Banyan Tree AlUla

AlUla, Saudi Arabia

There’s seclusion, then there’s Banyan Tree AlUla. Deep within the ancient Ashar Valley, the sun-bleached retreat is immersed within an otherworldly desertscape defined by rugged rock formations, canyons and plains daubed with date palms. To say it’s ‘dramatic’ is to do a disservice to such an unfathomable scene: it's an archaeological hotbed dating back some 200,000 years. By comparison, tourism to the region is fledgling, having only truly opened up in 2019. But those bold enough to break ground in this living museum are certainly setting the tone. Comprising 79 villas, design cues are drawn from the ever-evolving colourways of the surrounds. Pared back in nature, Arabian textiles and antiques, floor-to-ceiling windows and jaw-slackening vistas are emblematic. Sitting under a tented canopy, the majority of villas come with their own pool – a true oasis in such extreme climes. Typical of the group, the spa is best-in-class, fusing native ingredients and holistic practices. By day, desert escapades undulate from rock climbing to ziplining, heritage sites to hiking. Alternatively you could always just lounge poolside; set between two majestic cliff faces, the pool itself is perhaps one of the world’s most staggering. Elsewhere, flavours of the region are harnessed at restaurant Harrat, while the brand’s Thai roots are to the fore at Saffron.

Key Information

• Rooms: 79
• Starting Rate: $804
• Dining: Saffron
• At the Hotel: Spa, pool, gym, destination dining, culture and heritage tours, stargazing, rock climbing, zipline, yoga, sound baths, private host, horse riding, event space
• 966145120000
• Visit Banyan Tree AlUla's Website

Location

Wadi Ashar, Tabuk Road, AlUla, 43563