Drive straight to Nizwa. Visit Nizwa Fort, built in the 17th century by Imam Sultan bin Saif Al Ya'rubi to guard the route to the interior. Its huge round tower dominates the town, which grew up around it. A narrow, twisting staircase, barred by heavy wooden doors studded with metal, leads to the top and a view over the whole oasis. Then walk through Nizwa Souq, known for hand-carved khanjars (Omani daggers) and silver jewellery.
Continue to Birkat Al Mouz and up the mountain road to Jabal Akhdar, about 2,000 metres above sea level and one of the most unusual places in Arabia. Enjoy the cool air. The mountain is famous for its fruit orchards, laid out in terraces along slopes fed by natural springs and falaj channels. The villages of Saiq, Wadi Bani Habib, with its old houses, and Al Ain dot the landscape. Then drive back to Muscat.
Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes.
