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Discover the captivating beauty of Oman’s Damask rose harvest at Alila Jabal Akhdar, where the season comes to life through an array of handpicked experiences
Every year, from late March to mid-May, a quiet change takes place in the heights of Al Jabal Al Akhdar. The rugged grandeur of Oman’s Green Mountains softens into a breathtaking canvas of pink hues, as thousands of Damask roses bloom across its terraced slopes.
At 2,000 metres above sea level, Alila Jabal Akhdar offers an uninterrupted view of this extraordinary contrast, where the peaks of the Al Hajar range momentarily give way to the vibrant hues of the region’s famed roses.
To honour this transient season, Alila Jabal Akhdar invites guests to immerse themselves in The Rose Experience—a curated journey into the beauty, tradition, and sensory richness of the mountain’s celebrated rose harvest.
A Walk Among Blossoming Terrace
The journey begins with a guided walk through Alila Jabal Akhdar’s own rose gardens, before meandering through the legendary terrace that paints the mountainside in a tinge of pink.
Here, against the backdrop of the cliff, petals unravel in the morning sun, filling the fresh mountain air with their sweet perfume.
Uncover Omani Heritage
Beyond the terrace, in a nearby village, a local guide reveals the deep ties between these blooms and the people who have nurtured them for centuries. The immersive tour offers a glimpse into the traditional harvest customs and the significance of rose water in local culture. Every story is a tale of devotion, resilience, and an unbreakable bond with the land.
The Art of Rose Water
Stepping inside a village home, guests accompany the locals on the age-old process of alchemy to distill rose water. The Damask rose is heated in copper cauldrons, and as steam rises, the petals offer their gift: the purest rose water.
The rose water is revered for its delicate scent and therapeutic qualities. It is both an intricate and intuitive process, perfected through generations of craftsmanship.
A Ritual of Renewal at Spa Alila
To bring the experience full circle, Spa Alila presents the Rose Ritual—an indulgent spa treatment where guests can enjoy the nourishing properties of Damask rose oils. A fitting finale to the journey, this signature therapy soothes the senses, eases tension, and leaves the skin infused with the fragrance of the roses.
The Rose Experience at Alila Jabal Akhdar is a rare encounter between the mountain’s rugged slopes and the fleeting beauty of the flower. The blooming season is an invitation to witness the charm of Oman’s Damask roses, the perfect blend of nature, culture, and craftsmanship.
For more information about Alila Jabal Akhdar and its sustainability initiatives, visit www.alilajabalakhdar.com
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