There’s nothing more calming than breathing in the crisp, clean mountain air at 2000 meters above sea level and inherently knowing that you’re in for a weekend of undisturbed tranquillity. But if you’ve booked yourself in at the dusitD2 Naseem Resort in Jabal Akhdar, that would just be a mere half of the prologue. That’s because this all-inclusive, family-favorite resort does more than just embrace you in traditional Thai hospitality that satiates the soul – it hides a number of interestingly revitalizing activities tucked inside the 75,000 sqm property.
The architecture is inspired by the surrounding nature and the resort itself is designed to seamlessly flow in harmony with its natural landscape. Amidst delicate sounds of trickling water, the main lobby also exhibits an artsy, wooden tree trunk that bears testimony to the resort’s take on nature-inspired elements. Ceiling-high, intricately carved panels that line the stairway also contribute to the overall opulence. Though the ambiance exuberates a contemporary vibe, it also receives subtle neoclassical design elements that pay tribute to the cultural identity of the Sultanate. Paintings and murals from local artists adorn the interior walls as well as the external façade.
The minimalistic, modern, and innately plush décor also governs every aspect of the adequately-furnished rooms and suites. dusitD2 has 34 sqm deluxe rooms and studios, as well as larger one, two, and three-bedroom suites. While some of the accommodations border the site where all the buzzing action lives, others offer more tranquil retreats further away. The wall-length sliding French windows of our particular suite opened to a cozy balcony and provided an up-close view of what is probably considered the most iconic feature of the property – the Adventure Park.
Undoubtedly, the most preferred spot for kids, the 8000 sqm Adventure Park also guarantees an exhilarating experience for the grown-ups too. While safety continues to remain one of the key priorities of the park, the three different levels allow climbers to choose one that suits their comfort level.
After a quick, but thorough brief from the dedicated and incredibly enthusiastic instructors at the venue, along with some sincere words of encouragement, the experience begins. While the level 1 trail, which is closest to the ground, is best suited for children between ages 7 to 11 (depending on the height), level 2 is designed for age groups 11 to 15 but is also great for adults who are just starting out. Made for advanced climbers and 8-10 meters above ground, level 3 tests not just your endurance, strength, and stamina, but also a trifle bit of your courage. Walk along tricky rope bridges, glide across on the zipline, and swing from one platform to the other – the obstacles are challenging yet exciting. The park also has a dedicated rock-climbing wall for those who might consider warming up prior.
But, if you’re not feeling ‘adventurous’ enough, there are still several other activities that you can partake in at the resort itself. The property has a dedicated gym as well as an Amusement Center where you can play basketball, try your hand at a racket game, or compete in an intense round of foosball – rest assured there is a sport that will satisfy your inner child. Other recreational activities also include a dip in the pool, a walk through serene pathways canopied by fragrant flowering trees, meditation workshops, or even cooking classes with passionate chefs.
Steering the conversation to chefs and the culinary delights they create, a probably less publicized secret is that dusitD2 Naseem Resort’s General Manager, Gerhard Stutz, was a Michelin-starred chef himself. It’s, therefore, no surprise that all three restaurants at the property excel in gastronomy. While The Veranda serves local and international cuisines in addition to authentic Thai dishes, The View is a favorite amongst diners for Arabic and Lebanese specials as well as shisha aficionados. Depending on the weather (and personal preferences, of course) diners can either opt to sit outdoors and enjoy the stunning views or pick a comfortable niche indoors. For those who prefer lounging by the pool, The Pool Bar offers the resort’s signature pizzas made with freshly sourced ingredients along with finger-friendly snacks.
A soulful destination, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, not only offers an unparalleled experience for guests but also inspires everyone, through its conduct, to embrace the concept of sustainability. Its initiatives include a dedicated water bottling plant, go-green policies, and optimum waste management procedures. With a keen focus on giving back to the community, the property also sources its food products locally, conducts farmers’ markets, and promotes tree plantations. The staff has planted over 150 fruit-bearing trees around the resort and are awaiting fruition in the right season. The team also plays an active role in the wadi clean-up initiatives in the vicinity of the property.
A modern icon located in a picturesquely privileged location, dusitD2 Naseem Resort has received a reverential nod from everyone who’s experienced its gracious Thai hospitality –a unique character that the Dusit brand is famed for.
