Joanna James
The charming port city of Sur, nestled in the Gulf of Oman, is well known for its beautiful corniche and as the home of the iconic local boats named dhows. Sur also boasts an array of historical sites, famous wadis, and other intriguing natural attractions that keep attracting discerning visitors.
A stunning natural pool that you find on the way from Muscat to Sur, an hour's drive by car. Filled with shimmering turquoise water shading to deep green this sinkhole is alluringly inviting for a dip in the desert heat and has become one of the famous Oman tourist spots. With a depth of 20 m and a width of 40 m, this sinkhole was formed by a depression in the underlying limestone although the locals believe it is due to a falling star. Whilst from the top it is spectacular, as one hits the water the feeling is sheer bliss as it cools your skin from the heat. The few ropes offer an exciting jump into the sinkhole whilst changing rooms are available.
Wadi means a parched riverbed in Arabic, and wadis are quite popular as they provide several pools of water which are ideal for swimming after heavy rainfall. One such popular wadi is Wadi Sahab situated about 20 minutes beyond Bimmah Sinkhole. A short boat ride takes visitors across a river to a trail providing a feast for your eyes as you cross a valley with little rocks and stretches of lush vegetation to reach the enticing waters of the wadi. Many visitors to this wadi tend to spend a few hours swimming to cool off, admire the scenery and explore the hidden cave and the waterfall.
Also known as Al Ayjah Lighthouse, this structure portrays the history, culture, and natural beauty of the land. Strategically positioned at Ras Ayqah, the highest eastern point of Sur Harbour Square it faces the Gulf of Oman signalling to the ships of them entering an important port. (This port played a key role on the world’s maritime map). The walls had strategic windows in the past with cannons and rifles installed and only three of them remain today. Renovated later with refined features and the inclusion of a night beacon, the lighthouse stands with three floors, a domed roof, inscriptions on the door and traditional Omani architecture at present. Most guests from hotels such as Sur Plaza enjoy the spectacular view of the city from this vantage point after appreciating the majestic Sur Lighthouse.
Demonstrating the art of traditional Omani boat building the experienced and skilled craftsmen work at several dhow yards in the Al Ayjah district of Sur. By visiting one of these yards, you get to appreciate the process of transforming pieces of timber into beautiful dhows that help thousands of people cross rivers and other water bodies.
The lovely corniche of Sur is in the oldest part of Sur enabling locals and visitors to enjoy a picturesque ocean walkway for four miles. Admire the iconic sight of the wooden dhows, the magnificent lighthouse and the skyline dotted with beautiful mosques as you gaze around. A wonderful place for an early morning walk or an enchanting stroll at dusk.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
