In the Fujairah Emirate we were lucky enough to be invited to spend a weekend at the luxury camp The Retreat, a green oasis surrounded by mountains just a step away from the Oman Gulf.
The camp was built to encourage and develope different kinds of exciting adventures including exploration and camping activities in the Northern and Eastern regions of the United Arab Emirates.
The focus is also in the preservation of the stunning natural resources available in this region.
The place has been hand-crafted using natural materials from the surrounding areas. It was specifically designed to blend with the natural surroundings and it emphazises the local areas heritage and culture. For example, all the stones used in building are natural rough stones and also a blend of waste materials and natural palm sticks to ensure the most sustainable and environmentally friendly camp.
All the small details have been considered. The lights are low carbon printed to adhere to ecofriendly stardards. They also use special purifying systems to convert salt water into fresh water for the camp use.
When eating organic, all the home-grown organic foods are treated organically from the start to the end. Only organic fertilizer for the highest quality are used.
The variety of trees (including fruit-bearing) in the location is just amazing : fig, sour orange, sweet orange, papaya, banana, lemon and moringh trees are used to provide the guests with not only a healthy supply of fresh fruit throughout their stay but also in home-made healthy teas and soups freshly prepared breakfast.
The vegetable garden provides with peppermint, wailed thyme, Italian basil, cucumber, tomatoes, green peppers, eggplant, zucchini, pumpkin and onions all grown to tantalize your taste. All of them are served in the sumptous grilled Arab dinner.
All the units are built with natural wood and canvas to encourage peace of mind. Certified anti bacteria sheets and covers are exclusively imported for the retreat camp.
All furniture is made with mixture wood and natural raw material exclusively designed and fabricated for the camp and there are no air conditioners, only fans.
The general idea is to stay naturally active : reading, walking, meditating, listening to music, touring around, for example, taking a refreshing dip in the Gulf and the nearby endless beach.
Guided walks to Bidya Mosque (UAE’s oldest mosque) and to the two Portughese watchtowers are some of the many attractions that you can find in this absolutely unique place. Of course, many locals and foreigners from nearby countries already know this charming hide away. But also, gradually, people from all over the world, including local and international celebrities, are getting to know all the fantastic and unique services that The Retreat can offer.
We invite you to travel to this extremely charming, seductive and singular camp where you can be in retreat and peace and at the same time enjoy its different choices. A piece of Arabian land whose days and nights you will never forget !!!!
Women in Move / Editora Carmen Álvarez
