Seraidi at a glance
Formerly the village of Bugeaud, founded in 1847 on the Edough heights, Seraidi is today a municipality of Annaba province, about 13 km from the city center. The surrounding massif rises to around 1,000 meters and is covered with cork oak and Zeen oak forests, among the finest on the Algerian coast.
Thanks to its altitude, Seraidi has long been Annaba's cool retreat: when the heat bears down on the coast in summer, locals head up for shade and breeze.
How to get up to Seraidi
By cable car from Annaba
Opened in 1986, the Annaba cable car links the city to Seraidi over 4,150 meters, making it the longest urban cable transport in Africa. The ride takes about 17 minutes, with a spectacular view over the bay. Closed in 2019 after a landslide, it reopened in July 2025 following major works.
By road
A mountain road winds up from Annaba: allow about 13 km and 25 minutes. From Rabah Bitat Airport it is 28 km, a little over half an hour. It is the most flexible option to stay until sunset or head down to the beaches: with a rental car from Annaba Airport, you can be in Seraidi less than an hour after landing.
What to do in Seraidi
- Admire Annaba bay from the village viewpoints, from the city to Cap de Garde.
- Walk under the oaks of the Edough along forest tracks leaving from the village.
- See the El Montazah hotel, designed by architect Fernand Pouillon, a major figure of post-war architecture in Algeria.
- Find the Fontaine des Princes: local tradition says its name recalls the Duke of Aumale's visit in the 19th century.
- Picnic in the forest or have a coffee on a cool terrace.
The wild beaches below
On the northern slope, winding roads lead down to the sea. The Djenane El Bey cove, 25 minutes from Annaba, is famous for its crystal-clear water. Further on, Ain Barbar hides where the forest almost meets the shore. Both feature in our selection of the most beautiful beaches in Annaba.
When to go to Seraidi
Summer is peak season: temperatures are noticeably milder than on the coast, especially in the evening. Spring brings a lush green forest and pleasant trails, autumn colors and quiet. In winter the village can get cold, foggy and sometimes snowy: bring warm clothes.
Practical tips
- Mountain road: tight bends, narrow stretches and possible fog. Drive carefully, especially at night.
- Summer weekends: the road and the village are very busy, so go up early in the morning.
- A light sweater is handy in the evening, even in summer.
- Fuel: fill up in Annaba before heading up if you plan to go down to the coves.
Combining Seraidi with other visits
Seraidi pairs well with Cap de Garde and the corniche beaches, on the same side of the bay. For heritage, the Saint Augustine basilica and the ruins of Hippo are 20 minutes away. For an overview of the city, see our complete Annaba guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Seraidi?
Seraidi is a village in Annaba province, perched at about 850 meters on the Edough massif, 13 km from central Annaba.
How do you get to Seraidi from Annaba?
By the mountain road, about 25 minutes by car or taxi, or by the 4,150-meter Annaba cable car, in about 17 minutes.
Is the Annaba–Seraidi cable car running?
Yes, it reopened in July 2025 after several years out of service. It runs during the day; hours may vary and service stops for maintenance or in strong winds.
Which beaches are near Seraidi?
The Djenane El Bey cove and Ain Barbar beach, reached by winding roads, plus the Annaba corniche beaches such as Ain Achir.
Is Seraidi cool in summer?
Yes, thanks to its 850-meter altitude and forests, Seraidi is noticeably cooler than the coast, especially in the evening.
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