...Insight
Jordan
ANCIENT KINGDOMS & DESERT SANDSCAPES
Nothing quite prepares you for how remarkable Jordan is. Be inspired by ancient kingdoms found in steep gorges and sweeping deserts that change with the wind.
From its cosmopolitan capital, Amman, to the ancient, rock-hewn city of Petra, Jordan is one surprise after another. It’s a place which will engage you as sensually as it does visually – experience the emptiness of the desert at Wadi Rum, the weightlessness of the Dead Sea and the inviting crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea.
“The beauty of Jordan is that its sights are only a few hours apart. A week in Jordan will show you its highlights, giving you a fascinating glimpse into this cultural corner of the Middle East.”
Sarah Woodthorpe
Personal Travel Designer
01488 689700 Sarah.Woodthorpe@baileyrobinson.com Read Sarah’s profile
Sea Exploration
There is sand…and then there is sea. The beauty of Jordan is that it is a compact country, with its highlights never more than a few hours apart. The Red Sea’s clear waters are a haven, alive with coral reefs offering fantastic diving and snorkelling while the buoyant Dead Sea, which with its high salt content may prohibit sea life but benefit our own with its glorious mineral qualities.
Both make a relaxed stop within an itinerary that features ancient kingdoms and sparsely beautiful deserts.
Jordan Property Spotlights
Four Seasons Hotel Amman
Set on the tallest of Amman’s seven hills is the elegant, white stone Four Seasons Amman. Comfortable and stylish, the hotel makes a sleek retreat from the maze-like streets of cosmopolitan Amman.
Rooms are spacious, furnished in a classic opulent style with fabulous views over the city. An indoor and outdoor pool plus spa means relaxation is nearby and the seductive cocktail bar makes a great pitstop before hitting the city’s chic bars and restaurants, where you’ll find a range of refined Middle Eastern cuisine.
Must do
Amman will likely be the start of your trip in Jordan and the gateway to explorations in Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. But first, get to grips with the country and learn about Jordan’s history at the Jordan Museum.
Visit the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, built in the 2nd century Ad, which is a stunning sight at sunrise or sunset.
Kempinski Hotel Ishtar
One of Jordan’s true pleasures is a soak in the Dead Sea, where relaxation can be found floating on the high mineral content water. Kick back at the five-star Kempinski Hotel Ishtar in a suite or royal villa on the hillside of this luxurious residence which has scenic views over the Dead Sea.
It’s the perfect antidote to desert escapades and exploring ruinous kingdoms. The hotel also has acres of tropical gardens which are dotted with swimming pools, waterfalls and lagoons, and in the evening you can dine at the Italian restaurant.
Must do
As tempting as it is to stay close to the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, we would recommend a trip to the Wadi Mujib – a sandstone gorge which forms part of Jordan’s most famous river canyon. Hike along river bed through the narrow gorge walls in crystal-clear ankle-height water until you reach the 20 metre high waterfall, where you can cool off under its refreshing spray.
Movenpick Petra
Located at the entrance of the historic kingdom of Petra, the Movenpick Petra hotel is ideally placed for those who want to spend time exploring the pink city. Its proximity to the site means that you can benefit from seeing the magic of Petra during the day but also at other times when crowds are noticeably thinner, for example in at sunrise or at night, when the carved rock is lit up by candle light.
Back at the hotel, there are culinary delights to enjoy including afternoon tea in the Lawrence of Arabia tea room or a cocktail accompanied by live music in the roof garden with views of Petra hills.
Must do
As Petra is located in a valley, the sun sets almost without you realising. However, if you’d like to experience the magnificent mountains change to gold, we recommend travelling to the outskirts of Wadi Musa, where its vantage point within parkland means a sensational vista of the lowering sun over the surrounding valley, peaks and city of Petra.
Wadi Rum Luxury Desert Camp
Spending a few nights in a luxury desert camp will give you time to appreciate the peaceful solitude within the desert wilderness of Wadi Rum, just over an hour from Petra. Stay at Wadi Rum Luxury Desert Camp, a mobile camp led by Bedouins who will choose the best spot for your camp, amid the red cliffs, shifting dunes and sand valleys.
Enjoy watching the sun slide behind dunes and see the inky night sky reveal twinkling stars as you bed down in a traditional yet luxurious Bedouin-style tent, complete with proper beds, ensuite bathrooms and Dead Sea toiletries.
Must do
Although there are activities abound for desert-lovers including camel rides, sand boarding and 4×4 jeep rides, we would also suggest that a hike on foot is a great way to appreciate the quiet seclusion of this rugged, ever-changing landscape.
Come back to camp and enjoy an authentic Bedouin feast with roasted meats and vegetables marinated with traditional herbs and spices.
The collection
Romantic Retreats
From sleepouts beneath the stars in South Africa to having champagne delivered by zip-line in St Lucia, we’ve hand-picked hotels that know how to deliver romance.
Booking with Bailey Robinson means access to the finest travel experiences. When planning your holiday we do all the hard work – in-depth research and meticulous organisation. You can be confident in the individual care for your holiday from your dedicated and experienced Personal Travel Designer and Concierge.
Just back from
Oman and The Maldives
Trip idea
Route Du Sud: Morocco
