After years of being closed to foreigners, the ancient city of Al-Ula, which lies in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s north-western desert, is greeting visitors and embarking them on a journey 800 years back in time. Virtually intact and meticulously restored, this oasis illustrates a prosperous period for the city, whose economy thrived on the trade in silk, spices and incense. The hotel is a time capsule in which every element is inspired by local craftsmanship and know-how. And even though there’s Wi-Fi in all the rooms, the cuisine is made exclusively with wood fires, and as dusk falls, candles take over the darkness. Boasting a stunning stone pool for lounging in, the resort offers a complete change of scenery that’s hard to beat.