When you think of summer in Saudi Arabia, images of rolling sand dunes and arid plains might spring to mind. In the Kingdom’s southwestern highlands, however, a very different story unfolds.
Upon the lush plateaus of Al Baha and further up to the highlands of Aseer, you’ll find cool mountain air, misty peaks and verdant forests: the perfect alternative to the desert climate of the lowlands.
Read on to discover Saudi Arabia’s southwestern mountain region and its range of unexpected summer escapes.
Al Baha: forested plateaus and ancient villages
High up in the Sarawat Mountains around 2,500 metres above sea level lies Al Baha, one of Saudi’s hidden gems, close to major cities like Taif in the north and Abha in the south.
The city enjoys a temperate climate and incredible biodiversity, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and camping set to a gorgeous backdrop of valleys, plains, forests and waterfalls.
Raghdan Forest Park is a standout attraction, inviting visitors to picnic upon the cliffs in view of vast mountain scenery and juniper forests. The nearby Shada Mountains meanwhile are home to cool caves inscribed with ancient markings, while Dhee Ayn – the striking marble village built atop a white rocky outcrop almost 400 years ago, is now partially restored and open to visitors.
Nature lovers can also visit Khaira Forest Park, where grand waterfalls, scenic lakes and vast green space can be explored on birdwatching, hiking and picnicking day trips. Alternatively, stay cool in the city at Prince Hussam Park, known for its lakeside trails, suspension bridge and night-time illuminations.
Aseer highlands: juniper forests and mountain trails
Perched further south along the Sarawat Mountain range is Aseer, a region also defined by its elevation and unique microclimate. Average summer temperatures here range between 20°C and 35°C, a striking contrast to the 40°C+ often seen in Jeddah and Riyadh.
Sprawling across 1,600 square kilometres, Asir National Park is a pristine green space, home to dense juniper forests, rugged peaks and wildlife including baboons and ibex. A short drive away, Al Habala Park, known for its dramatic hanging village, is now accessible via cable car, allowing visitors to swoop down to the site to explore the stone houses, cascading waterfalls and verdant plateaus below.
Visitors can combine heritage and hiking on trails such as Aqabat Al Quroon that run from Al Soudah to Rijal Almaa, offering sweeping views over the region’s terraced villages and valleys, with natural and historic landmarks all the way.
At 3,015 metres, Jabal Soudah is recognised as Saudi Arabia’s highest point. Here, mornings are often shrouded in fog, creating the rare spectacle of cloud forests. Unwind above the clouds at a mountaintop café or gear up for adventure with paragliding, mountain biking or ziplining experiences.
Rijal Almaa: heritage homes and cultural immersion
Nestled in Aseer’s foothills and accessible from Abha is the heritage village of Rijal Almaa, a collection of striking mudbrick houses painted in traditional colours. Once a key stop on ancient trade routes, the village is now a contender to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into Saudi’s timeless architectural legacy and modest hospitality.
Several restored homes operate as guesthouses in the village, allowing travellers to stay overnight and enjoy the cool mountain evenings. If coming on the road from Soudah, be sure to stop at Alsamaa Eaqabat View for sweeping vistas, particularly breathtaking at sunset.
Summer cultural festivals in Rijal Almaa, such as the annual Flowerman Festival (aka Soudah Festival, Aug-Sep), further highlight the region’s traditions – including art, music, dance and cuisine – with local guides in Abha offering tours of the village’s museum and historical sites during this period.
Taif: roses, mountain air and family fun
More northerly than the rest, just 100 kilometres from Makkah, Taif remains a convenient summer option, at 1,879-metre elevation on the slopes of the Sarawat range.
Known as the ‘City of Roses’, Taif harvests more than 300 million fragrant blooms each April, which are then distilled into prized rose oil over the summer months, with a number of terraced farms offering workshops on traditional perfumery.
The city’s location also makes it a haven for outdoor pursuits and wellness escapes. After exploring Shubra Palace and Al Rudaf Park within the city, consider venturing into the countryside for hiking and horseback riding in the shaded valleys beyond.
Just outside of Taif, the Strawberry Farm is a laid-back alternative for all the family. Come to experience life on the farm, with fruit picking, animal feeding and children’s activities to fill an easygoing summer afternoon.
Alternatively, take the road over Al Hada Mountain for sweeping views of the rose fields, with a scenic cable car ride and hiking trails en route. The Al Kar Tourist Village is also an ideal stop-off for families thanks to its water park and toboggan slide.
An alternative summer in Saudi awaits
Whether hiking above the cloud-forests of Al Baha or bathing in the scent of Taif’s roses, Saudi Arabia’s southwestern highlands are home to many of the Kingdom’s top summer destinations.
With fresh mountain air, natural beauty and cultural heritage abound, the Kingdom invites you to try something different this summer and discover a greener, cooler side to Saudi.
Be bold. Visit Saudi.
