Winter sun and walking in Oman

Oman may be best known for its beach lounging and diving holidays, but fans of active holidays can get lots more out of a visit to the Gulf state.

As well as clear waters and beautiful reefs, the country boasts fjords, mountains and desert landscapes; ideal for adventurous travellers looking for activities in the great outdoors.

Located close to Dubai, the country has over 1,000 miles of coastline to offer holidaymakers keen to take to the water.

One of Oman's best watersports areas is Masirah Island, which is an hour's ferry ride from the country's east coast.

Once on the island holidaymakers can see abandoned dhows - traditional sailing boats used for fishing - on the beaches, which have become preserved by the sea water and sunshine.

Masirah Island is also good for snorkelling, with plenty of underwater sights where marine life have turned man-made items into their homes.

However, if you prefer land-based activities, then walking holidays are one of the best options to go for in Oman.

Two hours drive from the city of Nizwa is the 3,000 metre-high Jebel Shams, known as the Mountain of the Sun.

As well as being the highest peak in the Jebel Akhdar mountain range, the mountain is considered to be one of the country's most impressive natural sights.

Holidaymakers keen to explore the mountain will get a chance to see valleys, cliffs, and canyons from the trekking routes available. These range from easier-going walks in the foothills of Jebel Shams, to treks up to almost 2,000 metres above sea level for experienced walkers looking for a challenge.

If you are planning to take on a challenging route it is best to organise your trip with a professional guide or tour operator.

For holidaymakers who want to know more about walking holidays in Oman, the Ministry for Tourism has put together a trekking guide Oman Trekking Explorer, which has details of 12 hiking routes.

For more information on visiting Oman the Oman Tourism website.