Nestled in the majestic mountains of Ras Al-Khaimah, the breath-taking Jebel Jais awaits intrepid explorers ready to embark on an exhilarating journey
BY AKANKSHA DEAN
I trade the bustling chaos of city life for the tranquil embrace of nature. With an enticing itinerary crafted for adventure and culture, I venture into the highest peaks of the UAE, where each moment unfurls new thrills and picturesque landscapes.
The first pink rays of dawn tiptoe over The Cove Rotana Resort, and I wake up to the soothing symphony of the sea. The promise of adventure rings in the air as I tuck into a breakfast spread that’s nothing short of a feast. Think freshly baked Arabic pastries, exotic fruits, and Shakshuka’s cooked to perfection.
With my taste buds tantalised and my excitement piqued, I gear up for the day’s escapade: a journey to Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain and adventure hotspot.
ADRENALINE RUSH
Rolling up to Jebel Jais feels like arriving at nature’s theme park. The enthusiastic guide greets me with broad smiles and boundless energy, ready to lead our intrepid group up the winding trails. As we hike, I’m overwhelmed by the scenery – verdant terraces punctuated by dramatic rocky outcrops. Each step unfolds a panoramic masterpiece, a blend of emerald greens and rugged greys extending as far as the eye can see. It’s a natural tapestry that commands awe and admiration.
And just when I think the day can’t get any better, it’s time for an even bigger adrenaline rush: the Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline. Strapping into the harness, I remember reading that this zipline sees you reaching speeds up to 150 km/h. With a reassuring nod from the guide, I launch into the void.
The immediate rush of wind, the dizzying heights, and the spectacular panorama beneath me create an unforgettable cocktail of excitement.
I am flying, suspended in a moment that’s almost too exhilarating to comprehend. I capture it all with a borrowed GoPro – the meal, the mountains, the exhilarating sense of being on top of the world.
As the cool breeze tousles my hair, I can’t help but think: this, right here, is what adventure feels like. But the crescendo of the day isn’t just the hike or the flight. It’s also the Jais Sledder. Imagine a toboggan ride on steroids – 1,840 meters of sleek stainless-steel track. You strap in, and before you know it, you are hurtling down the mountainside. The sheer speed and the twists and turns of the ride ensure a shared symphony of joy and exhilaration.
ELEVATED FLAVOURS, EPIC VIEWS
Naturally, all this excitement works up an appetite. The solution? Lunch at 1484 by Puro, nestled at a dizzying 1,484 meters above sea level, making it the highest restaurant in the UAE. As I bite into their famed truffle fries and savour a perfectly cooked Shawarma, the view is nothing short of cinematic. The rugged Hajar Mountains stretch infinitely under a brilliant blue sky, their jagged peaks telling tales of ancient geological drama.
As the sun dips, painting the sky in dusky hues, I return to The Cove Rotana Resort for a much-needed dinner. My heart still races with the thrills of this day, and my mind is a kaleidoscope of vivid memories.
It’s been a stay of more than just adventure; it’s been a deep dive into both the wilds of nature and the depths of my own spirit – a reminder of travel’s power to both invigorate and inspire.
And, as I prepare to move on to my next few days at Ras Al-Khaimah, my soul feels fuller, enriched by the beauty of Jebel Jais. Every mountain scaled and every thrill embraced has become a part of my story – a story that will resonate within me long after the trip has ended.
