When you think of Saudi Arabia, you likely picture vast, sun-drenched deserts and modern, glittering cities. But for those in the know, the Kingdom holds a surprising secret. A chain of majestic mountain ranges that offers a cool escape from the summer heat. A refreshing climatic zone exists along its western highlands. This zone provides a refuge for both locals and tourists seeking cooler air and lush landscapes.

Join The Sandy Times as we explore the best mountain escapes in Saudi Arabia, where you can swap the desert heat for mountain breezes and discover a side of the Kingdom rich in cultural heritage, outdoor activities, and unparalleled natural beauty.

Let's delve into the distinct offerings of these high-altitude havens that are the ultimate answer to the Saudi summer.

The Asir region, located in the southwestern part of Saudi Arabia, is a gem that feels worlds away from the country's deserts. Cradled among the Sarawat Mountains and bordering the Red Sea, Asir is a verdant landscape. The landscape features high-altitude plateaus, deep valleys, and towering peaks that the cooling mist often shrouds. This high elevation ensures a pleasantly mild to cool climate year-round, making it a perfect destination to escape the intense summer heat. 

Asir isn’t just a geographical anomaly, it is a treasure trove of culture and history. The region's unique architecture, ancient villages, and rich tribal heritage are an integral part of its identity.

1. Abha: The city of fog

The provincial capital of Asir, Abha, is a lively city perched on the mountainside. Known for its cool, often foggy weather, Abha is a popular summer retreat. Visitors can explore the city's exceptional charm, from the historic mud-brick houses of Rijal Almaa's old town to the vibrant street art and bustling markets.

2. Mount Souda

As one of Saudi Arabia's highest peaks, Jabal Sawda (Mount Souda) offers some of the most spectacular views in the country. The crisp, clean air and vast juniper forests make it ideal for hiking. For an exclusive experience, take a cable car ride to the summit for scenic views of the surrounding valleys.

3. Asir National Park

Stretching over 4,500 square kilometres, Asir National Park is an adventurer's promised land. The park's diverse ecosystem includes lush juniper forests and high-altitude plateaus, which are perfect for hiking and camping. Keep an eye out for bird species that are native to this region.

4. Rijal Almaa: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Just a short trip from Abha, Rijal Almaa is a historic village that looks like it's plucked from a fairytale. The village is famous for its unique stone towers and multi-story forts, built from stone, mud, and wood. It was a pivotal trade and pilgrimage hub, connecting Yemen and the Levant to Mecca and Medina. These buildings are a testament to the region's rich history and architectural ingenuity.

5. Tanomah

For those who want to venture off the beaten path, Tanomah has a raw and rustic mountain experience. This lush highland destination is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its cool climate and dense foliage. Tanomah is perfect for hiking along winding paths and is known for being home to some of the rarest bird species in the region. The rugged reddish peaks also make it a popular spot for climbers, offering the best mountain escapes in Saudi Arabia.

Craving cool mountain air, historical intrigue and wide-angle views? Look no further than Taif. This captivating city boasts refreshing summer weather, historical sites, and awe-inspiring mountain views that will leave you breathless.

Located at an elevation of over 1,800 metres and easily accessible from major cities like Jeddah and Mecca, Taif is a historic and popular summer retreat.

Let's dig deeper into why Taif should be your next adventure destination.

1. Al Hada and Al Shafa Mountains

Escape the heat and ascend into the cool embrace of Taif's surrounding mountains. The winding road up Al Hada Mountain is an experience in itself — a gradual drop in temperature and beautiful scenery will captivate your senses. You can also take a ride on the country's longest cable car for a sensational perspective. At the summit, you will find panoramic vistas and refreshing air.

If you want even more tranquillity, Al Shafa Mountain is a perfect choice. Just a short drive from Taif, this area is home to picturesque villages and farms. When the weather is clear, you can relish a 360-degree view from a height of approximately 2,500 metres. The journey is pleasant, with roadside vendors selling fresh fruits and local products.

2. Taif's rose farms

Taif is known as the "City of Roses," and for good reason! The city proudly produces some of the finest roses in the region, which locals use to create highly sought-after rose water and oil. While the primary bloom season is in spring (March-April), the farms are a beautiful sight year-round. You can still visit these lush, family-run farms to learn about the process of harvesting and production. 

Don't forget to purchase some fragrant rose products to take home with you! In addition to roses, Taif is famed for its fresh produce, and you may even find farms selling strawberries, grapes, and peaches, offering a unique rural experience.

Nicknamed the moon's neighbour because Jabal Fayfa peaks seem to touch the clouds, this area is a haven for tourists who prefer rural life and a peaceful atmosphere away from the city's noise. Known for its dense forests and rugged mountains, Jabal Fayfa is a stupendous combo of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

1. Al-Khoshin forests

The Al-Khoshin area is one of Jabal Fayfa's most important tourist destinations. Extending along Al-Yahya Ali's arm, it is famous for its dense forests and diverse plant life, historically used in traditional medicine and as a water source. This makes it an ideal spot for researchers and nature lovers to explore its captivating beauty and learn about its historical significance.

2. Adventure and relaxation: Top activities

Jabal Fayfa is a playground for adventure enthusiasts. If you have a high physical fitness level, then climb the challenging mountain terraces. For a less strenuous way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, you can ride the primitive metal cable car, a unique local creation.

You can also go on a thrilling safari through the green landscapes and snowy fog in a four-wheel drive or on a bike. Don't forget to capture the beauty of the traditional houses settled on the mountain peaks. Further, visit scenic spots like Al-‘Adhirah and Al-Washar, known for their greenery and abundant agricultural produce.

Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an exhilarating adventure, Jabal Fayfa's excellent climate and spectacular views make it the best mountain escape in Saudi Arabia.

Nicknamed the moon's neighbour because Jabal Fayfa peaks seem to touch the clouds, this area is a haven for tourists who prefer rural life and a peaceful atmosphere away from the city's noise. Known for its dense forests and rugged mountains, Jabal Fayfa is a stupendous combo of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

1. Al-Khoshin forests

The Al-Khoshin area is one of Jabal Fayfa's most important tourist destinations. Extending along Al-Yahya Ali's arm, it is famous for its dense forests and diverse plant life, historically used in traditional medicine and as a water source. This makes it an ideal spot for researchers and nature lovers to explore its captivating beauty and learn about its historical significance.

2. Adventure and relaxation: Top activities

Jabal Fayfa is a playground for adventure enthusiasts. If you have a high physical fitness level, then climb the challenging mountain terraces. For a less strenuous way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, you can ride the primitive metal cable car, a unique local creation.

You can also go on a thrilling safari through the green landscapes and snowy fog in a four-wheel drive or on a bike. Don't forget to capture the beauty of the traditional houses settled on the mountain peaks. Further, visit scenic spots like Al-‘Adhirah and Al-Washar, known for their greenery and abundant agricultural produce.

Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an exhilarating adventure, Jabal Fayfa's excellent climate and spectacular views make it the best mountain escape in Saudi Arabia.