While much of Saudi Arabia bakes under the fierce summer sun, two mountain havens stand out as serene retreats: Aseer and Taif.
With their crisp air, cool breezes, and misty peaks, these high-altitude regions offer a refreshing alternative for those looking to escape the heat and reconnect with nature, culture, and adventure.
Aseer: The Art of Altitude
In the southwestern corner of the Kingdom, Aseer greets visitors with winding mountain roads, lush landscapes, and a cultural richness that is hard to match. At the heart of this experience lies Almuftaha Village, where the rhythm of Abha’s cool breeze mingles with the scent of incense and the sound of oud drifting from art galleries and open-air courtyards. It is a living canvas of Saudi creativity, where traditional crafts meet contemporary exhibitions and where every alley tells a story.
For families, the Plateau Event is the kind of summer gathering that brings generations together. Visitors can expect a mix of cultural shows, Saudi hospitality, food, and light-hearted entertainment under open skies. It is the kind of place where children can run freely while parents linger over gahwa and dates with locals and fellow travelers.
Nature lovers should make a beeline for Liwan Farm, a peaceful retreat nestled in the hills. It is the sort of place where time slows, offering picnics among fruit trees and a chance to reconnect with the land. For a more energetic outing, Sky Village delivers panoramic views, fresh mountain air, and a mix of thrill and leisure with food trucks, family games, and occasional performances. Whether hiking at dawn or sipping tea at dusk, there is a rhythm here that flows with the mountains.
Perhaps the crown jewel of Aseer is Al Habala Park. Perched on the edge of a dramatic cliffside, this natural wonder offers cable car rides through clouds, hidden waterfalls, and campfire nights beneath a sky filled with stars. It is an otherworldly experience, part adventure and part serenity.
Taif: A Rose-Scented Retreat
Over in Taif, the charm is quieter but no less intoxicating. Known as the City of Roses, it greets visitors with a floral fragrance carried on cool mountain winds. At Arruddaf Park, families gather to enjoy open green spaces, musical performances, and the soft splash of water from interactive fountains. It is a setting that feels more Alpine than Arabian, complete with breezy weather and wide skies.
Taif’s rose factories remain a highlight, offering visitors a rare behind-the-scenes look at the region’s signature bloom. These factories are not merely tourist stops. They are a sensory journey through the history, fragrance, and artistry of the Taif rose, with products that blend tradition with modern elegance.
Further up the mountain, Al Shafa is a destination that stirs the soul. At nearly 2,500 meters above sea level, it offers expansive views of the valleys below and a temperature that can dip low enough to require a light jacket, even in July. Scenic drives, roadside fruit stalls, and walking trails make Al Shafa a magnet for photographers, families, and anyone seeking a place to reflect and recharge.
Why Now
The answer is simple. This is the time when the mountains are at their finest: clear skies, cool weather, and enough cultural and natural richness to satisfy every kind of traveler. Whether you are a solo adventurer, a family with energetic children, or a group of friends seeking a change of scene, Aseer and Taif promise a summer that feels like a breath of fresh air.
While the lowlands endure the heat, head upward. The mountains are ready to welcome you.
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