Kayaks and pedal boats work a narrow lake held between the mountains. With no wind the surface stays like a mirror on most days.
OPEN IN MAPS© Prime_PM · Pexels License · Pexels
A detached piece of Dubai in the hills, ninety minutes out by road. A dam made a deep coloured lake, dry valleys run off it, and none of it looks like the coast. Water and trails both open up from November into February.
Kayaks and pedal boats work a narrow lake held between the mountains. With no wind the surface stays like a mirror on most days.
OPEN IN MAPS© Prime_PM · Pexels License · PexelsMud houses and watchtowers were restored with household tools set inside them. The hill behind opens the whole valley to view.
OPEN IN MAPS© Mohammed Sahil Sarafudeen · Pexels License · PexelsColour graded bike routes were cut into the hills here. Bikes and gear are hired on site, and the beginner loop stays flat.
OPEN IN MAPS© David Brown · Pexels License · PexelsPools stand between the rocks of a dry valley and the water runs very cold. Rain raises the level in minutes and the valley has to be left.
OPEN IN MAPS© chickenbunny · Pexels License · PexelsSteps were built up the hill beside the dam for the view down onto the lake. A large lettering sculpture stands there and draws the photographs.
OPEN IN MAPS© Maya Ali · Pexels License · PexelsHives stand in a mountain valley and the making of honey is shown through. A protective suit is worn for the part that goes up to the hives.
OPEN IN MAPS© Arthur Brognoli · Pexels License · PexelsDriving across the dam puts the deep water directly below you. The Omani border lies close on the far side and a sign marks it.
OPEN IN MAPS© Jane Foster · Pexels License · PexelsTents and cabins are set out among the hills. The temperature drops sharply after dark, and winter nights call for a sleeping bag.
OPEN IN MAPS© Maël BALLAND · Pexels License · PexelsThe old channel that carried water down from the mountain runs between the houses. Stone slabs cover its length to stop the water evaporating.
OPEN IN MAPS© Nurullah Degri · Pexels License · PexelsThe road over the mountains toward the border carries several pull ins. Crossing itself needs a passport and separate vehicle insurance.
OPEN IN MAPS© Dr Photographer · Pexels License · Pexels