BY JOU PABALATE
When the Diplomatic Quarter was designed in the 1970s, the architects behind the project cleverly built the community to mesh with its wadi surroundings and topography. Envisioning a neighborhood where locals and expats alike can breathe in some fresh air and enjoy nature, they’ve embedded the interconnected trails (also referred to as walking paths) throughout the area.
Fast forward to today, we see that vision coming true with development spearheaded by the Diplomatic Quarter General Authority. They are currently expanding and improving the original plan, much to the delight of active dwellers and sunset seekers who head onto the trails for leisurely walks, hikes, runs, cycling, or simply basking at its horizon views.
The dirt paths with their occasional rocky terrain and boulders make up a 15-kilometer trail altogether, linked through public parks scattered around its perimeter. The outer, longest path that takes you all around from Roundabout 1 to the south gate is perfect for cyclists and seasoned runners who would like a challenging ride/route with uphill climbs and slopes to boot.
But worry not, the trails are designed in a way that can accommodate individuals of all fitness levels. For those wanting to just stroll and be closer to nature, you can take the shorter route starting at Roundabout 8 and exit at Tuwaiq Palace—this offers breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset, Wadi Hanifa’s Bridge, and a variety of faunas and birds to marvel at, for an hour or less.
Families often gather at the Al Yamama Gardens, one of the biggest out of the 17 parks in the DQ and can be found along Heraa St. And it has the added perk of just being a stone throw away from one of the trail access points that overlooks a cliff. A good picnic spot, it lets you get a bit of both the greens and dirt without committing to a hike.
Likewise, should you prefer some quietude, you can make your way to Roundabout 6, near the south gate. This hike path has higher elevations and offers a majestic view of the Ritz Carlton-Riyadh. There are smaller parks in this area as well.
When the weather gets warmer, hikers often take the paths with more shade, which in my experience, would be the sunken trails near Tuwaiq palace. With date palms lining the paths, a manmade creek, and tall grass growing on large patches, this area provides the most comfortable hideaway for a workout during spring.
The shorter trails will take about 45 minutes of walking, the entire 15 kilometers about 2-3 hours with ins and outs on the pavements. You can exit the trails anytime through the parks.
- Are you a dog lover? Shout out to the wonderful DQ Trail Dog Group that meets up almost every Friday during the cool months. Non-pup owners are welcome as well.
- Restrooms are available in the pit stops and parks.
- “SPIN” bike rental is now open near the Arabsat Entrance, directly across Pancake House, should you wish to ride rather than stride.
- Be a responsible hiker— dispose of your trash in the bins and for dog walkers, pick up your pet’s business; runners and fellow trailers will thank you for it.
- Say hello! There’s a friendly culture on the trail, go ahead, greet each other.
photo credits to rami majzoub, riana julianti and verdy siregar
