Nizwa
The capital of Oman in the early days of Islam, was the cradle of ardent intellectual activity and produced generations of Omani scientists, scholars and historians. That’s why it has been called “the egg of Islam”. Its towering historic castle still stands today as well as many forts, castles, ancient mosques and other beautiful tourist sites. Nizwa District is also famous for its many old houses.
Nizwa Fort
One of the oldest forts in Oman and lies in A'Dakhiliyah Governorate. It has a unique large round shape. Its height reaches 24 metres, with an outer diameter of 43 metres and an inner diameter of 36 metres. This fort has seven wells and multiple openings for stationing the fighters defending the fort. Nizwa Fort was built by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Y`aribi in the middle of the seventeenth century. It was this imam who expelled the Portuguese from Oman. The fort, which took 12 years to build, is linked with a castle by means of intricate corridors. Near the fort and castle is the traditional Nizwa market famous for its artefacts.
Jabal Shams
This is the highest peak in the Arabian Peninsula, rising to an altitude of 3,004 metres above sea level, and has a number of versants (slopes) and summits. Every time a tourist reaches a versant, he’ll find that it leads him to another, until he reaches the mountain peak. Life on the summit is different from what most people are used to, as the weather is mild in summer and cold in winter. Close to the peak lies a deep chasm called the "An Nakhr Balcony", one of the most beautiful places tourists visit. It is a deep ravine in the heart of the rocks that can be viewed from the top, which directly overlooks the ravine. At the bottom of the ravine rock formations chiselled into different forms by erosion lie at breathtaking depth.
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort
The highest five star resort in the middle east on the curving rim of a great canyon, is a secluded haven for the intrepid and discerning. 21 km from Nizwa, the resort features panoramic views from the cliff-edge infinity pool. Guests can enjoy free WiFi throughout the property. A total of 115 luxury rooms and villas overlook either the dramatic canyon or tranquil gardens and a spa-like bathroom complete with a rain shower. Luxury villas grant guests an intimate escape each with personal villa host services and a private infinity pool overlooking the cliffs or hidden in an exotic garden. Each villa features state-of-the-art interactive LED IPTVs and spacious walk-in dressing areas, all adding to a sense of sublime luxury. A selection of six dining venues to choose from, Al Qalaa a fine dining Arabian grill concept, Bella Vista a Roman inspired restaurant overlooking the grand canyon, Al Maisan all day dining serving world classics and cooking classes or Al Baha the café deli situated in the open air courtyard. Celebrate on Diana’s Point platform with a unique private dining experience overlooking the canyons.