Joanna James
Salalah is Oman's second largest city; located in the Arabian Peninsula, this beautiful coastal city, boasts unique environs. On the south are sandy beaches while the north offers mountain ranges.
Best visited during the khareef or monsoon season, the most popular waterfalls of Salalah, include, Ayn Tabrook, Ayn Koor and Ayn Athum. Ayn Athum and Ayn Tabrook are found along the road to Nashib; they are easy to find and easy to navigate to. The former is deemed one of the most beautiful in Salalah, located on the eastern edge of the city; the waterfall is a much visited site, during the Khareef season. To the west of Salalah is Ayn Khor, which can only be accessed by foot or a 4X4 vehicle.
Wadi Darbat is extremely beautiful. A marvellous precinct for nature lovers to explore, this area offers some of the best attractions in the Dhofar region. Ideal for enjoying a day out, the region is quite close to a number of Oman luxury resorts. The pristine valley is a treat to explore, home to lush plantations and animals such as cattle and camels, grazing on the verdant plains. At the end of the road leading to the valley is a spring, giving way to the largest lake in Salalah. During the Khareef, it is possible to rent power boats or paddle boats and explore the lake. The cloudy skies and surrounding green mountains add to the surreal effect, as you enjoy a day with nature.
No coastal holiday is complete without experiencing a sunset. Head over to the cliffs of Taqa and you can do just that. Those staying at properties in the region belonging to hospitality brands such as Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, can opt to drive over to the cliff sides, park their vehicles, take out some comfy mats, drinks and a bite to eat, and wait for the magical sunset. Don't forget the cameras, for the sight is truly awesome and well worth the wait.
Mirbat located about 75kms to the east of Salalah is a quaint little fisher town; and on the way, you will encounter a number of scenic beaches. Some are just too good to pass by, and you will find yourself stopping to drink in the pristine beauty of the place. Walk along the white sand beaches and watch as your feet sink into the thick sand, leaving behind imprints of your feet for the tide to wash away. At the entrance to Mirbat are two statues of brown horses in a prancing pose, reminders of Mirbat's colourful past as a breeding centre for the exotic Arabian steeds.
A popular picnic spot, Al Mughsayl Beach is located close to the equally popular Marneef Cave. This, however, may not be the conventional type of 'cave' you would expect, rather a sheltered area, over which a rocky ledge hangs down, nevertheless, located at a higher elevation from the beach, it is a beautiful precinct to relax at. Located just nearby, the blowholes look like beautiful fountains and are worthy of a few photographs.
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