Some hotels have an atmosphere that transforms a simple stay into an experience. Dar Tantora is one of those timeless discoveries.
“Dar” is house in Arabic. And it is precisely in the former homes of the Saudis that the Dar Tantora hotel invites you to stay. In AlUla, Saudi Arabia’s new hot destination, the hotel is the first to set up in the historic district, on the Incense Route, and to offer a unique cultural experience. Here, no electric lighting or air conditioning, the hotel has brought a part of the old town back to life by transforming the historic raw brick dwellings into luxurious suites for travelers looking for rest or adventure, but above all traditions. The architect of the project Shahira Fahmy took care to respect the heritage of yesteryear and it is the ancient narrow streets that guide each traveler to his home. Once the traditional wooden door is pushed open, he discovers suites, each one different from the other, with a friendly lounge and shaded patio. Furniture and decorations are all locally sourced, including some items made by Madrasat Addeera, the city’s crafts school, located a few minutes from the hotel. Original frescoes even cover the walls of some of the suites and the renovation of the site respects the materials used in the past.
If the heritage of the place gives it a special atmosphere, it is at nightfall that the hotel amazes. Every evening, more than 1,700 candles are lit by hand in around twenty minutes to illuminate the alleys and rooms of Dar Tantora with a warm glow. The lanterns then recall those that residents used in the old town to light intersections. For the most authentic experience, you have to do without electric light (except in the bathroom), but that’s what makes the address so charming. The hotel also does not have air conditioning, but is equipped with ceiling fans and the architecture is designed to limit the heat inside.
And it is not because the hotel pays homage to traditional buildings that comfort is left behind. Upon arrival at the hotel, visitors are warmly welcomed with a typical coffee and dates to welcome them. They are then invited to choose their favorite scent of incense so that it accompanies them in their dar. Both intimate and friendly, Dar Tantora also has a rooftop café from where you can admire the old town, the citadel and the palm grove. The restaurant, in an enchanting patio where cushions and rugs with traditional motifs mingle, reveals an ideal setting for discovering local gastronomy.
Finally, the highlight of the show: a swimming pool installed in the exceptional natural setting of the AlUla oasis. And such a view deserved to be framed. This is now done with the infinity pool which seems to extend towards the palm trees. Unless it’s just a mirage.
