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AlUla has been a meeting point for historic civilizations for countless years. The much-anticipated Banyan Tree AlUla, the newest address in the historical area, was inspired by the region’s rich history and cultural significance.
With the stunning AlUla UNESCO World Heritage background.
This magnificent desert resort uses the setting as its core inspiration to create a stay where visitors can unwind and genuinely enjoy the surrounding natural beauty, complemented with five-star indulgences to make it truly unique.
We look around the property and give you the lowdown on Banyan Tree AlUla.
The location
Banyan Tree AlUla is in a tidy neighborhood in Ashar Valley, 45 minutes drive from AlUla Airport. The well-known wellness company from Thailand has given the current Ashar Resort a much-needed facelift.
It is also preserving its luxurious Bedouin aesthetic. Although taking scenic buggy rides from one side to the other is simple, the resort’s 300-hectare site necessitates a north and south side.
The large layout creates a sense of remoteness while emphasizing the size of these golden sands’ expanse. The spaciousness is immediately apparent.
Despite this comfortable sense of isolation, AlUla’s greatest assets are all relatively close. Hegra is a 15-minute away, and Maraya Hall is visible from the resort.
The look and feel
Although there were a few hiccups during the first week of operation, the service was excellent, thanks to the team’s friendly and sincere welcome.
Two restaurants, every guest house, and the welcome pavilions have an organic feel. The furnishings are manufactured and sourced locally. Something is intriguing to look at and enjoy around every corner.
The three guiding concepts of the resort’s construction—in-villa, in-vley, and en-voyage—enable visitors to take in the resort itself and the universe of wonders ahead in greater AlUla.
The in-villa experience ensures guests have access to all the pleasures of a five-star resort in their private spaces. The in-valley experience invites guests to use the resort’s many attractions.
The en-voyage component focuses on assisting visitors to fully immerse in the area and the local culture while simultaneously revealing new facets of AlUla’s rich legacy.
The rooms
The resort’s accommodations are all villas, ranging in size from a modest 77 square meters for a one-bedroom villa to a regal 240 square meters for a three-bedroom villa sleeping six people.
All villas share the same earthy color scheme of warm creams, terracotta, and sand indicative of the surroundings. They have floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the undulating desert.
You won’t find a single piece of plastic in the villa. Even the toiletries are made of wood and packaged in cardboard.
The sustainability focus, a fundamental pillar of the Banyan Tree brand, is commendable despite apparent obstacles.
These villas sparkle outside, with a fire pit that can get lit after sunset so visitors can cozy up. Take in the beauty of their surroundings under the stars and a spacious lounging area on the terrace.
Many rooms also feature private pools, allowing visitors to relax in the seclusion of their accommodations. However, swimming in the resort’s breathtaking Rock Pool, tucked amid craggy rocks, is a must-do activity.
Facilities and activities
At Banyan Tree AlUla, it would be simple to unwind. There is also much to do for those who want to explore various activities.
A helicopter flight to observe AlUla from a different angle is one adventurous activity that the guest experience staff can suggest.
There are also thrilling activities like ziplining and rock climbing. To fully engage visitors in the local culture and rich history, guided hikes, excursions to Old Town, and visits to attractions like Hegra, Elephant Rock, and Jabal Ikmah can all get organized.
Back on-site, the resort has expanded an outstanding schedule of activities, including stargazing and horseback riding with local guides.
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However, there is a strong emphasis on wellness. It is standard with Banyan Tree. Even the spa blends in with its surroundings.
The resort’s central Rock Pool, tucked between two rock formations and surrounded by plush loungers, is best experienced at sunrise and sunset when the sun’s rays warm the temperature-controlled water.
The spa has several treatment rooms, including a couple’s room where only massages are provided. However, a more comprehensive selection of services, such as wraps, scrubs, and facials, will soon be available to visitors.
Food
Banyan Tree AlUla has two on-site restaurants for guests to enjoy. However, for extended stays, guests are urged to visit surrounding establishments.
Such as Jason Atherton’s Maraya Social, or travel a little farther for Greek food with a view at Okto, positioned atop Harrat’s viewing point.
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Saffron Restaurant, a signature Thai restaurant, enjoys breathtaking views from the north pavilion of Banyan Tree AlUla. With locally-inspired breakfast dishes, panoramic desert vistas, and a lunch menu that offers a variety of healthy juices and mocktails.
Room rates
A Dune One Bedroom Villa’s opening nightly rates start at Dhs5,386 (without taxes and fees). The same villa with a private pool costs Dhs7,384.
Verdict
Since every aspect of the guest experience at Banyan Tree AlUla gets meticulously planned, it is a true refuge for the senses.
It’s a magnificent, abundant base to take advantage of the many activities available across the AlUla environment.
It is a spot to escape immediately after a day of adventure.
- Banyan Tree AlUla,
- Ashar Valley, AlUla, Saudi Arabia.
- Tel: (966) 14 512 0000,
- banyantree.com
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