Start at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Oman, known for its chandeliers, fine craftsmanship and the single hand-woven carpet that covers the prayer hall. Visitors are welcome Saturday to Thursday, 8:00 to 11:00, except on holidays. Women need to cover their hair, arms and legs; men should wear long trousers.
Then drive inland 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.
Drive towards Jabreen, stopping on the way for photos of Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jabreen Castle, built in the late 17th century, became a centre of Omani learning and is often called the finest castle in the country. Walk through the wali's rooms, the women's quarters, the kitchen and the majlis, under ceilings painted with Islamic motifs, and climb to the roof for the view. Then drive back to Muscat.
