17
Taif-Maysan Scenic Route
549km
131km
Driving EASY
Best for RUINS AND VISTAS
Recommended for CULTURE AND LOCAL FLAVOUR
Meaning ‘encircled’, Taif sits on an elevated plateau surrounded by the Hijaz Mountains. Its position, nearly 2,000m above sea level, not only ensures stunning views, but also means moderate temperatures even in the summertime. Packed full of cultural and natural wonder, this area is often referred to as the unofficial summer capital of the Kingdom.
With its origins stretching back to the early 7th century, Taif and the surrounding area is full of markers of its long and enchanting history. Ruins of settlements and forts in varying states of preservation are spread along this drive and provide multiple opportunities to stop and explore their ancient rooms and towers.
The beautiful views along this route are interspersed with parks and picnic areas designed to give tourists the opportunity to stop and take in the scenery. In Taif itself, there are some well-established parks, a museum and the city’s central market – a labyrinth of narrow alleyways with vendors selling local products such as rose oil, honey, perfume and jewellery.
Al Hada
Built in the 1950s, this spiralling section of the mountain road to Taif is 20km long, climbs nearly 2km and includes 93 bends. The road is a tourist destination itself, with stunning views of Makkah and the mountains in the distance. Once you reach the summit, there is a large viewing area with plenty of parking for you to appreciate panoramic views and admire the incredible engineering of the road laid out beneath you. This area is also home to troops of baboons that live in the mountainside waiting for visitors to leave food behind. These indigenous baboons are common in this area and troops consist of one dominant male and multiple females along with their infants. Despite their unthreatening demeanour, care needs to be taken around the baboons as they can be aggressive.
Taif Souq
The souq is the historic centre of the city. Taif’s position on the crossroads of two historically important roads, the frankincense road from Yemen and the Makkah pilgrimage road, made it a melting pot for trade. Today, the maze of alleyways has been lovingly restored and local tradesmen operate in themed areas. If you are hoping to get your hands on local specialties such as honey, hand crafted jewellery or Taif’s very own rose perfume, oil and water, the souq is ideal.
SOUQ OKAZ
Once the largest and most renowned souq of the pre-Islamic era, Souq Okaz was a cultural platform and a place where Sheikhs met their tribes, reconciliations and declarations of alliance were made and hostilities were ended. Nowadays it is a huge seasonal event that takes place for two weeks every year. More than a market, the national event showcases the historical significance of the Kingdom through presentations, arts and craft exhibits and literary readings.
Abdullah al-Suleiman Palace
Built in the middle of the 20th century by Abdullah al-Suleiman, Minister of Finance during the reign of King Abdulaziz, the palace lies in disrepair just off the side of a busy intersection. Despite its dilapidated state, the beautiful influence of Roman architecture remains – the classical columns, hand carved reliefs, patterned tiled floors and arches.
Wadi Wej
Popular with locals, Wadi Wej is north of Taif and is a great option for a relaxing afternoon away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Depending on the time of year, you can drive along the wadi plain and stop for a relaxing picnic next to flowing crystal-clear water.
Saiysad National Park
Also referred to as Taif National Park, this designated nature reserve covers a huge expanse of land in the north-east part of the city. The park is seasonally verdant due to a dam located in its centre, which is filled by rainwater coming down from the surrounding mountains. Popular with locals, the park is open 24 hours a day and is a great place to camp with children as there are washrooms, barbecue areas and play parks.
Arruddaf Park
Situated in the south of the city, Arruddaf Park is a popular destination for tourists and locals. With manicured lawns and displays of indigenous flowers including the Taif rose, the park is a great place to picnic. There are play areas for younger off-roaders and football and basketball courts for those wanting something a bit more active. Once the sun goes down, the park comes alive with colour: a light garden is illuminated and a music and light fountain show takes place in the large lake dominating the centre of the park. Free to enter, the park is open 4pm to 1am every day except for Sundays.
PERFECT FOR AN EVENING DRIVE, YOU’LL ENJOY WINDING THROUGH THE MOUNTAINS ON THESE SERPENTINE ROADS. WITH PLENTY OF BREATHTAKING VIEWPOINTS, IT’S EASY TO STOP AND ENJOY THE COOL ESCAPE THAT THE HIGH ALTITUDE PROVIDES.
Al Shareef Museum
Found in the outskirts of the city, the museum has been built to resemble the heritage areas that are dotted throughout the area. Inside there is a fascinating display providing insight into the Kingdom’s eclectic history. It’s agricultural past, weaponry, domestic life, handicrafts and other artefacts, including some classic cars, are showcased. At SAR 20 per person, the museum is well worth a visit, but don’t arrive too early as opening times are 4pm to 12am daily.
Heritage Villages
Whilst little is known about the numerous heritage sites along this drive, Taif has experienced many transfers of power in its history. From the Banu Thaqif tribe in the 7th century to Ottoman sultans and Arab kings, the area has borne witness to many impressive cultures.
The ruins along this route are strategically positioned on cliff tops and outcrops for a defensive edge, with forts in their centre. Made from a mix of drystone walls and mudbrick, these heritage areas are in various states of disrepair. If you don’t have time to stop at them all, Al Kalada Heritage Village and Al Ramathen Fortress are two of the best preserved.
DRIVING DIRECTION
With multiple sites to stop and visit along this route, this area is rich with cultural hotspots waiting to be admired.
1 From Al Hada, continue along the main road until you reach the city of Taif.
2 As you enter the city’s centre, stop and explore the sites along the route. Once you’re done sightseeing, return to the main route.
3 At the junction here, turn left to visit the museum and head out of the city.
4 Take a right after As Sirr to head south of the city.
