NIZWA

5. Misfat Al Arbayeen

If you enjoy hiking and time is short, arguably the best, easiest walk in Oman is that through the ancient village of Misfat Al Abriyyin. With mountain terraces filled unusually with palm trees as its backdrop, and intricate aflaj irrigation system winding its way around it and stunning views at every turn, the delightful village that this little walk meanders through will take your breath away. 

6. Nizwa Fort

Towering above its surroundings, Nizwa Fort stands as a vivid reminder of the important status that the city of Nizwa once held as the political and cultural capital of Oman. Built in the time of Imam Sultan bin Saif Al Yarubi in the middle of the 17th century, on top of the remains of a 9th century castle, Nizwa Fort took 12 years to complete. This enormous fort, the largest on the Arabian Peninsula, features a huge central tower which stands 34m above the rest of the fortification and has a diameter of 45m. Access to the tower is through a dark, narrow, zigzag staircase, where each turn is guarded by a thick, spiked wooden door, with shafts for pouring boiling oil, date molasses and honey over intruders; explore the fort if you dare. 

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