SAUDI ARABIA
Abha & the Aseer Mountains: The Perfect Day Trip from Khamis Mushait
A day trip to Abha from Khamis Mushait brings art, colourful streets, and the crisp cool air of the Aseer Mountains.
If you ever find yourself sipping Arabic coffee at Mercure Hotel Khamis Mushait, wondering what lies beyond, you'll discover a world of cool, crisp air and mist-capped peaks awaiting just beyond the horizon.
Welcome to the Aseer Mountains, where a day trip to Abha lets you press reset. Perched in the mountains, Abha is considered the cultural heart of Saudi Arabia's southwest. Its fresh air, earth-toned mud houses, and soft green shimmer of juniper trees don’t shout for attention, yet they quietly capture your heart.
And maybe that’s because time here moves differently. Life slows, conversations unfold over cardamom coffee, and the cool highland breeze – a refreshing contrast to the kingdom’s desert heat – reminds you that simplicity is everything. It’s this unhurried rhythm that sets the stage for getting to know Abha, the capital of Aseer.
When planning your day, start your journey early from Mercure Hotel Khamis Mushait. The winding roads create a scenic drive that’s all part of the experience. You’ll find yourself on a road trip through olive groves, juniper forests, and valleys that suddenly unfold into sweeping mountain views.
On the way, roadside stalls stacked with honey tempt travellers to stop and get a taste of this sweet local treasure. You’ll also find aromatic herbs, handwoven baskets, and other crafts native to the Aseer region. But most importantly, you’ll be greeted by locals with a smile, even if no purchase is made. That’s just how warm and friendly the people here are.
Other than the fact that there’s an international airport here, Abha is being re-imagined as the kingdom’s next great escape, where mild weather, rich heritage, and nature intertwine effortlessly. You’ll soon see why every sunlit street, market, and mountain trail in Abha has a unique energy of its own.
Things to do: cable car, markets, and village vibes
Your first destination should be Habala Village, or the hanging village. Fun fact: It was once accessible only by rope ladders, hence its name Habala, meaning 'rope' in Arabic. Now it’s accessible either by a scenic hike – for those up for some exercise – or by cable car, open to both visitors and locals. The cable car ride is a highlight that offers sweeping views of the mountains and valleys below.
Habala is famous for its postcard views – it clings to the cliffs like a drawing from an Arabic folktale. Come summer, the town bursts into colour as purple jacaranda trees bloom, draping the streets in nature’s own festival. Local tip: Go early in the morning for ethereal photos as the fog lifts from the valley below.
Back in Abha’s old quarter lies Al Muftaha Art Village, a living gallery of architecture and history. Once a humble cluster of mud-brick homes, it's been transformed into a vibrant cultural haven that celebrates Aseer’s heritage. Every wall bursts with bold hues and intricate Aseeri geometric motifs, hand-painted in the traditional style once passed down through generations. These patterns aren’t just decoration – they’re living stories of family, faith, and identity, woven into the fabric of the village. From cafés to open seating areas, visitors can pause here to enjoy the tranquil view of the Soudah Mountains.
If it's not closed for renovations, make your way to the more traditional Souq Al-Thulatha (the Tuesday Market). Despite the name, it usually opens all week. Be ready to connect with locals as you shop. Traders are storytellers, and conversation is part of the experience. The market itself is like an open-air museum of everyday life in Abha, with stalls stacked with spices, silver jewellery, tribal daggers, and fragrant coffee beans native to the region. You’ll also find more beautifully woven baskets – what the world calls “boho decor” is simply part of everyday life and heritage here.
If you’re craving something more trendy and modern, Art Street is the perfect blend of old and new. Lined with outdoor exhibits and chic cafés, it’s where Abha’s locals and younger crowds come to relax, go for a stroll, or simply sip coffee. There are around 10 art galleries here and a theatre that hosts shows and events.
Touch the clouds on a day trip to Aseer mountains
If you’re a nature lover, Aseer National Park is going to capture your heart. It covers a vast stretch of mountain wilderness and is home to some of Saudi Arabia’s highest peaks, including Jabal Soudah, which soars about 3,000 meters above sea level. You can drive or hike to the summit, where you’ll be greeted by cool temperatures and panoramic views.
Want to kick things up a notch? Try a paragliding session over the mountain ridges (there's a one-time booking fee, and you can reserve online). You can also join a local hiking group exploring hidden trails and secret waterfalls. The Aseer Mountain terrain is dramatic and promises adventure at every turn, but just remember to take it slow and let caution be part of the journey.
In Abha, picnicking is a favourite local pastime. You’ll often see Saudi families gathered under the junipers, sharing grilled meats, sandwiches, and stories as children play. It’s a reminder that this city isn’t just a destination; it’s a family-friendly getaway.
Where to eat: local flavours with a view
When the mountain air stirs your appetite, Abha’s culinary scene celebrates comfort and tradition in equal measure.
If you’d like a modern atmosphere, Art Street is home to cafés that have light fare amid its backdrop of art installations and flower-lined pathways. You’ll also find several restaurants in the area, so you’ll be spoilt by choices.
For dining in the highlands, Al Soudah Park pairs panoramic mountain views with the comforting aroma of slow-cooked local dishes. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over a meal and lose all sense of time – and it’s totally family friendly. From international favourites like Olive Garden to grills and indulgent mezze at local gems such as the Lebanese Karamna Restaurant, Abha’s dining scene offers plenty of flavours.
Wherever you dine, take your time and enjoy yourself. Abha moves to a slower pace, where every meal is savoured with family, friends, or solo. Its beauty lies in the simple pleasure of slowing down.
Embodying local traditions and Aseer culture
When visiting Abha, you have a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the rhythms of mountain life in Saudi Arabia. The people of Aseer are modest in demeanour, proud at heart, and always ready to pull up a chair for guests. They'll insist you try a spoonful of honey or a cup of Saudi coffee – it’s all part of the local welcome.
Like the rest of Saudi Arabia, cultural norms in Aseer are simple, but important. It's always a good idea to dress modestly, especially when visiting a local mosque or village. Also, remember to ask before taking pictures of people or private homes. Abha’s true spirit isn’t just in the mountains you see – it’s in the people who’ve lived harmoniously amongst them for generations.
Relax in elegance after a day well-spent
As the sun fades slowly behind the mountain peaks, it’s time to make your way back to Mercure Hotel Khamis Mushait, where you can unwind in elegant and spacious rooms. The descent on the drive back feels like drifting down from another world – one filled with whimsical purple jacaranda trees and mountain mist.
Back in your room or the lobby café, you can unwind with mint tea or Saudi coffee. Enjoy a quiet dinner at The Point Terrace or The View. If you’re here in the summer, consider cooling off in the swimming pool before ordering room service. The hotel’s cosy atmosphere and local touches perfectly mirror the region’s hospitality.
Frequently asked questions about Abha
What are the must-see attractions in Abha?
Top attractions include Al Muftaha Village, with its colourful art and history; Habala Village, the dramatic cliff-side settlement; and Jabal Soudah, Saudi Arabia’s highest peak. Don’t miss Art Street and the lively Tuesday Market for an authentic taste of local life.
What are the best outdoor adventures in the Aseer Mountains?
Aseer National Park is great for hiking, picnicking, and paragliding. You can also take the cable car over Habala’s cliffs in Abha or enjoy a scenic drive through mountain villages.
How can visitors experience Abha’s local traditions and hospitality?
Join an artisan workshop in Al Muftaha, taste local honey, or share a meal with a local family. Even a chat with a shopkeeper at the souq can become a cultural exchange. The Aseeri people are proud of their heritage and genuinely love to share it.
When is the best time of year to visit Abha?
Summer and early autumn (May to October) are ideal, when Abha’s cool climate provides relief from the heat elsewhere in Saudi Arabia. In winter, temperatures can drop sharply – just remember to pack a warm jacket! For more inspiration, check out some of the most interesting places to visit in Saudi Arabia for first-timers.
Location & contact
Parking
Parking included
Indoor parking
Valet parking
Reservation
Tel : +966 175170444
Mail : reservationsmkm@accor.com
Plan your trip to Saudi Arabia
HOTELS NEARBY
RELATED ARTICLES
:3by2?fmt=webp&op_usm=1.75,0.3,2,0&resMode=sharp2&iccEmbed=true&icc=sRGB&dpr=on,1.5&wid=335&hei=223&qlt=80)
:3by2?fmt=webp&op_usm=1.75,0.3,2,0&resMode=sharp2&iccEmbed=true&icc=sRGB&dpr=on,1.5&wid=335&hei=223&qlt=80)
:3by2?fmt=webp&op_usm=1.75,0.3,2,0&resMode=sharp2&iccEmbed=true&icc=sRGB&dpr=on,1.5&wid=335&hei=223&qlt=80)
MERCURE SPIRIT
From the moment you arrive at a Mercure property, you're immersed in a locally inspired atmosphere that ignites your passion for travel. Every detail, from the décor to our passion for uncovering local food and beverage delights, is curated to reflect the unique essence of each destination.