Review: Experience authentic Arabian luxury at Dar Tantora The House Hotel
Tucked at the entrance of AlUla’s Old Town, history and culture are not hard to come by at this distinctive property
Location: Tucked at the entrance to the labyrinthine streets of the Old Town – a cultural hub steeped in ancient history – you’d be hard-pressed to find a more authentically Arabian stay while in AlUla. Opposite the hotel is the sprawling Oasis, a sanctuary of date palms and citrus trees, offering cooling shade from the heat of the desert. AlUla airport is 30 minutes away, with good airlift from Dubai and Doha.
First impressions: Ushered into the property by beaming staff, I’m led to a rooftop terrace basking in the mid-morning sun for a welcome ceremony. The space is bedecked with arabesque patterns in vivid reds and warm oranges, while traditional Arabian music plays softly. Fragrant incense fills the air as I’m presented with a tray of scents – vanilla, rose, tobacco and coffee – and asked to choose which one I would like to burn in my room at turndown. Juicy medjool dates and cardamom coffee awaken my taste buds, while a cool towel refreshes my skin. This is a property that truly celebrates its local culture.
The facts: Opened in May, Dar Tantora is the first hotel in the Old Town to be renovated from the 800-year-old mudbrick houses that were once an important stop along the incense trading route through the Arabian Peninsula. It features 30 dars (homes) in four categories, all furnished with colourful patterned pouffes and rugs, ceramic vases and antique fixtures. The rooftop infinity pool is a particular draw, thanks to its breathtaking views of the surrounding rock formations. There is also an all-day restaurant, spa, cigar lounge and cafe. As part of Dar Tantora’s dedication to reducing energy usage, every evening some 1,700 candles are lit, creating an entrancing glow. Until recently, the rooms were almost entirely illuminated by candles, but the hotel has now added electricity for extra visibility. While we appreciate the hotel’s eco-conscious approach, it does mean there is no air-conditioning – only ceiling fans – which means the best time of year to visit is from October to March, when temperatures are lower.
Ideal for: Travellers who want to immerse themselves in AlUla’s culture and history.
Explore: Book a tour with a local rawi (storyteller) to step back in time and learn about the Old Town and the region’s storied past. In the evenings, the streets surrounding the hotel come to life as coffee shops, restaurants and markets welcome locals and tourists alike.
Wow: All-day restaurant Joontos, set in an open-air courtyard, offers a sharing-style menu, with traditional Middle Eastern dishes made using ingredients sourced from the Oasis.
Book it: Rates start from £427 per night plus taxes, based on two people staying in a Dar Al Luban room including breakfast.
dartantora.co
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