Oman is such a varied destination and offers everything from mountains and desert to beautiful coastline. Whether you are keen for adventure or simply up for a spot of exploring, a combination of all three can make for a memorable holiday to the jewel of Arabia.There is no better way to explore the different landscapes than in a comfortable 4×4 with a knowledgeable driver/guide. As you drive inland from Muscat, you will pass by many ancient buildings and forts including the well-known Nizwa Fort, built in the 17th century. If you arrive in Nizwa early on a Friday, you can wander around the famous animal market which starts at dawn. It’s also worth a stop at the village of Birkat al Mouz, now almost deserted but full of lush banana and date plantations.The spectacular Hajar mountain range is one of the many highlights of Oman, and at the centre of the range sits the magnificent Jebel Akhdar or ‘green mountain’. A couple of nights here is recommended to explore the breathtaking scenery, before finishing off with a night in the impressive Wahiba Sands desert. Home to rolling sand dunes, some reaching 300 feet high, this is the epitome of Arabia. For the more adventurous, this is perfect opportunity to enjoy some daring dune basing on sand-boards. Others may enjoy a more gentle camel trek at sunset before an evening of entertainment and music at camp.
When considering a holiday to Oman, it is easy to forget about the Musandam Peninsula, located on the Northern tip of Oman (and in fact reached from Dubai rather than Muscat). However, the remote exclave of Musandam features some of the most dramatic scenery in Arabia and as a result, has attracted one of Oman’s top hotels, owned by the well-regarded Six Senses brand.
Wedged between mountains and oceans, Muscat is arguably one of the most scenic cities of the Middle East and yet still remains as one of the least discovered. It is now home to three superb luxury hotels – The chic and minimalist Chedi, the newly refurbished Al-Bustan and the well-positioned Shangri-La offering three hotels in total to cater for families and honeymooners alike.
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