Nestled on the Green Mountain, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort in Oman is a haven of Mediterranean-style climate, making it a perfect location for olive cultivation. This unique environment fosters a vibrant local olive oil industry, with roots tracing back to a gift of olive trees from a former King of Spain. The resort is proud to announce the return of its eagerly awaited Al Jabal Al Akhdar Olive Harvest Festival, set to take place from September 26th to 28th, 2024.
This year marks the third edition of the festival, which celebrates the region’s rich olive harvest. Guests will be immersed in a world of storytelling, live olive oil pressing demonstrations, lively competitions, children’s activities, and culinary showcases by acclaimed chefs Martin Aristondo and Riccardo Passoni.
The festival offers a chance to experience the traditions of Al Jabal Al Akhdar firsthand. Guests can participate in the olive harvest, gaining a deeper understanding of the process. Visitors can also delve into the olive oil production process at a local factory, observing the careful steps from pressing to packaging. The Local Guru will enhance the experience with immersive storytelling, providing guests with insights into olive farming and its rich heritage.
Culinary enthusiasts can anticipate a captivating lineup of live cooking demonstrations by Chefs Aristondo and Passoni. Chef Aristondo, known for his innovative take on traditional Basque cuisine, will present a three-course set menu at Al Qalaa. Meanwhile, Chef Passoni, the Executive Chef at NH Collection Milano President, will bring his refined Italian culinary style to the award-winning Bella Vista Restaurant. Their demonstrations will showcase the versatility of olives, transforming this simple ingredient into gourmet creations.
Adding to the festival’s international flair, Jorge Marcelo Robles, a distinguished Italian olive oil production expert, will join the celebrations. Mr. Robles will share the rich heritage of Italian extra virgin olive oil making and provide valuable tips on maintaining its exceptional quality. Bella Vista will feature his premium olive oil in an exclusive set menu curated by Chef Passoni, offering guests a unique dining experience infused with authentic Italian flavors.
“We are thrilled to welcome our guests to this year’s Olive Harvest Festival,” said Maren Kuehl, General Manager of Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort. “The Mediterranean-style climate of the Green Mountain creates an ideal setting for growing olives, a symbol of peace and prosperity. Our chefs will pay homage to this iconic ingredient, crafting dishes that celebrate the flavors and traditions of the region.”
Throughout September, Bella Vista restaurant will showcase a specially curated set menu inspired by the olive harvest, featuring dishes that highlight the rich flavors of local olives and olive oil. The Anantara Spa will also join the festivities, offering an indulgent olive scrub treatment, harnessing the nourishing benefits of olive oil for a rejuvenating wellness experience.
The Olive Harvest Festival at Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort is a unique celebration of culture, cuisine, and community. It invites guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions of Oman’s Green Mountain. Don’t miss this exceptional event that captures the essence of the region’s deep agricultural heritage.
