Abha & Southern Region
Around 1 hour 40 min flight South West from Riyadh, not far from the Red Sea, you reach the spectacular lush green mountainous region, and capital of the Asir Province, Abha.
The Asir National Park is nearby, full of wildlife, green forests and rich fertile farmland.
Abha is the base for many mountain village treks, once the capital city for Prince of Asir Ibn Ayde.
The surrounding mountain villages are spectacular, some only reached by cable car, but it is definately worth the ride.
Amazing places
Popular destinations
Abha (elevation of 7.5k feet / 2.3km) and the surrounding region is definately the place to visit in Spring or Summer, to enjoy its mild climate.
Noticably cooler and wetter, where temperatures rarely rise above 35C, many Saudis, in the summer months, migrate to this region of outstanding natural beauty to escape the seering heat in Riyadh and surrounding areas.
The picturesque mountain village of Rijal Alma, located in the Asir region, is reachable by a winding mountain road, but well worth the trip. Stop to see the baboons on the way, let your brakes cool down and remember to test your brakes regularly, as good braking is required on the steepest sections.
Pictures of the village can be found below, including the museum, tracing what life was like over 900 years ago until recent times. The region became a regional trade centre, linking Yemen with Levant, not far from the Holy city of Mekkah and Medina.
The houses are muti-story and made of rock, clay and wood, original furniture and antiquities (personal belongings, household items, weapons, tools, etc) can be found in many rooms and the views through the windows are just stunning.
Regional gifts to pick up on your drive from local mountain markets include delicious mountain honey (so many varieties, taste before you buy), spices, coffee, hand-made rugs (not at all expensive!), and the usual perfumes and large varieties of dates. The usual tourist mugs and modern gifts, from jewelry to clothing can also be found in abundance.
Abha also has an ultra modern district, of modern malls, well served regional and international airport, plenty of great places to eat and stay, great as a base to explore the surrounding mountains and countryside - quite a contrast! Abha also has a beautiful and famous mosque to explore.