Leave your worries behind on the mainland as you cross over to the Mysk Kingfisher Retreat, a secluded sanctuary on Sharjah’s east coast
THE RETREAT
A private boat whisks visitors across the turquoise waters of Kalba Creek to a desert island where 20 luxury tents sit on an untamed beach. The Mysk Kingfisher Retreat is a one-of-a-kind eco-lodge in the UAE with direct access to Khor Kalba, a protected wetland that’s home to sea turtles, several rare bird species, lightning-quick ghost crabs and meditative hermit crabs.
These fascinating crustaceans build their sandcastles, scuttling down to the water every morning, and returning every evening after a day at sea. If you stay until dusk, you might just catch a glimpse of wild Arabian oryx wandering onto the beach. Once the sun goes down, settle by a bonfire on the beach with crashing waves creating a hypnotic symphony. You’ll also get marshmallows to toast.
GLAMP
Eighteen of the retreat’s tents face the Indian Ocean while two face the craggy peaks of the Hajjar mountains. The rooms are tastefully decorated in shades of beige and blue to match the surrounding environs. The bathroom is a pleasant surprise, fitted with both a huge bathtub and a stall with a rainforest showerhead, with organic bath products adding an eco-friendly touch. Guests can also rinse off under a sunny (or star-studded sky) in a private outdoor shower to the side of each tent. Every tent also comes with a spacious deck that has direct access to the beach and a private plunge pool. This is a prime spot to watch the sunrise over the water, turning the ocean from silver to a bright sapphire.
EXPLORE
Fat bikes sit outside each tent, beckoning adults and kids alike to jump on and explore. Beach clean-ups to protect marine life are encouraged and each tent has a clean-up bag and a tool to pick up litter, should you come across any while walking on the beach. Birdwatchers can borrow binoculars from the reception to get a closer look of the many birds, including the brilliantly coloured kingfisher, that have made this area home. For a more intense workout, the retreat organises a one-hour guided kayaking expedition through the more than 300-year-old mangrove forest nearby. Watch out for schools of tiny silver fish that dart through the calm waters or spot the elusive sea turtles that have returned to the safety of these forests ever since they became a protected habitat. After a day of exertion, wind down by heading to the fully-equipped spa for a rejuvenating range of therapies.
For more information, visit myskhotels.com
