5 reasons this is the ultimate winter sun destination

Stunning shores

We want nothing more in winter than to be lying on golden sands, living our sunshine-filled dreams. Saudi serves up beautiful beaches aplenty, but perhaps none are more picturesque than the ones found on the Farasan Islands, which is also a marine sanctuary.

A small group of coral isles located off Saudi’s southwestern coast in the Jazan province, they offer infinite stretches of talc-white sand, warm, clear, aquamarine water, and mysterious mangrove forests; snorkelling and diving opportunities, of course, abound. Often hailed as one of the most stunning, Farasan Al Kabir – located on the main island, Farasan – makes for idyllic days, immersed in nature. Birdlife is plentiful and varied here, too; you might spot anything from ospreys to pelicans, and flamingos to crab plovers.

Natural wonders

From deep, limpid pools, to shimmering lakes, and epic waterfalls, Saudi boasts a wealth of watery wonders you’ll want to literally dive into. Start with the natural pools within Wadi Lajab, located in Jazan province. Home to a canyon over 5km (3 miles) long, and up to 30km (18 miles) wide in parts, it forms a narrow, deep valley offering some dramatic viewpoints. The stream that runs along the bottom creates a series of mid-sized waterfalls and numerous natural ponds, deep enough to dip and swim in, while the canyon’s steep, striking, creeper- and moss-covered sides, loom above.

Elsewhere, the dual delights of Lake Kharrarah Park and Hifna Waterfall in Riyadh draw many visitors, mainly locals. Set among a series of red sand dunes, and reachable by SUV, part of the Al Kharrarah national park valley transforms into a desert lake and waterfall after heavy rains. At these times, migratory birds and other wildlife can best be spotted.

Luxe resorts

With its Red Sea coastline stretching around 1,100 miles, Saudi is naturally known for its alluring beach resorts and the sprawling seaside city of Jeddah is home to several of the most incredible. BOHO The Beach (bohothebeach.com) offers a range of premium design villas, apartments and studios with, as the name suggests, a…