dar al islam

Two special sites on this visit. The narrow sandy and rocky road will lead you straight to the site of the Muslim community and their lovely mosque. Groups can arrange a tour. I think that would be very informative and enjoyable. Look for the "office" to the right of the parking lot for general directions. I found a warm welcome and invitation to visit the mosque. At the time there were few people around and it was very quiet. I loved the mosque and spent some time in the quiet and sense of holiness. (One must take off shoes to enter.) The other special place on their property is what Georgia O'Keeffe called "the white place." One must turn down another narrow road just before the gate to the community to get to the parking lot. However, seeing "Plaza Blanca" means a hike so be prepared. Lovely view from the parking lot makes it worth the effort to find the place even if you don't make the hike.

We received directions that underestimated the length of the road to the turnoff at the gates (really about 3 miles). It's a gentle, easy hike even for someone with a problematic knee. Wildflowers bloomed all around us, little lizards zipped by, and birds coasted silently overhead. Totally peaceful.

Small, isolated, quietly beautiful...near the Plaza Blanca and worth a stop if you are in the area. Built by the Saudis, the mosque today is used for various programs...but all the features (including lovely tile work and the foot baths) of a larger building are here.

I can't tell when the mosque is open from its website. When we pulled up, the gate was down, so we parked by the road and walked in. It's about a mile walk to the mosque from the road in full sunlight (no shade), but I don't mind the sun and the scenery is breathtaking.

I've never been to a place so beautiful. Just being in this area takes you to do a different level of peace and spirituality, Looking forward to visiting again.