RIYADH: The wide range of landscapes in Saudi Arabia are proving increasingly popular with tourists from both inside and outside of the Kingdom, but the southwestern region of Baha is offering a new and unusual attraction with the “cave resort” of Jabal Shada Al-Asfal in Al-Makhwah Governorate.
There, the local people have transformed 10 abandoned mountain caves once inhabited by their ancestors into modern, fully-equipped accommodation with all modern amenities.
Jabal Shada Al-Asfal, where abandoned caves have been transformed, offers unique accommodation in a geological wonderland. (SPA)
The caves are located on Shada Al-Asfal, a mountain rising around 1,700 meters above sea level, and renowned for its agriculture, as well as its caves, and for its Shadawi coffee farms and the annual Shadawi Coffee Festival. The mountain is also an important site for scientific research.
Abdulrahman Nasser Al-Shadawi, owner of one of the revamped caves, said their designs were inspired by the surrounding landscape.
Jabal Shada Al-Asfal, where abandoned caves have been transformed, offers unique accommodation in a geological wonderland. (SPA)
Another owner, Mohammed Saleh Al-Shadawi, explained that each cave includes a living room, kitchen, bedrooms, and spectacular views over the governorate.
Visitors and tourists also have the opportunity to explore untouched ancient caves that were home to indigenous people thousands of years ago, as well as the ancient local geological formations.
Jabal Shada Al-Asfal, where abandoned caves have been transformed, offers unique accommodation in a geological wonderland. (SPA)
Nasser Al-Shadawi, a local historian, said that, according to a geological study, the area has some of the oldest geological formations on Earth, at around 763 million years, creating otherworldly shapes throughout the landscape — another tourist draw.
There is also plenty of opportunity for outdoor exercise, including cycling and climbing.
