Al Bustan Palace Intercontinental Hotel - 5 Star Hotel, Muscat

On the shores of the Arabian Gulf, between a crescent moon of silver sand and a mantle of jagged mountains, the Al Bustan Palace lies in what must be o­ne of the most dramatic hotel locations imaginable. Easily reached from the Omani capital, Muscat and yet an ideal refuge in which to relax and recharge the batteries, the Al Bustan has a long standing reputation as o­ne of the best hotels in the world.

Set in 200 acres of private beach, date palm groves and tropical flower filled gardens, the hotel is a fascinating mix of traditional Islamic design and striking modern architecture. The most spectacular feature is undoubtedly the octagonal lobby in which tiled Islamic arabesque arches frame a star shaped fountain below a gold domed ceiling. At thirty-three metres high, this soaring cathedral-like atrium is exotically scented with the frankincense that was so important in Oman's early history. It is gracefully imaginative and evocative of the luxury that pervades the whole hotel.

Both the excellent service and exquisite furnishings are inspired. The Omanis are consummate hosts and no effort is spared to transform the mundane into the superb. The rooms and suites are beautifully appointed, some in Arabian style, some Continental and every private balcony has compelling views over mountains, beautifully manicured gardens or inviting waters of the bay.

Local seafood to be enjoyed al-fresco o­n the hotel's palm fringed beach, Lebanese cuisine accompanied by live entertainment or classic gourmet French in a more formal setting are just some of the dining choices for guests. The recreational opportunities are limited o­nly by the imagination; swimming in the huge temperature controlled pool that is refrigerated in the hot summer months, tennis, scuba-diving, sailing and snorkelling are but a few of the outdoor options available. Inside, there are squash courts, a well equipped gym with jacuzzi and a sauna for those who find the glorious Omani climate not quite hot enough.

The Al Bustan is indeed palatial. A lush oasis in surroundings of ethereal beauty, it is a fabulous place in which to forget reality and immerse o­neself in a little self-indulgence.

PHOTO GALLERY ExteriorExterior (2)Aerial ViewAl Maha Piano LoungeAl Marjan RestaurantArabian Deluxe RoomArabian SuiteArabian Suite BedroomAuditoriumAl Bustan Deluxe RoomGolfLobbyPoolRed Deluxe Suite BedroomRed Deluxe Suite Sitting RoomTennis

Hotel Notices

Closed For Refurbishment

The hotel is currently undergoing a dramtic refurbishment which will ensure that it re-opens to be o­ne of the most spectacular hotels in the Middle East. Opening date is 1st October 2008.

Effective From 01-Jun-07 and 01-Oct-08

Al Bustan Palace Intercontinental Hotel - Location Detail

Beach

The magnificent Al Bustan Palace. Located o­n the coast of the Gulf of Oman amid spectacular mountain scenery the Al Bustan is truly outstanding resort. Set amid 200 acres of gardens and private beach front the Al Bustan was built to entertain visiting heads of state. Appointed to the highest of standards you'll experience real luxury. Despite its secluded position hotel o­nly 4 miles west of the Muscat offering quick access to the souqs and markets of the Capital Area.

Distance to Airport

41 km

Transfer Time

35 minutes

Points of Interest

City centre: 7 km