Saudi Arabia surprises people.
For many Western travelers, the first image that comes to mind is endless golden desert, brilliant sunshine, modern cities, and warm coastal plains. But climb westward into the country's great mountain belt and the scenery changes almost dramatically enough to feel like another country.
This guide is about the full highland road trip: cool mountain air, mist-covered valleys, juniper forests, terraced farms, fragrant roses, historic stone villages, and roads that disappear around dramatic cliffs before revealing enormous views across the Tihama plains. If you're deciding between just two mountain destinations rather than a full multi-stop route, our Cool Summer Escapes: Taif & Abha guide compares them side by side. This guide goes further — a complete road trip through Taif, Al Bahah, Abha, and Rijal Almaa.
I particularly love this route because it slows the journey down. Instead of rushing between major cities, you can spend mornings drinking Arabic coffee above the clouds, afternoons exploring mountain villages, and evenings wrapped in a jacket while fog moves quietly through the trees.
For families and Western travelers looking for an alternative to Saudi Arabia's summer heat, the highlands are one of the country's most rewarding road-trip experiences.
And if you are planning a summer trip, this highland route is exactly why we highly recommend reading our The Best Time to Visit Saudi Arabia guide.
Why the Hejaz and Asir Highlands Are a Must-Visit
The magic begins with geography.
Saudi Arabia's western mountains form part of the enormous Sarawat mountain system, rising behind the Red Sea coastal plains. As you leave the lower, hotter landscapes and gain elevation, the temperature, vegetation, architecture, and even the atmosphere begin to change.
Taif introduces you to the highlands from the north. Continue south and you eventually reach Al Bahah, where ancient juniper forests and misty escarpments create an unexpectedly green landscape. Farther south, Asir becomes increasingly dramatic, with Abha sitting high above the surrounding valleys and Rijal Almaa tucked among rugged mountain terrain.
This is the geographical shift that makes a Saudi Arabia mountain road trip so special.
One moment, you're looking across dry plains. A little later, you're driving between rocky slopes, cultivated terraces and trees. Clouds gather around the peaks, visibility changes, and the air feels noticeably cooler.
Raghadan Forest in Al Bahah, for example, sits at more than 1,700 meters above sea level and is known for its ancient juniper trees, panoramic views and misty atmosphere.
For anyone escaping the heat in the Saudi highlands, that elevation is more than a number. You can actually feel the difference.
There is also a cultural transformation.
The mountain communities of the Hejaz and Asir developed architectural styles and agricultural traditions adapted to steep terrain and different climates. In Asir, traditional buildings often appear almost sculpted into the mountains, while terraces demonstrate generations of agricultural knowledge.
This combination of nature, history and local culture is what makes the highlands much more than a cooler place to visit.
The Epic Mountain Route: Taif to Abha
A Taif to Abha drive should not be treated simply as a point-to-point journey.
The real experience is stopping along the way.
I recommend allowing at least 5–7 days if you want to experience Taif, Al Bahah, Abha and Rijal Almaa without turning the trip into a race.
Stop 1: Taif — The City of Roses
Taif is an ideal starting point.
Located high above the western plains, the city has long been associated with agriculture, fruit orchards and, most famously, its intensely fragrant roses.
Begin around Al Hada, where the mountain road climbs through dramatic bends and viewpoints overlooking the landscape below. This is one of those stretches where you should resist the temptation to rush.
Pull over where it is safe, step outside, and let the mountain breeze replace the heat you left behind.
Then continue toward Al Shafa, another highland area famous for its cooler climate and rose farms.
During the rose season, the experience becomes particularly memorable. Roses are harvested in the early morning when their fragrance is strongest, then processed into rose water and rose oil through traditional distillation methods. Recent Saudi reports describe more than 900 rose farms across Taif's highlands, with the 2026 harvest producing hundreds of millions of flowers.
If your itinerary coincides with the spring harvest, visit a traditional rose distillery.
Watching the petals being transformed into fragrant rose water makes the story of Taif feel tangible rather than something you simply read about.
The traditional process can involve thousands of roses in a single distillation batch.
Even outside the main flowering season, I would still include Al Hada and Al Shafa for their mountain scenery.
My Taif suggestion: Spend two nights here. Use your first day for Al Hada and the city, and dedicate the second to Al Shafa, rose farms and a relaxed mountain afternoon.
Stop 2: Al Bahah — The Hidden Mountain Gem
From Taif, continue south toward Al Bahah.
The scenery gradually becomes greener and more rugged, and this is where the road trip begins to feel genuinely remote.
Your first priority should be Raghadan Forest.
Imagine ancient juniper trees rising through cool mountain mist, with the enormous Tihama landscape falling away below you. On clear days, the views stretch dramatically toward the lower plains; when clouds arrive, the entire forest can feel wrapped in silence.
Raghadan has walking areas, family facilities, picnic spaces and recreational attractions, making it particularly practical for families rather than being purely a viewpoint.
I recommend arriving before sunset.
The light becomes softer, the temperature drops, and the mountain landscape takes on that blue-gray evening color that photographs beautifully.
Al Bahah is also worth exploring for its heritage and local markets. If a traditional weekly or heritage market is operating during your visit, check locally for the current day and opening hours rather than assuming a fixed schedule.
The Raghadan Historical Market, for example, has hosted traditional crafts, food, cultural performances and family activities, demonstrating how strongly the region's tourism is connected with local heritage.
And don't overlook Zee Ain Heritage Village if you have extra time. It is another remarkable example of traditional mountain architecture and is also included on Saudi Arabia's UNESCO Tentative List.
My Al Bahah suggestion: Stay two nights. One day can focus on Raghadan and the surrounding mountain viewpoints; the other can be used for heritage villages and a slower exploration of the region.
Stop 3: Abha & Asir — The Jewel of the South
Eventually, the road brings you into Abha, the atmospheric heart of the Asir highlands.
Abha feels different from Taif.
The altitude, architecture, greenery and frequent cloud cover create a distinctly southern mountain atmosphere. On a cool morning, you may find yourself walking outside with a coffee while mist hangs over the hills.
This is exactly the kind of place where I recommend slowing down.
Explore Al Muftaha Art Village, where traditional architecture meets contemporary Saudi artistic expression. Wander through the galleries, admire the colorful details and allow yourself time to simply absorb the atmosphere.
Then look toward the mountains.
The Abha Cable Car experience can add another perspective to the landscape, particularly if conditions are clear. Cable-car operations can be affected by weather and maintenance, so always check current operating information before building your entire day around it.
For families, Abha also works well as a base for relaxed day trips.
And then comes one of the highlights of the entire route.
Rijal Almaa Heritage Village
Approximately 45 km west of Abha lies Rijal Almaa, a remarkable historic settlement surrounded by the mountains of Asir. UNESCO currently places Rijal Almaa on Saudi Arabia's Tentative List, rather than the official World Heritage List, so I would describe it as UNESCO-listed for consideration or UNESCO-recognized as a tentative heritage site, not as an officially inscribed UNESCO World Heritage Site.
And it deserves the attention.
The village contains traditional multi-story buildings constructed using local stone, clay and wood. UNESCO's description notes roughly 60 palaces and emphasizes the settlement's historic role as a corridor connecting trade and pilgrimage routes.
When the afternoon sun touches the stone walls, the village seems to glow against the darker mountains.
This is where I would put the camera away for a few minutes.
Listen to the wind.
Notice the architectural details.
Walk slowly.
Most importantly, remember that Rijal Almaa is not simply a photographic backdrop. It represents living cultural heritage, and visitors should behave accordingly.
Dress respectfully, avoid entering private areas, ask before photographing people, and follow any local instructions.
Can Western travelers visit Rijal Almaa? Absolutely. Visitors should simply approach the village as a cultural community rather than a theme park.
Where to Stay: Peaceful Mountain Resorts
The accommodation strategy for this trip is almost as important as the driving route.
I would divide your stays into three categories.
1. Luxury Mountain Resorts in Taif
Taif is the easiest place to begin with a comfortable resort or upscale hotel.
Look for properties around Al Hada and the higher parts of Taif if your priority is mountain scenery, cooler evenings and easy access to the winding roads.
For families, prioritize:
- Spacious rooms or apartments
- On-site parking
- Family-friendly facilities
- Mountain views
- Easy road access
- Heating and cooling systems
Don't choose purely based on how luxurious the lobby looks. On a mountain road trip, location and parking can make a much bigger difference.
2. Nature-Focused Accommodation in Al Bahah
In Al Bahah, I prefer accommodation that lets you experience the landscape.
Look for mountain-view hotels, resorts, chalets or furnished apartments close enough to Raghadan and the surrounding attractions.
A balcony overlooking the mountains can be worth far more than an elaborate indoor facility when the evening mist arrives.
3. Boutique Heritage or Mountain Stays Near Rijal Almaa
For the final part of the journey, look for small guesthouses, boutique properties or comfortable stays around Abha and the Rijal Almaa area.
Availability can be more limited than in major Saudi cities, so I recommend booking ahead during popular summer periods and regional festivals.
Essential Road Trip Tips for the Highlands
The mountains are beautiful, but they deserve respect.
Rent a reliable car
For this itinerary, I consider a reliable rental car essential.
Public transportation will not give you the same freedom to stop at viewpoints, explore smaller villages or adjust your schedule around weather.
Before collecting your vehicle, inspect the tires, brakes, lights, windshield and spare tire. Make sure your insurance coverage is clear and that you understand the rental company's roadside assistance procedure.
For families, I would choose a comfortable vehicle with enough luggage space rather than the smallest possible rental.
You don't necessarily need a large 4x4 for the main route, but road conditions can vary, especially if you leave major paved roads. If you're planning remote mountain tracks, verify that your rental agreement permits the intended driving.
Pack layers — even in summer
This is one of the biggest mistakes first-time visitors make.
Saudi Arabia can be extremely hot, but high mountain elevations can feel genuinely chilly after sunset.
Bring:
- Lightweight daytime clothing
- A warm layer or fleece
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A light waterproof jacket
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- A reusable water bottle
- A small backpack
- Phone power bank
Fog and sudden changes in visibility are also possible in the highlands.
Drive mountain roads conservatively
Don't let spectacular scenery distract you.
Slow down before bends rather than braking aggressively inside them. Keep a generous following distance. Avoid overtaking unless visibility is excellent and the road markings allow it.
If fog becomes thick, reduce speed and use your lights appropriately.
And never stop in a dangerous location simply because you've found a beautiful photo opportunity.
A five-minute search for a safe pull-off is always better than risking yourself or other drivers.
Drive during daylight whenever possible
For a scenic road trip, daylight is part of the experience.
It also makes winding roads, changing weather and unfamiliar junctions easier to manage.
I prefer starting mountain drives early, taking breaks during the middle of the day, and reaching the next accommodation before darkness.
Respect local mountain communities
The most memorable moments on this route often happen outside major attractions.
You might encounter farming communities, small villages, family-owned food businesses or people simply going about their daily lives.
Dress modestly, ask before photographing people or private property, and don't climb onto walls or enter buildings that appear closed.
A little respect goes a long way.
Eat locally
Don't turn the entire trip into international hotel food.
Try local dishes whenever you can.
In Asir, look for traditional foods and especially Asiri bread, often enjoyed with honey or other local accompaniments. A simple breakfast with fresh bread, honey, cheese and Arabic coffee can be one of the most satisfying meals of the journey.
And when you see a small local restaurant busy with residents, that's often worth investigating.
To help you plan your expenses for this epic road trip, check our detailed How Much Does a Trip to Saudi Arabia Cost? The Ultimate 2026 Budget Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Hejaz and Asir Mountains
How cold does it get in the Asir mountains in summer?
It can feel surprisingly cool, particularly at night and at higher elevations.
Exact temperatures vary significantly by location, elevation and weather conditions, so don't assume every summer day will be cold. However, evenings in Abha, Al Bahah and other elevated areas can be cool enough that a jacket is genuinely useful.
That's why I always recommend packing layers.
Is it safe for Western families to drive these mountain roads?
Yes, the major paved routes can be suitable for Western families, provided you drive carefully and understand that mountain driving is different from highway driving.
The biggest issues are winding roads, steep sections, fog, changing visibility and occasional unpredictable driving behavior.
Drive during daylight, reduce speed in poor weather, avoid unnecessary overtaking and use navigation as a guide rather than blindly following it onto unsuitable roads.
Can non-Muslims visit Rijal Almaa?
Yes. Rijal Almaa is a cultural and heritage destination rather than a religious site restricted to Muslims.
International visitors can explore the village while respecting local customs, dress expectations, privacy and photography etiquette.
This is one of the strongest reasons I recommend including it in a broader Saudi Arabia itinerary: it offers a window into the architectural and cultural heritage of the Asir region.
How many days are recommended for this highland route?
For Taif, Al Bahah, Abha and Rijal Almaa, I recommend 5–7 days.
A comfortable version could look like:
If you have only three or four days, choose two destinations rather than trying to see everything.
The mountains reward slow travel.
Final Thoughts on Your Highland Journey
There is a particular moment that happens on a Saudi mountain road.
You leave the city behind.
The road begins climbing.
The landscape becomes quieter.
The air cools.
Then the clouds arrive.
Suddenly, the Saudi Arabia you thought you knew — the desert, the heat, the endless horizons — is replaced by juniper trees, mountain terraces, misty valleys and villages built into rugged slopes.
That is the magic of a full Hejaz and Asir mountains road trip.
Taif gives you roses and mountain air. Al Bahah gives you forests, mist and enormous views. Abha gives you the atmosphere of the southern highlands. Rijal Almaa gives you a powerful connection with the architecture and history of Asir.
But the greatest attraction is the journey between them.
Take your time.
Stop for coffee.
Pull over safely when the view opens.
Talk to local people when the opportunity arises.
Taste the food.
Let the weather change your plans occasionally.
And remember that the best mountain road trips are not measured by how many attractions you tick off. They are remembered by the quiet moments between them.
For travelers searching for an escape from the desert heat, the Saudi highlands offer something genuinely unexpected: cool air, dramatic landscapes, deep cultural roots and a sense of peaceful isolation that feels worlds away from the country's busiest cities.
This is the side of Saudi Arabia we love sharing at Serene Visit Stay — slower, greener, cooler and wonderfully surprising.
Your highland adventure is waiting.
Disclosure
We only recommend services we believe can genuinely help you plan a better trip.
Mountain weather, road conditions, cable-car operations, and local market schedules across Taif, Al Bahah, Abha, and Rijal Almaa can change quickly and are outside our control. The driving guidance in this article is general in nature and does not replace official road and weather advisories. Always check current conditions before setting out, confirm your rental car's insurance and terrain permissions, and use a licensed local driver if you are not comfortable with mountain driving.