Nature Reserves
Al Jabal Al-Akhdhar Sanctuary for Natural Sceneries
This rises to a height of 2,980 meters and is famous for its wide plateau close to the summit. The journey from Muscat to Al Jabal Al-Akhdar takes about two hours and can only be undertaken by four-wheel drive.
Al Jabal Al Akhdar is known for its Mediterranean climate. Temperatures drop during winter to below zero Celsius, with snow falling at times, and rise in summer to 22 degrees Celsius. Due to its location and unique weather, the Green Mountain produces a variety of fruits, such as apricots, plums, figs, grapes, apples and pears, as well as almonds, walnuts and saffron. The pomegranate that grows here is classified among the finest of its kind in the world. Spread across the mountain is many Omani villages. Villagers have dug terraces in some parts of the mountain for growing crops.
As Saleel Nature Park
The Park is located in the AL Kamil and AL Wafi Governorate in the Ash Sharqiyah Province, and lies 57 kilometers from the Governorate of Sur. It extends over an area of 220 square kilometers, and is predominantly covered by forests of acacia trees. It is home to a number of rare species such as the Arabian gazelle, the Omani wild cat (Al Senmar) and other animals, which have made this environment their home, including the red fox, the Egyptian Eagle and others.
Beaches
Mutrah Corniche
This is near one of the most important ports in Oman, Port Sultan Qaboos in the heart of the capital Muscat. It overlooks beautiful mountainous rocky formations and is one of the most gorgeous sites in the Governorate of Muscat, ideal for picnics, watching the sea and admiring ancient buildings.
Al Qurm Beach
This beach lies in Al-Qurm Area in the heart of Muscat and extends over a large area. A number of large hotel chains are built next to it, such as Hotel Muscat InterContinental and Crowne Plaza. This beach is considered one of the busiest in Muscat due to its location near shopping centers and restaurants. Walking enthusiasts can enjoy the boardwalk along the beach and then rest on the numerous chairs and umbrellas that dot the beach.
