Pomegranate harvest has arrived on Oman’s Green Mountain. From now until early October the mountains that surround Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar are full of bright green and pink pomegranates, a fruit packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Guests can experience the season with an interactive visit to local pomegranate farms, a spa treatment that embraces the health properties of the fruit, seasonal cocktails and menus.
Situated 2,000 feet above sea level, two hours from Muscat, the area around Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar benefits from its own semi-Mediterranean micro-climate that is conducive to growing pomegranates. More than 23,000 pomegranate trees grow on the mountain top and they are the oldest and most valuable source of income for farmers in the region.
With temperatures about 15 degrees cooler than the surrounding area it is the ideal temperature to explore the fruit farms in the nearby villages of Al Aqr, Al Ayn and Ash Shirayjah. Together with the resorts local ‘Mountain Guru’, guests can meet farmers from now until the end of October and learn how to pick and cut the pomegranates from the tree, keeping the fruit they cut. The farmers will explain the season, the benefits of the fruit and where it can be used such as in jam, salads, juice and pomegranate molasses. The excursion costs 15 OMR per person (£32).
Rich in antioxidants pomegranates have long been revered for their ability to regenerate, nourish and protect skin, offering the perfect polish for a smooth and radiant body. Those in need of rejuvenation can head to the Anantara Spa for a ‘Revitalising Pomegranate Journey’, which utilises the antioxidant and anti-aging properties in a body scrub. This is followed by a foot cleansing ritual and tailored massage. During pomegranate season the spa journey will end with a refreshing pomegranate juice. 90 minutes 85 OMR (£215).
The health benefits of pomegranates can also be experienced in Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar’s culinary offering. Guests can take part in a dedicated ‘Spice Spoons’ cookery class where they will learn how to create an organic pomegranate salad and pomegranate marinated local grouper fillet. Bella Vista restaurant will be serving the organic pomegranate salad as its dish of the month in August, whilst homemade pomegranate ice cream will be served in Al Baha courtyard café and deli and pomegranate cocktails will be served in Al Burj. The Mountain Breeze cocktail combines pomegranate liqueur, with infused vodka, triple sec and fresh pomegranate juice.
Nightly rates at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort start from 140 OMR (£297) during pomegranate season, including breakfast and taxes. To book or for more information visit www.anantara.com/al-baleed-salalah