Oman Magazine catches up with James Reeves, General Manager, to explore his dynamic role at the helm of the breathtaking Hotel Indigo, nestled amidst the verdant green mountains of Oman.
Hotel Indigo is known for its unique take on boutique luxury. How does the property bring the vibrant stories and traditions of Jabal Al Akhdar to life for its guests?
When I first arrived in Oman and Jabal Akhdar three years ago to visit the project in it a very raw state I knew I had to immerse myself in both Oman’s history but specifically Jabal Akhdar. I helped villagers hitchhike down the mountain to Birkat Al Mous (a pool of bananas) and sat with villagers in their homes sharing Kawa and fresh fruit, listening to their incredible stories, history and what is so special about this destination. I developed a serious passion to not just create a wonderful, reimagined guest experience, but a place where my team could retell these stories through design, art and the history of the surrounding villages.
Take our morning hikes, for instance. When we take our guests on those hikes, we immerse them in the history of where they are walking and help them to see beyond the photos that they are taking through the lens of a phone to something that is tangible and historic that sparks interest and lights up their imagination.
From our location perched on the edge of the canyon we are able to take guests on a virtual journey behind the craggy peaks to how life was on this remarkable and vast plateau where life has thrived for thousands of years. These are the kinds of connections we try to create throughout the resort which resonate with our guests.
Jabal Al Akhdar offers such a stunning natural backdrop. How does the hotel’s design and vibe connect guests with the breathtaking surroundings?
The mountain itself is really the star here. But we wanted the design to feel like a natural extension of the landscape and also for it to tell the story of Jabal Akhdar through different elements.
Each of our five floors, for instance, draws inspiration from something unique to this region – damask roses, pomegranates, saffron, and centuries-old indigo. You’ll see these themes woven throughout the spaces in subtle ways that connect you to the mountain’s heritage.
My favourite piece is the unassuming side table in every guest room. Unassuming maybe, but it is a piece of polished petrified wood that is older than the Hajar Mountain range itself, a true king of fossils surrounded by the marine fossils of Jabal Akhdar, only 100million years older!
When you walk through the property, you’re constantly reminded of where you are – whether it’s the earthy tones that mirror the mountainside or the carefully framed views of the canyons. We worked closely with local artisans to incorporate traditional craftsmanship in contemporary ways.
Today’s travelers are all about unique experiences. What are some must-try activities or hidden gems guests can look forward to during their stay?
Let me start with what makes this destination truly special – the hiking trails. We have these incredible paths that wind through historic villages and terraced orchards, each telling a different story. There’s one trail where you can spot marine fossils in the rocks including a whole sea turtle – it’s amazing to think this mountain was once under the sea. During rose season, you can walk through the hanging terraces when they’re in full bloom, close your eyes and experience their spectacular scent. Each trail offers something unique, whether you’re interested in geology, local agriculture, or just want to enjoy the elevated views and crisp mountain air.
For those interested in local culture, we arrange visits to traditional rose water distilleries, where families have been practicing these ancient techniques for generations. The abandoned villages scattered throughout the mountains are fascinating to explore – they’re like living museums that tell the story of mountain life through the centuries.
Within the hotel itself, Vue Rooftop & Lounge has become quite special. We had fun with this space – we brought up a 1983 Land Rover Defender and transformed it into a dessert truck, installed glass geodesic domes for private dining, and created a menu inspired by Oman’s historic spice trade with Zanzibar. Being the highest rooftop in the Middle East, the views of the canyons are absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunset.
And then there’s Jala Spa & Wellness, which we created as a true mountain sanctuary. The treatments blend ancient Omani wellness traditions with contemporary techniques – you can experience everything from indoor heated vitality pools to Aquamoon rainforest showers and traditional hammam treatments.
Hotel Indigo has a fresh and modern energy. How do you balance that with the timeless charm of Omani culture?
You know, it’s all about storytelling. We wanted the property to feel like a natural extension of Jabal Akhdar’s rich heritage, but with its own contemporary character. Take our art collection, for example – we’ve curated over 1,000 pieces throughout the building, each one telling a different story about this region.
There’s this wonderful wooden donkey sculpture in our lobby that always makes guests smile – it’s a playful tribute to the animals that have been essential to mountain life here for generations. And at Vue, our rooftop venue, we worked with an artist for over four months to create this stunning 25-meter mural celebrating the local flora and fauna. These details might seem small, but they help create those meaningful connections to the neighbourhood.
From dining to design, every detail feels intentional. What’s your favorite feature or offering at Hotel Indigo Jabal Al Akhdar that you think guests absolutely shouldn’t miss?
I love starting my days with an early morning hike through the mountain trails. There’s something magical about watching the light change across the canyons, and we’ve designed several guided experiences that let guests discover everything from marine fossils to abandoned villages. When you’re walking these paths, you’re literally tracing routes that mountain traders have used for centuries. If the outdoors is not your thing, we have a created a wellness space within Jala Spa where our guests can immerse themselves in complimentary sound healing, meditation or yoga. The Jala wellness studio is a place to escape, let go and recharge.
Lastly, where are your three favourite places, anywhere across the Sultanate, that tourists should pencil into their trip?
You know, what makes Oman truly special is its incredible diversity of landscapes. Wadi Ghul is a must-visit – it’s this stunning oasis nestled between dramatic cliffs, and a secret lake that feel like they’re from another world before you make your way to the Grand Canyon of the Middle East!
The Musandam Peninsula is spectacular too – they call it the ‘Norway of Arabia’ for good reason. The combination of cliffs meeting the sea, and the chance to spot dolphins playing in the waters below, makes it unforgettable.
And of course, I have to mention Jabal Akhdar itself, particularly Nizwa. The historic fort there really brings Omani history to life, and the souq is full of these wonderful traditional crafts and spices, plus the fabulous ‘Oman Across the Ages’ museum. But what really makes these places special isn’t just the landscapes – it’s the incredible warmth and hospitality of the Omani people you meet along the way.
To visit the stunning Hotel Indigo, or for more information, visit here.
