Review: Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay

Looking down from this pinnacle (and hoping that other cars aren't coming from the opposite direction!), the resort lies beneath you, tranquilly basking on the shores of the sea.

And that is Six Senses first Arabian project's key selling point.

The complex is modelled on a traditional Omani village, and the 79 pool villas, plus the Private Reserve (catering to large groups), and two Retreats (again, for families or bigger parties) lie pleasantly serene under the Gulf sun.

Private cars are not allowed on the road leading to the resort, so there are no day-trippers. Everyone at Zighy Bay is either a guest or works there.

The atmosphere is relaxed and rustic. The villas are built with local stone and the whole complex is a blend of earthy whites and browns.

Holistic approach

The feel is one of getting back in touch with nature. Each villa has a set of his and hers bicycles to get to and fro, and the doorbells are quite literally just that - bells inside the front door, attached to the gate by a rope pulley system.

The in-villa finishings are a mixture of stone and wood. The oversize bath and indoor (and outdoor!) shower facilities are stone, complemented by cane and wood accessories.

Each villa has its own infinity pool in its private compound (each also has its own butler service) and some open up directly onto the sea.

The main hospitality complex also has a shared pool, as well as an onsite wine cellar, spa retreat - offering signature holistic treatments - artisan gallery (with a range of Zighy goods on offer - it is apparently possible to buy anything that you have in your villa) and a small DVD and book library in a range of languages.

The one small, and it is small, gripe is that options for eating out are rather limited. At the time of visiting, guests only had access to 'Dining on the sand', which also hosts the breakfast buffet. This features one different style of cuisine every day, but if that didn't take your fancy the only alternative was the in-villa dining option.

'Dining on the Edge' is, however, about to open. This sits right at the top of the mountain coming into the resort and will offer amazing views - and a great place for pre-dinner sundowners. There is also a speciality seafood restaurant planned.

A couple's getaway

This is also from where the more adventurous guests can paraglide into the resort, if driving in seems a little too staid (your luggage meets you at the bottom). There is also the option of arriving by speed boat from the local port rather than being chauffeured in.

This exemplifies the type of guest that the resort is aiming at. There are no children's activities or accessories on offer, so, although kids are welcome, this is more of a couple's getaway.

This is also backed up by the fact that the majority of villas will only accommodate two people. Any more than that and you have to take out another unit.

Overall, the resort scores highly. What to some might be seen as a turn off, the distance from the nearest cities, others will see as the main attraction. It is peaceful and relaxing, an ideal couple's tranquil getaway, so not for those looking for action.

The villas are well appointed and provide ample space, and the fact that each is sealed in its own compound with a private pool means that guests can get all the privacy that they desire.

A good choice for honeymooners, or couples seeking time alone together.