Al Baha redefines your idea of Saudi Arabia – imagine a mountain city, curvy hill roads and winding valleys dotted with fruit orchards. Al Baha enjoys moderate temperatures like any high-altitude city and is surrounded by lush, green forests. Surprised? Read on for more on Al Baha and what all you can do during your summer visit.
Experiences in Al Baha center around an interesting history, striking views and natural beauty. The city stands out for its 1,001 stone qasbah lookout towers, built by local tribes. Dhee Ayn or the Marble Village, is located south of Al Baha and is a must visit for its 400-year old cube shaped buildings made of stone and slate. Plan a hike on the Raghadan Forest Park trail for a day spent in nature and beautiful scenery, or spend a weekend camping in the forest. There are local food stalls, barbeques and even a zip line to add fun to your weekend. Catch a glimpse of history as you go up the Jabal Mussala Ibrahim to the hidden village of Sheda. Ancient huts dot the path, as do some rare trees and plants.
Accommodation
You can book your Al Baha stay at an old-style establishment or at a modern hotel. Accommodation options in Al Baha range from the traditional Capital O 309 Al-Faleh Hotel which is located near the Alamalad Castle; to the Saf Hotel which is a modern themed establishment and placed in the southern part of Al Baha.
You could also plan to stay at the National Park Hotel, Baljurashi, another modern hotel in the vicinity.
Attractions
Al Baha is paradise for travelers who like the outdoor and enjoy holidays that are planned around nature and adventure. Camping, hiking, stargazing, bird watching – all of these can be done at various sites. Head to Khairah Forest Park for clear night sky views, Raghadan Forest for family-friendly camping, Al Malad Dam for camping as you bird watch and Shada Mountain for a good climb. The historic village of Dhee Ayn, known as the Marble Village, is a top attraction in Al Baha.
You can hike to the village, enjoying spectacular mountain views of the Sarawat Range as you head to the 400-year old village and explore ancient homes with ornate doors. Other historic villages you must go to are Bani Saar with its landmark Bin Rakosh Palace; Algehad Village which is about 1,000 years old and Al-Khalaf and Al-Khalif villages which are full of archaeological treasures. The city also has a small, historic souq which you can visit to pick up souvenirs.
Food
Try the ful with tameez at Ful Khalofah, one of Al Baha’s oldest restaurants; or kabsa hashi which is rice cooked with meat of young camels. Try the best kabsa hashi at Al Baha’s Hashi Basha.
Seafood can be tried at Fifth Season while Signature is the place for fresh fruit juices. Head to Backyard Café for local cuisine and authentic Arabic coffee and 65 Burger if you’re in the mood for burgers and fried chicken.
Shopping
Retail options in Al Baha include local and international fashion, perfumes, food items like dates and honey, local souvenirs, traditional items and electronics. Visit Women’s Market which is a shopping mall for women’s products and run by women, and Souq Tuesday in Al Makhwa for its craft shops, heritage utensils, wooden doors, dates, natural honey and ghee. A host of fashion and accessories are available at Abu El Kheir Mall while the Gold Market is exclusively for gold jewelry and gold products.
You can spend a day at Ghonaim Mall and shop for fashion, accessories and electronics while the kids stay busy at the children’s entertainment zone. Catch a meal there at one of many available dining options. The Happy Neighborhood Market and Alattiyah Mall are ideal places to head to for men’s, women’s and children’s products; while the Randa Market had a wide array of food products to try and purchase. The Popular Market and Market Thursday, also known as Al-Khamis, is where you should head to if you wish to buy local handicraft and traditional products.
Change your idea of a Saudi Arabian holiday – spend this summer in hilly, cool and beautiful Al Baha. Take in splendid views as you enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. Book your flights and hotels accommodation on Cleartrip now! Check out our summer offer here!
