Al Faqrah: Your Ultimate Guide to Medina’s Mountain Getaway

•  Al Faqrah (الفقره). It is also referred to as a village (قريه) and a governorate (محافظه).

Al Faqrah is a breathtaking mountain village and a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to or living in the Medina region. Known for its cool, refreshing climate and stunning natural scenery, Al Faqrah offers a perfect escape from the city’s heat. This comprehensive guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan your trip to this beautiful Saudi retreat.

Discovering Al Faqrah: An Overview

Nestled in the Hejaz mountains, Al Faqrah is a picturesque village located approximately 80 km from the city of Medina. The journey to the summit takes about an hour, leading you to an altitude of around 1,900 meters above sea level. This significant elevation is the secret behind its famously pleasant weather, making it a popular summer resort, or masyaf, for the people of Medina.

Why Visit Al Faqrah?

• Escape the Heat: When Medina experiences temperatures of 45°C, Al Faqrah offers a cool respite, with evening temperatures around 32°C that can drop to a refreshing 18-20°C in the early morning.
• Stunning Nature: Enjoy panoramic views and the unique landscape of the Saudi highlands.
• Family-Friendly Activities: It’s an ideal spot for families and groups to relax and create lasting memories.

What to Do and See in Al Faqrah

A trip to Al Faqrah is all about embracing the outdoors and relaxing in a serene environment.

Enjoy the Scenic Beauty and Cool Air

The primary attraction of Al Faqrah is its natural environment. Visitors can simply find a spot to sit, enjoy the cool mountain breeze, and take in the stunning “italat” or overlooks. It’s a perfect place for an evening gathering that can last late into the night.

Rent a Cabin or Majlis

One of the best ways to experience Al Faqrah is by renting a private space. Based on the video, here are the typical rental options available:

Rental Options in Al Faqrah

1. Standard Enclosed Majlis

• Price: ~250 SAR for 12 hours.
• Features: This is a great option for families, featuring a private seating area, air conditioning, a screen, and a basic but clean restroom.

2. Larger Tents with Beds

• Price: Approximately 300 SAR.
• Features: A step up from the standard majlis, these include bedding for a more comfortable stay.

3. Full Villa/Cabin

• Price: 450-550 SAR (mid-week vs. weekend).
• Features: For a full experience, these villas are fully equipped. They include:
  • Two bedrooms with three beds each.
  • Three air conditioners and three bathrooms.
  • A full kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, and complete cooking utensils.
  • A reception living room (majlis).

Many of these rentals also cater to sports fans by showing major matches on large screens.

Practical Information for Your Visit

Getting There and The Mountain Pass

The drive from Medina to Al Faqrah is straightforward but involves navigating a significant mountain pass, known as al-aqabah. This pass is steep and can be challenging for some drivers, taking about 20-30 minutes to traverse. It’s advised to be cautious, especially if you are not used to mountain driving. This same pass can also serve as a route towards Yanbu.

Amenities and Dining

The village has a small commercial area to cater to visitors:

• Restaurants: There is a main restaurant, Al Faqrah Village Restaurant, which has a published menu and an active Instagram presence.
• Shops: You’ll find kiosks selling tea (like Shai Al Jumar) and other snacks.
• Ice Cream Shop: A highlight for many visitors, perfect for a cool treat.
• Equipment Rental: Some shops allow you to rent cooking equipment, so you can bring your own food and have a barbecue.

Plan Your Trip to Al Faqrah

Al Faqrah is a gem in the Saudi tourism landscape, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cool weather, and comfortable amenities just a short drive from Medina. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay, it promises a memorable experience.

For more information on other beautiful destinations in Saudi Arabia, you can visit the official Saudi Tourism Authority website. To explore the history and significance of the Medina region, a great resource is the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques. If you’re looking for other weekend getaways, consider our guide to AlUla’s Hidden Gems (internal link).

Read on our Website Full Guide to History and Architecture of Masjid Nabawi