With its gentler climate, Taif, located in western Saudi Arabia’s Makkah province, is a cool escape from the heat and is often called the Kingdom’s unofficial summer capital. Famous for its roses, grapes, figs, and other crops that flourish on this fecund soil, Taif is also blessed with a rich history. If you are among those that love visiting fruit markets, and quaint souks, gazing at blooming roses and exploring nature reserves while soaking up the culture of a vibrant city, then Taif should definitely be on your list.
History beckons…
One of the best ways to explore a city with a rich history like Taif is to inspect its heritage.
Begin with the stately Shubra Palace, a historic building with a cultural centre, a museum, and a library. Marvel at its vast and luxurious marble floors and columns that reflect the stunning architectural style of the era and imagine what life must have been then. Other heritage palaces to visit are the Al-Qurashyah Jabra Palace and Kaki Palace, among others. Be prepared to be blown away by its artistic architectural features while you learn about its wonderful bygone history. Next, stop by the Al Shareef Museum, among the most outstanding museums in the city. You can look at antiquated tools and machines used in the Arabian Peninsula and also gaze at the marvelous collection of well-preserved vintage cars.
A breath of fresh air
Lovers of the outdoors and nature should visit Al Hada. Follow the winding road and enjoy the gorgeous sunsets and check out the cable car that runs between the mountain top and the wadi floor. Later, enjoy the splendor of nature by visiting the striking Saiysad National Park. Ensure you visit Al Rudaf Park, a sprawling wildlife reserve lined with trees and natural granite rock landscape, a lake and waterfall, and even a zoo that houses both local and exotic species. Later, make time to visit Al Wahbah Crater and enjoy the extraordinary desert views from its rim, and hike down into the centre and marvel at the salt bed of white sodium phosphate crystals. While you explore another wildlife reserve, don’t miss your chance to visit Taif’s highest peak, Jabal Daka, where you can gaze at panoramic views and also give into your adventurous side by dabbling in off-road escapades.
Don’t forget to stop and smell the roses
With fragrant flowers dotting the surrounding wadis and mountains, Taif is often enveloped in distinct floral notes. Visit Taif in spring, for this is when the rose bushes bloom throughout the city. Taif is home to over 900 rose farms that produce well over 300 million flowers harvested to create the world’s most expensive rose oil. Make time to visit some of its stunning rose farms. Get a guided visit, watch the entire operation firsthand, and perhaps stop and take in the city’s famous 30-petal damask roses.
Feel the cultural vibe of Taif
Nestled in the city’s refurbished historic centre is Taif Central Market. Walk around its sand-colored buildings, explore its labyrinth of narrow alleys and shop for sovereigns that you can take back home—from jewellery to oud, healing herbs, perfume (rosewater and oil), rich local honey, and ornate swords. Visit the street jewelers and observe them as they work on silver rings inlaid with Yemini agate. Okaz Souz, one of the oldest souqs in the region, is a must-visit. Partake in the Souk Okaz Festival, a historical and artistic platform for Arabs and people around the world. Walk around and attend poetry recitals and listen to stirring poems or attend gatherings that indulge in healthy political debates. Later, stop by the marketplace where you can find the choicest range of crafts, gifts, and jewellery. Also, find time to take a trip to the village of Al Shafa and visit the city’s fruit orchards and gardens and buy and sample some of Taif’s freshest fruits, nuts, and honey.
So, if you are looking for a vacation spot with stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural offerings, then you must explore this unofficial summer capital of Saudi.
