ALULA
DESTINATION OF THE MONTH
WEEK 2 OF 3
AlUla offers an incredible array of unique experiences ideally suited to discerning travellers looking to uncover the secrets of mystical Arabia.
This magical place holds secrets to be discovered.
1. First Priority – The Heritage Sites
A highlight of a visit to AlUla are the heritage sites including Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO Heritage Listed Site, Hegra, the former principal southern city of the Nabateans, containing over 100 tombs with elaborate inscriptions. There is also mystical Dadan, perhaps the most advanced city of the first millennia and Jabal Ikmah with a myriad of ancient inscriptions telling the stories people from centuries gone by.
2. Even Better by Air
Experience the breathtaking views of AlUla’s stunning desert vistas and landscapes by taking a helicopter tour. Sit back and relax while your pilot highlights both old and the new developments.
3. Starry starry night
AlUla has some of the world’s most enviable dark skies, making for some incredible stargazing. Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars and learn about the importance of the constellations from local story tellers. This is a not-to-be-missed experience.
4. Sunset at Elephant Rock
Set in golden desert sand, Jabal AlFil, commonly known as Elephant Rock is one of AlUla’s most stunning geological marvels. Just before sunset, take a seat in the stylish sunken seating, and enjoy Arabic coffee and sweets and watch the light change. No two visits are ever the same!
5. Night hike the desert
Hike the Hidden Valley trail and feel the wonder and peacefulness of the Arabian desert – at night. The hike takes 1.5 hours and is suitable for people with average levels of fitness.
6. Discover AlUla Old Town
Old Town is mix of handicrafts, shopping experiences, restaurants, and cafes. Climb the nearby citadel for a stunning view of the region, from the sandstone outcrops to the oasis. Look out for Desert Designs offering an irresistible range of jewellery, homewares, gifts and Sadu products. Another fabulous place for souvenirs is the local oil press store with products containing the magic Moringa oil.
7. Walk the Oasis
The Oasis Trail is an easy 3km walk from Dadan to AlUla Old Town, offering visitors an extraordinary nature experience, strolling beneath the shade of the palms, through date and citrus farms.
8. Maraya
Maraya is a stunning piece of art set in the desert canyon of Ashar Valley. The state-of-the-art structure is covered in 9,740 mirrored panels reflecting AlUla’s beauty, making it the largest mirrored building in the world, according to Guinness World Records. Maraya is the centrepiece of AlUla’s growing cultural scene and is also home to Maraya Social, the latest restaurant venture by British Michelin star chef, Jason Atherton. (Maraya also provides the perfect lighting for your photos of the Ashar Valley)!
9. Visit a Volcano
A day trip to Harrat Uwayrid volcano takes visitors on both an exhilarating off roading adventure and a guided nature hike to the ridge to stare into the heart of this stunning remote volcano.
10. Epic Events
AlUla is emerging as a cultural centre on a global scale – so check out the event calendar, AlUla Moments, before you plan your trip. From hosting world-leading artists to the hot air balloon festival, desert polo and outdoor art exhibitions, there is always something happening in AlUla!
Next week in LATTE… local representatives from The Walshe Group share tips from their first visit to AlUla!
For a complete visitor’s guide, videos and more see experiencealula.com
To subscribe to AlUla’s travel trade newsletter please click here.
Trade enquiries welcome! Please contact alula@walshegroup.com
For group and FIT booking arrangements to AlUla, please see Abercrombie & Kent
Contact Details: 1300 851 800
ALULA
DESTINATION OF THE MONTH
WEEK 2 OF 3
Subscribe to LATTE’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury travel industry.