Luxury Travel US 2022 Vol 2 | Page 42

AMAZING ALULA
Steeped in history , the breathtaking scenery of AlUla is undoubtedly one of the most impactful places you ’ ll ever visit . The area is simply otherworldly — a dizzying mixture of ancient history and modern culture makes you realize how unique and special this country truly is .
Framed by a formidable wall of sandstone mountains that backdrop every photo you take , the wind-swept region is a living museum spanning thousands of years . Here you can explore the carefully carved rock tombs of UNESCO World Heritage site Hegra , stand in awe before the iconic Lion Tombs in the ancient capital of Dadan , try to decipher the inscriptions on the rock faces of the Jabal Ikmah and wind your way through the labyrinthine mud-brick houses of AlUla ’ s 12th-century Old Town .
Anyone who likes to post photos online will find a dream locale at Maraya in the nearby Ashar Valley . The Guinness World Record holder for the world ’ s largest mirrored building , Maraya ’ s 9,740 mirrored panels beautifully reflect the desert around it , creating an intoxicating mirage . Taking selfies here works up quite the appetite , so head to Maraya Social , from Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton , for a meal that rivals the scenery in sheer decadence .
AlUla
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