About 120 kilometres from Dubai International Airport, Hatta is a tiny exclave of the emirate that's been busy making a name for itself as a great choice for a weekend escape.
Home to Hatta Wadi Hub, it's popular with adventurers who come to try a host of activities such as mountain biking, archery, zorbing and trekking.
It also has an expanding collection of accommodation options such as chalets, trailers and camping sites. The latest options to join the scene are four farmhouses, which are dotted across town.
The farmstays offer plenty of outdoor space and some come with private swimming pools, BBQ sites and children's play areas. Catering to larger groups or families, these authentic farmhouses are a world away from the bustle of Dubai's big-city life.
For a short break that offers mountain views, plenty of space and the chance to slow things down, here's everything you need to know about Hatta's farmhouse hotels.
The Palm House Hatta
The Palm House Hatta is a beautifully converted four-bedroom farmhouse that's surrounded by lush gardens. Recent renovations mean this place is an ideal fusion of traditional farmhouse vibes blended with a modern twist. There's a private pool – ideal for soaking up the Hatta rays – and a fully fitted kitchen and dining area, making it a good choice for anyone planning a big family get-together. The Palm House sleeps up to 10 people and has a majlis area for entertaining. It's a good pick for children with chalkboard walls perfect for drawing on, a sand-covered play area and even some resident horses that you can pet. There's also a games room with a snooker table to keep the adults entertained. In winter, the farm is semi-dog friendly, meaning you're welcome to bring pets along but they're not allowed inside the house, only in the gardens.
Rates start from Dh2,000 (weekdays), Dh2,500 (weekends); @thepalmhousehatta
The Reef Farm
This spot has three bedrooms but can sleep up to 15 people at a push thanks to a plethora of sofa beds and couches in the lounge areas. There's also a covered swimming pool. Inside, its simple furnishings make the Reef Farm a good pick if you're looking to stay in an authentic Hatta-style farmhouse. It's located at the bottom of the mountains and has sprawling gardens that are ideal for taking in some of that fresh air.
Rates start from Dh1,500 (weekdays), Dh2,000 (weekends); visithatta.com for more information
Happiness Farm
Happiness Farm is near the JA Hatta Fort Hotel, about five minutes further along the Dubai-Hatta Road. There are four bedrooms, but the farm can sleep up to 16 people. The decor is busy but quaint, and children will be happy in the outdoor play area while grown-ups can enjoy the games room complete with a pool table, air hockey table and a dartboard. The garden is a great place to while away an afternoon and enjoy alfresco dining, as it comes fitted with a tandoor oven. If you visit at the right time of year, you can pluck fresh fruit right off the trees. It's a great location if you're planning to visit Hatta Wadi Hub and Tanoor Laham is nearby for dinner.
Rates average $626 (Dh2,298) per night for the whole farmhouse; www.airbnb.com
Sunrise Farm
This little farmhouse is a good choice if you want to make the most of Hatta's gorgeous greenery. As well as an outdoor pool on an elevated platform, there's a huge alfresco majlis with amazing views of the pool, palm trees and mountain range. Inside there's sleeping space for up to six people, and you can even bring your dog along with you. There's a small kitchen for prepping meals or you can grill up a feast on the barbecue. If you visit in the colder months, the firepit area will make sure everyone is warm enough to sit outside and take advantage of the incredible stargazing on offer.
Rates average Dh1,000 (weekdays), Dh1,500 (weekends); email info@amaken.ae
