You’ll start the day with a visit to the Nabataean site of Hegra, which was the southern capital of the Nabataean kingdom, dating back to the first century BCE. Today, visitors follow their ‘rawee’ or storyteller, to explore several of the more than 100 well-preserved monumental tombs, most with elaborate facades carved from rock formations scattered around the desert. Onward to a modern marvel; hidden in the exclusive Ashar Valley sits the world’s largest mirrored building, the Maraya, a multi-purpose center for the arts. Maraya, meaning mirror or reflection in Arabic, celebrates AlUla's significant role in history as a crossroads of cultures for centuries. The mirrors themselves become a contemporary canvas, reflecting the remarkable heritage of the area. As the perfect modern ode to the past, Maraya is the centerpiece of AlUla's growing cultural scene. The outside can be admired, and is the perfect, surrealistic backdrop for artsy pictures. Next, head for the green zone that is the AlUla oasis, and enjoy a cup of coffee at The Pink Camel, situated beautifully amid the date farms. Take a stroll where lush palm trees sway gently and the smell of citrus fills the fresh air, adding to the oasis-feeling that AlUla still retains. Follow the winding, shaded Oasis Heritage Trail through the orange grove, hear birds and imagine how the nomads of the past found water and refuge from the desert here. Exit the lush oasis at AlJadidah, an area known also as ‘Art Town’ which has a colorful vibe with street art and art exhibits spread out in its walking streets. Continue exploring AlUla historic city, often called ‘the Old Town,’ a charismatic place that once sat at the crossroads of the Silk Road and the Incense Route, and that rewards a leisurely stroll. Recent renovations have turned it into a magical mix of ancient alleys and trendy restaurants and upmarket souvenirs shops. Dinner at one of the restaurants here, enjoying the night lights of the old town.
Meal
Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
Hegra & AlUla
Your Accommodation
Cloud 7 Residence AlUla
Located in AlUla, Cloud 7 Residence AlUla provides free WiFi, and guests can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and a bar. Some of the units include a satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchenette with a fridge, and a private bathroom with a bidet and free toiletries. The breakfast offers buffet, continental or Full English/Irish options. At the lodge you will find a restaurant serving American, Italian and Japanese cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free and halal options can also be requested. Cloud 7 Residence AlUla offers a sun terrace. Guests at the accommodation can enjoy billiards on site, or cycling in the surroundings. Hegra Archaeological Site is 44 km from Cloud 7 Residence AlUla. Prince Abdul Majeed bin Abdulaziz International Airport is 29 km away, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
