I stopped by a stunningly beautiful natural site called ‘Valley of the Statues’.This journey was a hot 15-minute walk and a climb.Once I reached the bluff, a fantastic vista of the coastline was the reward.
Next, I stopped by Red Beach, one of the most spectacular beaches ever.The beach is surrounded by deep red hills and dunes.Locals set up small kiosks at the top of the hill and sell souvenirs and trinkets from the island.Be careful not to wear white, as you will end up having a red shirt later!
In the late afternoon, I arrived at Majara Residence, a 4-km journey from the dock.This gateless complex of 200 interconnected earth domes redefines the concept of hospitality architecture.Each dome, sharing a planar organisation, serves diverse functions-accommodation, public spaces, an art and design residency, a library, a concept store, a workshop, a chapel, a CSR centre, and restaurants.The domes’ fluid network of plazas, pathways, and staircases evokes a traditional organic settlement, with spatial zones defined by varied dome arrangements and evolving uses.
Wrapped in four vibrant colours that flow from floor to wall to ceiling, Majara feels like a whimsical wonderland.Wandering its paths, climbing dome roofs, and strolling to the beach for a sunset view left an indelible mark.Unlike anything I’ve ever seen, the black sand on the beach literally sparkles.
It’s a magical feeling and a beautiful end to any evening in Hormuz.I spent a night at Majara, enjoying the accommodation.Throughout the two days, I visited Typeless, a cultural and community space for residencies.I immersed myself in a local cuisine and music workshop, experiencing Hormuz’s cultural pulse within its adaptive, open-air architecture.
Hormuz Island is a testament to constructed landscapes.Its superadobe domes, modernist relics, and geological artistry create a landscape where history, creativity, and environment converge, offering architects and travellers a vibrant, unforgettable experience.
