6 adventurous things to do this weekend: March 11 to 13
Ready for the weekend?
Make your weekend an adventure with these outdoor activities. Here are six things to do with your families and friends.
Thursday March 11
1. Discover the walking trail at the Diplomatic Quarter
View this post on Instagram
The Diplomatic Quarter (DQ) is not just home to many embassies. The gated community is also surrounded by beautiful parks and a 15-km walking trail that runs around the DQ’s entire perimeter. For those looking for a stroll, we suggest starting near the Tuwaiq Palace. You could easily walk through the rest of the parks and marvel at the wonderful variety of flora and fauna along the trail.
Tuwaiq Palace, 2664 Alhattan St, Al Safarat, Diplomatic Quarter, MJQ9+9R. @saudidq
2. Channel your inner Hawkeye at the archery range
View this post on Instagram
Challenge yourself to hit the bullseye from a 14-metre distance at this outdoor archery range at Ad Diriyah. If it’s your first time at archery, you’ll be surprised by just how much fun it can be. They also have qualified instructors to teach you how to send the arrows flying. Just make sure to book your slot.
Archery Range (Bow and Arrow), Mohammed, Al Faisaliyah, PHRM+6M, daily 5pm to midnight. Tel: 055 880 8617. @archery_range
Friday March 12
3. Off-the-beaten-track desert camping
Some of you may disagree but camping in the desert is a rite of passage. So, do it now when the temperature is still cool. For a taste of desert dune camping, head out into the vast desolate stretch of desert about an hour drive from the Red Sand Dunes. Known for its dramatic landscape of dunes, the whole area is otherworldly, especially at sunrise and sunset, and there is really not a soul there. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is essential to venture into the rich red sand to try a spot of dune bashing, and we recommend travelling with a minimum of two cars. Tip: Our favourite site is about 8km from the surface road. Otherwise, keep driving off-road until you find a good spot to explore.
GPS Coordinates 24°08’52.6″N 45°59’13.9″E, 4XXP+5V.
4. Go glamping – Saudi-style
View this post on Instagram
For a different kind of unforgettable overnight experience, glamp it all out Rees Camp. Located just 60km north-west of Riyadh, they have camps for rent, so you can do it within the comforts of adorned tents, majlis, bonfire, and most importantly, modern toilets.
Rees Camp, 78MX+86 Malham, Mon to Wed SAR1,300, Thurs & Sat SAR2,500, Fri SAR4,000. Tel: 050 629 8726. @rees.camp
Saturday March 13
5. Quad bike across the Red Sands
Rev those engines and get ready to race off around the large dunes of the Red Sands. You’ll be spoilt for choice by the selection of ATVs for hire. Prices start from SAR40 per hour and vary according to bike size. Avoid sinking into the soft sand by sticking to the areas where there are tracks. For the best views, get to the top of the highest dunes. From the awe-inspiring red sand dunes to the plateau’s rocky outcrops that Riyadh is based on, the juxtaposition of scenery provides an atmospheric backdrop. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and some snacks in case you get hungry.
Red Sand Dunes, 9989+52.
6. Saddle up for great times
View this post on Instagram
In need of a break from the stresses of everyday life? Then this family-friendly horseback trail rides in the stunningly rugged scenery of Dirab is ideal for you. Trustworthy horses, great local guides and breath-taking views. There is riding to suit everyone from novices to experts and children, too.
D-Ranch Equestrian Centre, GPS Coordinates 24°25’19.0″N 46°36’40.3″E, daily 9am to 7pm. Tel: 055 243 7208. @d.ranch.ksa
Images: Instagram