This stout building, beside Qurayat's main vegetable and meat souq, looms unexpectedly into view alongside the narrow main road through town. Recently restored, this 19th-century fort is typical of Oman's coastal defensive structures, with high, crenellated walls and a round watchtower. It's not always open as billed, but the proud exterior is worth a look, and there's a fine wooden door at the entrance.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Qurayat Lake Park

0.69 MILES

This large and attractive park on the edge of Qurayat, with an island in the middle of a small lake, makes a pleasant place to stroll and watch local…

2. Watchtower

0.82 MILES

This unique triangular watchtower, built in the 19th century and overlooking the corniche, is accessed by a causeway at low tide. The sandy beach to the…

3. Al Khobaar Lake Resort

4.95 MILES

'Resort' is a misnomer for Al Khobaar as there's no hotel or any other facility here warranting that description. For some this may mean it's of limited…

4. Seifa Beach

9.26 MILES

A beautiful bay east of the Jebel Seifa complex stretches into the distance. In the cooler months it's a lovely place for an easy stroll or a picnic, and…

5. Bank Beach Club

12.84 MILES

Occupying a breezy spot on the edge of the Jebel Seifa complex, independent of the neighbouring hotel, this stylish beach club boasts a palm-shaded…

6. Mazara Fort

12.86 MILES

There's not much left of the fortified ruins that crest the knoll in the middle of Mazara, but this doesn't spoil their appeal as the subject of a…

7. Wadi Dayqah Dam

13.11 MILES

Looming over the village of Mazara and holding back a permanent body of water, the enormous Wadi Dayqah dam is the largest in Oman. A road winds up to the…

8. Wadi Arbeieen

16.15 MILES

High above the coast, in the wrinkled folds of the Eastern Hajar Mountains, a combination of spring and rain water collects in deep pools along the length…