7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Abha

As a digital nomad living in Abha, you have the unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes of the region. While the city itself offers a tranquil environment with its cool climate and lush greenery, the weekends are a perfect time to venture out and discover new destinations. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven fun weekend getaways that are sure to enrich your nomadic lifestyle.

Al Soudah Park

Al Soudah Park, located on the Asir Mountains, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It offers breathtaking views of the Sarawat Mountains and the opportunity to experience the region's unique flora and fauna. The park is ideal for outdoor activities such as cable car rides, paragliding, and hiking. The cooler climate here provides a refreshing break from the heat of other regions.

How to Get There: Al Soudah Park is approximately a 40-minute drive from Abha. Renting a car or taking a taxi are the most convenient options to reach this destination.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to ride the cable car for a panoramic view of the mountains and valleys. It's a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Where to Stay: The Soudah Park Hotel offers comfortable accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For a unique experience, consider staying in one of the area's traditional-style lodges.

Where to Eat: The Al Soudah Park restaurant provides a variety of local and international dishes with a view that complements the dining experience. Try the local Kabsa, a traditional Saudi rice and meat dish.

Jabal Sawda

Jabal Sawda is known as one of the highest peaks in Saudi Arabia and is a haven for nature lovers. The area is surrounded by dense juniper forests and offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. It's a great spot for trekking and enjoying the crisp mountain air. On a clear day, the views from the top are simply spectacular.

How to Get There: The drive to Jabal Sawda from Abha takes about an hour. A private vehicle is the most practical way to reach the peak.

Travel Tip: Be sure to bring warm clothing as the temperature can drop significantly at higher altitudes, even during the summer months.

Where to Stay: While there are limited accommodation options directly at Jabal Sawda, the nearby city of Abha offers various hotels such as the Abha Palace Hotel.

Where to Eat: Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated areas, or head back to Abha to try the local cuisine at Assafrah Restaurant, known for its authentic Saudi dishes.

Rijal Almaa Village

Rijal Almaa Village is a historical gem that showcases the traditional architecture of the Asir region. The village is made up of multi-story buildings constructed from natural stone, clay, and wood. It's a living museum where you can learn about the local culture, art, and history. The village also hosts cultural festivals throughout the year.

How to Get There: Rijal Almaa is about an hour and a half drive from Abha. Renting a car is the best option for flexibility and convenience.

Travel Tip: Visit the local museum to see a collection of artifacts and traditional clothing. The village is also known for its vibrant market where you can purchase handicrafts.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited in the village itself, but the nearby city of Abha offers various hotels and guesthouses.

Where to Eat: While there are small local eateries in the village, many visitors prefer to bring their own food or dine in Abha after their visit.

Al Habala

Once accessible only by rope ladders, Al Habala is a cliffside village that was originally built by the Khatani tribe. The village is nestled against a sheer cliff face and offers stunning views of the valley below. Today, a cable car system allows for easy access to explore this unique historical site and its terraced farming landscapes.

How to Get There: Al Habala is about an hour's drive from Abha. A private car or taxi service can take you to the cable car station that leads up to the village.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit during the cable car operating hours and enjoy the traditional dance performances by the local tribesmen on weekends.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations in Al Habala itself, but the nearby city of Abha offers a range of hotels such as the Azd Hotel with comfortable amenities.

Where to Eat: It's advisable to pack snacks for the trip, as dining options are limited on the mountain. Abha has a variety of restaurants to choose from upon your return.

Wadi Lajab

Wadi Lajab is a stunning canyon located in the Asir region. It's a paradise for adventure seekers with its crystal-clear waters, towering cliffs, and lush palm groves. Visitors can enjoy swimming, canyoning, or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings. The wadi is also a great spot for a barbecue or picnic.

How to Get There: The drive to Wadi Lajab from Abha takes approximately two hours. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the rough terrain leading to the wadi.

Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring waterproof bags for your electronics if you plan to explore the canyon's waterways.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations in Wadi Lajab, so most visitors camp or stay in nearby cities such as Jizan, where the Jazan Inn Hotel offers a comfortable stay.

Where to Eat: There are no restaurants in Wadi Lajab, so bringing your own food is essential. Jizan city offers a variety of dining options, including the popular Al Baik for fast food with a local twist.

Al Qara Hill Caves

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Al Qara Hill Caves in the Al Ahsa region. These natural caves offer a cool retreat from the desert heat and feature fascinating rock formations. The caves have historical significance and provide insight into the geological history of the area.

How to Get There: Al Qara Hill Caves are a longer trip from Abha, taking about 5 hours by car. It's best to plan for an overnight stay to fully enjoy the experience.

Travel Tip: Bring a light jacket as the caves can be quite cool, and make sure to have a flashlight to explore the deeper parts of the caves.

Where to Stay: The Al Ahsa InterContinental offers luxury accommodations after a day of exploring the caves.

Where to Eat: The city of Al Ahsa has numerous dining options. Al Qaisariah Café is a local favorite, offering traditional Saudi coffee and dates.

Farasan Islands

The Farasan Islands are a hidden treasure for those looking to escape the mainland's hustle and bustle. These islands are a sanctuary for wildlife, including gazelles and a variety of bird species. The clear waters surrounding the islands are perfect for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life.

How to Get There: To reach the Farasan Islands, you'll need to drive to Jizan and then take a ferry. The ferry ride takes about 1.5 hours and is free of charge.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to dive or snorkel in the islands' protected waters, where you'll find some of the most pristine coral reefs in the Red Sea.

Where to Stay: Options on the islands are limited, but the Farasan Hotel offers basic accommodations. Alternatively, you can stay in Jizan, where the Radisson Blu Resort offers a more luxurious experience.

Where to Eat: Seafood is a must-try on the islands, with several local restaurants serving fresh catches of the day. In Jizan, the Jazan Fish Market is the perfect place to sample the local fare.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that can enrich your life as a digital nomad in Abha. Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or just a peaceful retreat, there's something for everyone within reach of this beautiful Saudi Arabian city.