Luxury Escape: Saudi Arabia's Shebara and Desert Rock offer getaways
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea is undergoing a luxurious transformation, with two standout resorts leading the charge—one a desert sanctuary, the other a floating paradise. Together, they offer the ultimate weekend escape for those seeking both adventure and indulgence.
The Destination
Nestled along the northwest coast of Saudi Arabia, the Red
Sea’s jagged mountains, vast desert, and crystal-clear waters have largely
remained untouched—until now. The Red Sea Project, a groundbreaking initiative
to bring ultra-luxury travel to this stunning region, has put these natural
wonders on the map. Among its crown jewels are two resorts that promise an
unforgettable escape: Desert Rock and Shebara.
Desert Rock is a desert retreat carved directly into the
rocky cliffs, while Shebara is an exclusive island hideaway, set above the
turquoise waters in futuristic, overwater villas. Together, they provide a
perfect blend of rugged desert charm and luxurious island seclusion.
The Stays
Desert Rock
Designed by Oppenheim Architecture, Desert Rock is a
striking fusion of nature and design. Rather than building onto the landscape,
the resort is carved into the rocks, creating seamless integration with the
surroundings. The Nabatean-inspired villas offer sweeping views of the desert,
while the cave suites—hewn from the massif itself—are some of the most unique
accommodations in the world.
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Mountains
Minimalist in style, each of the 60 rooms features serene design elements, private pools, and luxurious touches like freestanding tubs, Frette linens, and gourmet minibar offerings. There are even Palatino hats and beach bags to take home as souvenirs, and soothing eye patches for bedtime relaxation.
Shebara
In contrast, Shebara—conceived by acclaimed Killa Design—is
a stunningly modern getaway. Its overwater villas, resembling floating orbs,
seem to hover above the impossibly blue water, creating an idyllic escape. For
those seeking privacy, the beach villas offer seclusion, tucked into lush
tropical foliage and accessible only by private pathways. The design of the
interiors is equally breathtaking: soft, soothing tones and a crescent-shaped
curtain that reveals a private infinity pool and sunken lounge area. Every
detail is designed for both style and practicality, allowing the design itself
to take center stage.
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The Dining
Desert Rockoffers a range of culinary experiences, from relaxed sunset drinks at The Observatory—high atop the mountain and accessible by a 630-step climb—to Michelin-starred dining at Nyra. Led by chef Osman Sezenger, Nyra blends Turkish garden-grown ingredients with local flavors, offering creative dishes like fresh lobster with sujuk gnocchi and wood-grilled octopus with pomegranate glaze.
At Shebara, the dining experience is just as exceptional. At
Solera, guests can sip non-alcoholic twists on classic cocktails while enjoying
breathtaking sunset views by the adults-only pool. For those seeking something
special, Iki.Roe, the resort’s upscale Japanese restaurant, offers a front-row
seat to the open kitchen or an alfresco table where you can watch rays glide by
beneath the clear water. Guests can also indulge in 24-hour room service and
enjoy gourmet meals without ever leaving the comfort of their villas.
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The Wellness
Both resorts are designed to encourage total disconnection
from the outside world, whether you're cycling around Desert Rock's craggy
peaks or barefoot on Shebara's sandy shores.
The Desert Rockspa, nestled in a tranquil wadi, offers a
soothing retreat. The seven treatment rooms combine traditional local therapies
with the rejuvenating power of Amara skincare products. The spa also features
unique treatments like waterbed therapy, and outside, guests can unwind by the
vitality pool or in the rooftop yoga pavilion for blissful relaxation under the
open sky.
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Shebara’s spaexperience is equally tranquil. Greeted by a
400-year-old olive tree upon arrival, you’ll find calming, neutral tones
throughout the space. Highlights include an opulent couples treatment room, a
sprawling hammam, and an outdoor vitality pool. Sun-drenched massage cabanas
dot the pristine beach, allowing guests to relax to the rhythm of the waves.
The Experiences
For those who crave adventure, Desert Rock is the place to be. The Akun Adventure Centre offers heart-racing activities like thrilling hikes, ziplines, and a via ferrata. Guided ATV and fat bike tours through the rugged desert terrain take you off the beaten path, where you can live out your own desert adventure.
Meanwhile, Shebara invites guests to explore the magical waters surrounding the island. With vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear water, snorkeling is a must. Simply step off the stairs from your overwater villa and immerse yourself in the vibrant marine life. For a deeper dive into the underwater world, embark on a sailing trip with WAMA, the resort’s dedicated team of water experts, to explore hidden coves and secluded reefs.
Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a blend of
both, these two extraordinary resorts along Saudi Arabia's Red Sea offer the
perfect escape. From the dramatic desert landscapes of Desert Rock to the
serene island beauty of Shebara, it’s clear: this is a destination that
promises both luxury and authenticity in equal measure.
Source: emirateswoman.com
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