This week’s hidden gem is a 1930s military fortress located in the heart of the desert; what was once a late 18th-century trading town is now a capital city. There is plenty to explore at this beautiful location and the kids will love running around the desert. Better yet, it’s located in a bustling city, the perfect destination! Discovered by club member Leona of Wandermust Family blog, this gem is the perfect little oasis for a day trip, located in the Middle East…

Any guesses where we are headed??

Our Hidden Gems series will uncover one-of-a-kind places discovered by our readers while traveling or exploring their own city. Whether it’s a beach, park, cafe, family-friendly hotel, hiking trail or other, enjoy these best kept secrets and be sure to add them to your list of places to go!

Zubara Fort 

Location: Al Zubara Fort, Qatar

Discovered by: Leona, mum to one, lived in Qatar for three and a half years. That enabled her the opportunity to explore the entire country and much of the Middle East. Simply out enjoying Doha, she stumbled upon Zubara Fort.

Why We Love It: The only UNESCO site in Qatar, Al Zubarah was once a thriving pearl fishing and trading post. Today, it’s Qatar’s largest heritage city with its impressive city wall, ancient palaces, marketing, mosques, and more. It’s one fo the best examples of an 18th and 19th century Gulf merchant town.

Why It’s Kid-Friendly: What child doesn’t love running free around a fort in the desert!?

Tips & Important Details: It’s about an hour drive from the center of Doha. There won’t be much else around, so bring a picnic! The Al-Zubarah fort is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and closed on Friday mornings. Public restrooms are available.

Cost: Entry is FREE!

Kids are always hungry! Know anywhere to eat nearby?: There is nothing immediately nearby. The closest restaurant to visit afterwards is in Madinat Al-Shamal.

About Leona: She runs Wandermust Family, a family travel blog. She considers the UK her home now after living in Qatar for a few years. Check out her blog post about their trip to Al-Zubara Fort. She loves being a mum and traveling as a family with her 18 month-old. Her dream travel destination as a family is Singapore!

We are continually adding to our list of Hidden Gems, so, if you have a favorite secret spot that we need to know about, please fill out our form and it will be written about for the Bébé Voyage community.

And be sure to let us know how your trip goes if you’re able to make it to this secret location! We love to see where our members go and hear about new and exciting places to travel with bébé. Use the hashtag #bebevoyage on any social media to share your trips or tips with us too. Happy travels!

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