7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Taif

As a digital nomad living in Taif, you have the unique opportunity to explore a variety of weekend getaways that offer both popular tourist destinations and hidden gems off the beaten path. Whether you're looking for adventure, culture, or just a change of scenery, these seven spots provide the perfect escape from your routine while not straying too far from your base in Taif.

Al Wahbah Crater

The Al Wahbah Crater is a geological wonder located approximately 254 kilometers from Taif. This massive volcanic crater, with its white salt flats at the bottom, offers a stunning contrast to the surrounding desert landscape. It's an ideal spot for hiking, camping, and stargazing, providing a serene escape for those looking to connect with nature.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Al Wahbah Crater is by car. It takes about 3 hours to drive from Taif, with the route offering scenic views of the desert.

Travel Tip: Make sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the area can get quite hot during the day. The crater is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset, so plan your visit accordingly.

Where to Stay: Camping is a popular option for overnight stays, but for those looking for comfort, the nearby town of Al Mikhwah has several hotels and guesthouses.

Where to Eat: Al Mikhwah town offers local eateries where you can try traditional Saudi dishes like Kabsa, a spiced rice dish with meat.

Jeddah

Jeddah, the bustling urban center on the Red Sea coast, is just over a 2-hour drive from Taif. Known for its waterfront Corniche, historical Al-Balad district, and modern shopping malls, Jeddah is a city that blends the old with the new. The city's coastline is perfect for scuba diving and exploring the Red Sea's vibrant marine life.

How to Get There: The quickest way to Jeddah from Taif is by car or bus, with frequent services connecting the two cities.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic Al-Balad district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can wander through ancient coral stone buildings and bustling souqs.

Where to Stay: Jeddah offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. The Rosewood Jeddah boasts an amazing pool overlooking the Red Sea.

Where to Eat: Al Baik is a must-visit for fast-food lovers, famous for its broasted chicken and garlic sauce. For a more traditional experience, head to the Al Nakheel restaurant on the Corniche for fresh seafood.

Al Lith

Al Lith is a small coastal town located about 275 kilometers south of Taif, known for its pristine beaches and excellent deep-sea fishing. It's a less frequented destination, making it perfect for digital nomads seeking a quiet retreat. The town is also a gateway to the Farasan Islands, a protected marine sanctuary.

How to Get There: Driving is the most convenient option, with a journey time of around 3 to 4 hours from Taif.

Travel Tip: If you're an avid diver or snorkeler, don't miss the chance to explore the coral reefs around the Farasan Islands, which are teeming with marine life.

Where to Stay: Accommodations in Al Lith are modest, with local guesthouses and beach resorts offering basic amenities.

Where to Eat: Seafood is the highlight in Al Lith, with local restaurants serving up the day's fresh catch. Try the grilled fish or shrimp for a taste of the Red Sea.

Al Baha

Nestled in the Sarawat Mountains, Al Baha is a refreshing escape from the desert heat, known for its mild climate and lush greenery. About 220 kilometers from Taif, this region is dotted with traditional stone villages, forests, and waterfalls. It's a great spot for hiking and experiencing the culture of the mountain tribes.

How to Get There: The drive to Al Baha from Taif takes around 3 hours, with winding roads that offer spectacular mountain views.

Travel Tip: Visit the Raghadan Forest Park, a popular picnic spot among locals, where you can enjoy the cool mountain air and scenic views.

Where to Stay: Al Baha has a range of hotels and resorts, with some offering stunning mountain views. The Golden Tulip Qaser Al Baha is a popular choice.

Where to Eat: Sample traditional Saudi cuisine at local restaurants in Al Baha, where dishes like Mandi, a spiced rice and meat dish, are a specialty.

Asir National Park

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Asir National Park offers breathtaking landscapes, from mountains to forests, and a chance to see Arabian leopards if you're lucky. Located about 300 kilometers from Taif, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in the unique flora and fauna of the region.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Asir National Park is by car. The journey from Taif can take around 4 hours, depending on the route and road conditions.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the villages of Rijal Almaa, known for their distinctive architecture and the Asir Regional Museum to learn about the local culture.

Where to Stay: There are several eco-lodges and campsites within the park for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Alternatively, the city of Abha offers more traditional hotel options.

Where to Eat: In Abha, try the Al Qarya Al Olya restaurant for authentic Asiri dishes and a cozy atmosphere.

Umluj

Often referred to as the "Maldives of Saudi Arabia," Umluj is a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. About 400 kilometers from Taif, it's a bit of a longer trip but well worth it for the stunning archipelago of islands that can be explored by boat.

How to Get There: Driving to Umluj from Taif is the most practical option, with the journey taking approximately 5 hours.

Travel Tip: Take a boat tour to explore the islands and snorkel in the clear waters to see the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Where to Stay: Umluj has a growing number of beach resorts and hotels, with some offering private beach access and water sports facilities.

Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants along the Umluj waterfront, where the catch of the day is always on the menu.

Al Namas

Al Namas is a hidden gem located in the Asir region, about 230 kilometers from Taif. This small town is often enveloped in mist, giving it a mystical atmosphere. It's known for its cool climate, terraced agriculture, and beautiful natural surroundings, including dense juniper forests and waterfalls.

How to Get There: The drive to Al Namas from Taif takes around 3 hours, with the route passing through scenic mountain terrain.

Travel Tip: Visit the Al Soudah Park to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The park also offers paragliding for the more adventurous.

Where to Stay: Al Namas offers a selection of hotels and guesthouses, with some providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Where to Eat: Local cafes and restaurants in Al Namas serve traditional Saudi dishes, with an emphasis on locally grown produce and mountain honey.