6565
Website: shangri-la.com
