Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
In summer, French-monitored paragliding from Al-Soudah (SR275) and rock climbing
(grades from 3a to 7b) at Habalah (including all equipment SR200) are possible. Moun-
tain bikes can also be hired.
Sleeping
In the high season (June to August), you'll usually need to book up to two months in ad-
vance, especially for weekends; note that prices can more than double.
Al-Masif Hotel$
HOTEL
( 228 7000; almasifhotel@hotmail.com; King Faisal St; low season s/d SR145/210, high season s/d SR190/250, 2-/
3-bed apt SR500/600)
Though the decor's mostly brown and the bathrooms have seen better
days, the Al-Masif is peaceful, centrally located and friendly. The hotel's newly refur-
bished apartments are very comfortable.
Abha Palace Hotel$$
HOTEL
( 229 4444;
www.abhapalace.com.sa
;
Nahran Rd; s/d from SR625/775; )
Located 1.5km southwest
of the town centre, Abha Palace is starting to look a little tired but it's still our pick for the
best place in town. Facilities are splendid and include a ladies health club and pool, while
travellers report friendly service.
InterContinental Hotel$$$
HOTEL
( 224 7777;
www.intercontinental.com
; high season s/d SR900/1100; )
Perched 10,000ft above sea
level, atop the escarpment in Al-Soudah, and originally designed as a palace for a Saudi
prince, the InterContinental is luxurious but starting to show signs of age. The hotel is
only open from June to September. It's about 10km west of town.
Eating
Along King Saud St there is a string of small Yemeni restaurants that serve delicious and
filling
fuul
(SR7) or omelettes (SR5) for breakfast, as well as succulent
shwarma
sand-
wiches (SR6) and half roasted chickens (SR15).
Al-Tahy$
MIDDLE EASTERN
( 228 331; Prince Sultan St; mains from SR10; 1pm-1am)
One of very few restaurants in Abha
with a family section, the Al-Tahy is much-beloved by locals for its fresh and excellent
