Personalized Tour of Nakhal, Thowara, and Wadi Bani Auf, from Muscat
Starting from Muscat, enjoy a day out exploring local sights in the Al Batinah region of northern Oman. First, drive west to Nakhal, and step inside the Nakhal Fort that sits on a rocky hilltop. Apart from the numerous reception rooms, browse the museum that houses historic guns among other artifacts. From the tower terrace, take in panoramic vistas of the palm-covered plains and mountains around. Next, continue onward to reach the hot springs of Ain Al Thowara nearby. Take a dip in the mineral-rich rock pools and laze by the river. Later, visit the old houses at Wadi Bani Awf. Spend time at the Snake Canyon, home to pools and paths flanked by towering cliff faces. Lastly, make your way up to the picturesque village of Balad Sayt, surrounded by the Al Hajar Mountains. Settle down for a picnic lunch and enjoy the view, before returning to your accommodation. (Duration: Full Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness level: Easy)
Explore the ‘Coastal Drive’ on Your Own
Driving along the beautiful Omani coast from Muscat to Sur, stop by the wayside at the pretty little fishing village of Tiwi for an expedition to the surrounding countryside. The village stands in an ancient valley (or wadi) that is home to traditional dwellings that have stood by the Arabian Sea for centuries. Enter the valley through the portals of an old stone fort. The landscape here is washed by mountain springs, and replete with pretty fruit orchards, plantations and emerald green fields dotted with crystal clear pools. Stroll up the path to Wadi Shab to savor a traditional lunch at a local eatery. After a satisfying meal, drive up to the spectacular Bimah Sinkhole, a limestone crater brimming with salt water from the Arabian Sea. Get back to the coastal highway for your onward journey to Sur. (Self-guided Activity; Fitness level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).
