Joanna James
Salalah is renowned as the birthplace of Sultan Qaboos bin Said; stretching along the coast the city is an amalgamation of modern buildings and carefully hidden historical sites well worth exploring.
One of the most important stops on any Salalah sightseeing tour the gold and silver souq are fascinating environs that exude traditional charm. Browse through the exquisite handcrafted silver and gold jewellery; carefully fashioned by skilled artisans. You will notice the intricate attention to detail that can only be achieved through traditional skills passed down through the ages. Next, stop at the fragrant Frankincense souk; testimony to Salalah's past as a trading post for the sweet smelling commodity. Let your senses be filled with the exotic aroma of these oriental perfumes.
Plan a day's excursion from your luxury Salalah resort into the mountains of Qara; enjoy the drive which takes you across the utterly stunning Wadi Sahanwoot. The mountains are home to a traditional family that welcomes all visitors curious to learn about their simple yet fulfilling existence. Learn about local traditions and cultural practices still in use and be awed at the rustic lifestyles of these people. After, you may proceed to Wadi Ayoun via the Haloof or the Rocky Mountains; remember to take along the cameras for the surroundings here are quite breath-taking. End your excursion at the tomb of Hiob or Prophet Job where legend states the biblical messenger is buried.
An ideal tour to savour the natural beauty of the Salalah area; the journey to Jebel Qamr Mountains is quite rewarding. You will pass through Mughsayl Beach tipped to be one of the most beautiful in Salalah, a reflection of the beach and lagoon district of Dhofar's South Coast; home to the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara and lots of natural beauty. Your journey into the mountains takes on a winding path as you pass many Frankincense trees until you reach an altitude of 1,200 metres. Finally, you head onto gorgeous Al Howta Bay another area lauded for its resplendent scenery.
In Ayn Khor, Ayn Hamran and Ayn Tubrook there are some stunning waterfalls well worth a visit. Especially during the Khareef Season these cascades are the most stunning and considered a gift to the nation by Allah. Each fall has its own allure while the lush green surroundings are ideal for making this a day out to remember; take along a picnic and put on some comfy walking shoes and set out on an adventure into the folds of nature at its best.
The beautiful lake at Wadi Darfat is ideal for the entire family to enjoy kayaking, paddle boating and a picnic. The Darbat Valley is known for its pristine beauty and one of the most scenic mountainous regions in Salalah.
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