Time Travel: Inside Banyan Tree AlUla’s Beautiful Sanctuary
Retreat into the desert dunes at the magnificent Banyan Tree AlUla sanctuary in Saudi Arabia
Utter seclusion and stillness are hard to find in the modern world, but both are present within the mesmerising desert paradise that is Banyan Tree AlUla. One of Saudi Arabia’s most enchanting and unique resorts, Banyan Tree AlUla is set deep inside the Ashar Valley, far away from the trials and tribulations of everyday life. Easy to reach via a short flight from either Dubai, Riyadh or Jeddah, this romantic all-villa resort blends beautifully into the stunning terracotta-coloured rock formations and majestic golden sands of AlUla, known as the world’s largest living museum and undoubtedly one of the country’s most impressive tourism attractions.
Once here, you’ll find privacy in the resort’s villas that are designed in the Nabataean style and tastefully enhanced with authentic handcrafted antiques inspired by AlUla’s heritage. One, two and three bedroom villas are available and all provide views of the mysterious desert that lies beyond. External fire pits, outdoor dining areas, private plunge pools, and sweeping sand-coloured canvas canopies overhead are just a few of the luxurious features that make a stay in these villas so unforgettable.
Three philosophies form the foundation of a visit to Banyan Tree AlUla. ‘In-villa’ provides guests with bespoke experiences in dining, wellbeing and entertainment. ‘In-valley’ invites visitors into the natural surroundings through outdoor treatments, nomadic chef’s tables, active adventures, and private events staged in spectacular settings. Lastly, ‘En-voyage’ takes guests through privileged immersions crafted with local talents, continuously unlocking new facets of AlUla’s rich heritage.
After spending time at Banyan Tree AlUla and engaging in some of the sunset and sunrise activities that give guests a taste of the Bedouin lifestyle, you’ll soon find yourself in a blissful state. But if you want to delve deeper into tranquility, book a treatment at the resort’s spa. The heavenly Banyan Tree AlUla Spa uses natural ingredients to provide a holistic series of treatments based on traditional Asian wellbeing and healing therapies.
Banyan Tree AlUla has two fine dining restaurants led by executive chef Ricardo Lujan from Mexico who has almost 20 years of experience with leading five-star luxury brands. Ricardo’s creativity and innovation are brought to life by his fondness for ancestral ingredients. At Saffron, Banyan Tree’s signature Thai restaurant, every meal is a gastronomical journey that envelops diners in contemporary and authentic flavours from Thailand.
Harrat, meanwhile, showcases a variety of mouthwatering Middle Eastern cuisine in a setting that is more than just a restaurant. Harrat is a multi-sensory experience that immerses guests in a space inspired by desert culture and decorated with locally made handicrafts. Magical and mysterious, Banyan Tree AlUla invites guests to enjoy Saudi Arabia’s stunning natural landscape and reawaken their senses in a location that is truly special.
For more information visit banyantree.com
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