Holidaymakers looking to make the most of the summer break can head to Ras Al Khaimah for an expereince filled with fun, exploration and rejuvenation.

The Ras Al Khaimah Tourusm Development Authority has listed seven fun things to do in the emirate:

1. Ride: Horse-riding at Al Wadi Equestrian Centre
Saddling up in the early morning or late afternoon is an exciting way to discover the desert landscape of Ras Al Khaimah. The Al Wadi Equestrian Centre provides guides with an exceptional experience that takes them on an organised horse trek through 500 hectares of unspoilt nature. Be on the look out for sand gazelles, Arabian oryx and, if lucky, may even spot some desert foxes and wildcats.

Info: Open daily between 5.30am-09.30am and 4pm-8pm; 07 2067777; www.alwadiequestrian.com

2. See: Star Gazing at Al Wadi Nature Reserve
Ras Al Khaimah’s crystal clear night skies comes alive in the Al Wadi Nature Reserve with constellations, stars and planets aplenty offering a truly mesmerising experience for seasoned astrologers and amateur star gazers alike. Available through Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah, a Ritz Carlton partner hotel, the introductory star gazing sessions cover the history of ancient Greek mythology’s fascination with stars and how Arabian explorers used the formations to navigate over vast spaces.

Info: Upon request and subject to the weather ; +971 7 206 7777; rc.rktrw.experience@ritzcarlton.com

3. Sail: Al Hamra Marina & Yacht Club
There is no better way to cool off this summer than taking to water. Ras Al Khaimah’s 64km of pristine coastline provide the ideal setting to explore, relax and partake in various water-based activities. Surrounded by beautiful white beaches and serene natural lagoons, Al Hamra Marina & Yacht Club offers the perfect day out with a wide range of activities regardless of experience including sailing, diving and wakeboarding.

Info: Open daily, 24 hours; +971 7 243 2274; info@alhamramarina.com; http://www.alhamramarina.com/

4. Relax: Waldorf Astoria, Ras Al Khaimah Spa
Relax and rejuvenate in the tranquil environment of this award-winning, ‘underwater themed’ spa. The Afternoon Tea facial, an anti-aging bespoke treatment designed exclusively for Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, stimulates cell rejuvenation and is simply unmissable. As well as numerous other relaxing treatments, the spa has a variety of facilities including male and female steam rooms, a floatation bed and Waldorf Astoria's signature herbal sauna.

Info: Open daily, 9am-9pm, minimum age 16; +971 7 203 5722; rasalkhaimah.info@waldorfastoria.com

5. Learn: National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah
Be immersed into the culture and heritage of the UAE’s most northern Emirate at the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah. The museum is filled with archaeological, historical and ethnographical objects, partly donated by members of the ruling Al Qasimi family and residents of Ras Al Khaimah. This former fort was originally designed as a defensive structure to fend off the British during the Arabian Gulf Campaign between 1809 and 1819, the building was re-opened to visitors as a Museum in 1987.

Info: Visiting hours: Sat - Thur 8:00am - 6:00pm, Friday 3:00pm - 6:00pm; +971 7233 9900; nmrak@museum.rak.ae; http://www.rakheritage.rak.ae/en/pages/rakmuseum.aspx

6. Move: Sunrise and Sunset yoga at Al Wadi Desert, Ras Al Khaimah, a Ritz Carlton partner hotel
For those who'd like to start or end the day energising their mind, body and soul, Sunrise or Sunset yoga sessions at Al Wadi Desert enable guests to heighten theirsenses, flexibility and inner Zen. Suitable for all levels and abilities, yogis can connect with Arabian nature amidst the breath-taking sand dunes of the Al Wadi Nature Reserve. Sunrise yoga features a sequence of yoga poses bound into a continuous movement also known as “Sun Salutation Yoga”, whilst Sunset yoga combines meditation and yoga poses with several relaxing techniques.

Info: Open Thursday – Tuesday, Sunrise and sunset time subject to seasonality +971 7206 7777; http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/uae/al-wadi-desert/spa/yoga-and-fitness

7. Explore: Safarak Tours
Discover the fascinating Emirate in its entirety with luxury tour company, Safarak Tours. Meaning ‘Your Travel’, Safarak provide smooth explorations for visitors seeking hidden treasures, from traditional sunset picnics on top of the UAE’s highest mountain, to Ras Al Khaimah’s infamous ‘Ghost Town’, Jazirat Al Hamra. Guests can select from an extensive range of tours or select which sights they wish to pursue with a customised tour.
 
Info: Open daily; bookings@safaraktours.com; or call +971 7203 6999; www.safaraktours.com. - TradeArabia News Service