Situated just over 80 kilometres from the capital of the Sultanate of Oman, Al-Mussanah is the perfect place to discover this charming and fascinating country. Here you will find the main luxury hotels, including the Barceló Mussanah Resort, Sultanate of Oman. Not to mention the most appealing restaurants and the leisure spots that visitors look for during their holidays. This is a destination for those who love exotic places and the ocean depths, as it is very popular with divers and snorkelling enthusiasts. In addition, its beaches are rated very highly.
This is a town in the province of Batinah, in northern Oman, with no more than 100,000 inhabitants. From Al-Mussanah, travellers can tour the country’s most interesting and attractive places, such as the capital Muscat (which lies between the sea and the mountains), Wadi Ghul, the Great Canyon of Arabia, the dunes of Sharqiya Sand dunes, the Dhofar region, and the city of Nakhal.
The history and context of Al-Mussanah
The history of Al-Mussanah is linked to that of the sultanate itself, and of its capital, Muscat. We need to appreciate the importance of this country’s main port, which for centuries was recognised by all sorts of cultures. In 1507, the Portuguese conquistador Afonso de Albuquerque attacked Muscat (then under Persian rule). The Portuguese then remained in power for 143 years, until it passed into the hands of the Omanis in 1650. In 1793, Muscat became the sultanate’s capital. The present Sultan, following the death of Qaboos, is Haitham bin Tariq Al Said.
What is there to see in Al-Mussanah?
In addition to enjoying the breathtaking beaches and the city centre, Al-Mussanah has a castle and a port, both well worth visiting. In addition, this town lies along the route to all the places you really won’t want to miss on your sightseeing tour of the Sultanate of Oman. Of course, one essential visit is to the capital and its historic quarter — here, you will find the Sultan’s Palace and the Al-Jalali fortress, as well as the Matrah neighbourhood with its picturesque Souk and traditional Fish Market. Muscat, or Muscat, is also on the country’s northern coast, around 200 kilometres from the border with the United Arab Emirates, and near the Strait of Hormuz.
Beaches
Near Al-Mussanah, there are several beaches with golden sands, adored by visitors and particularly by those who enjoy diving and water sports. The spectacular beaches in and around Al-Mussanah, which can stretch for several kilometres, are the great attraction of this area of the Sultanate of Oman. A few kilometres from Al-Mussanah lies the vast, magnificent beach of Al Sawadi, flanked by lots of islands. At low tide, it is possible to walk to the main island. Try to visit it if you can: it is an almost mystical experience. Al Sawadi is one of Oman’s most popular beaches, along with Al Jissah, Al Qurum, Al Mughsayi, Tiwi, Ras Al Hadd, and Al Bustan.
Water sports activities
Diving and snorkelling are the most popular water sports in the Al-Mussanah coastal area. There are a few sports centres that organise lessons, and you can hire equipment. The Al-Mussanah sea bed is highly regarded by both professional and amateur divers.
Where to eat
The best places to enjoy Oman’s traditional cuisine, as well as international gastronomy, are the Mydan and Azure restaurants, at the Barceló Mussanah Resort, Sultanate of Oman hotel. Here, you will find a wide-ranging menu of very attractive Arab dishes that you should try during your holiday. You can also of course choose from a wide selection of European and international dishes. In general, the Mydan restaurant allows you to enjoy the cuisine of different countries while the Azure restaurant focuses on Mediterranean flavours.
Around the Barceló Oman hotel
Located in the Al Hayar mountains, and on the beach front at Al-Mussanah in the Gulf of Oman, the Barceló Mussanah Resort, Sultanate of Oman is the best place to stay in Oman. This is a four-star establishment that can serve as the ideal base and place to relax on your trip to Oman. One of the hotel’s outstanding features is its private marina with 54 mooring spaces. Also, the hotel is relatively close to the International Airport and to the country’s capital, Muscat, so it provides the perfect departure point for exploring and enjoying the secrets of the Middle East.
The hotel has 234 spacious and comfortable guest rooms, and 74 apartments conducive to relaxing and enjoying the wealth of possibilities. In addition, the complex has a free, high-speed Wi-Fi connection. And, of course, you won’t need to worry about the heat, because this establishment has 4 impressive swimming pools with views of the Gulf of Oman, as well as a children’s pool — in addition to a private beach with beautiful gardens and palm trees.
If you’re a discerning diner, the hotel has two excellent restaurants: Mydan and Azure. And when it’s time for a cocktail, you can choose between the Compass Bar, the Pool Bar, or the modern Deck Bar & Lounge. To put the finishing touch to your trip, we recommend the Zayna Spa and Health Fitness Club, with 10 treatment rooms and personal attention: spa, sauna, steam baths, Jacuzzi, gymnasium, and more.
