The route begins approximately 10km from An Namas, or 30km from Wadi Khat (see Route 7) where, after passing an old settlement, you can venture towards the first viewpoint beside the captivating Ru’us Shari Valley. Take the next right for a dramatic outlook on Jabal Mumah. Otherwise, continue onto the main road for a more direct option.

Follow the road towards Tanomah and take the chance to visit Ash Sharaf Park and the juniper forest, where a stroll amongst the colourful wild flora is a pleasant way to break up the journey. The drive continues with views towards Jabal Mana’a and Jabal T’ala’s lush mountain slopes, which also offer up plenty of climbing and hiking opportunities.

Although this route is well paved, travel in a 4WD vehicle if you want to take advantage of some of the lesser explored tracks.

Ru’us Shari Valley

Easily accessible, this 2,500m viewpoint takes you high into the clouds to look out across the mountainous terrain and far-stretching valleys below. If you’re an early riser, the mist and low lighting at sunrise will produce some dramatic photographs. Beware, the crisp fresh air also makes this a popular spot for baboons who will try their best to get in on the photos.

BEEKEEPING, AN ANCIENT PROFESSION

For over 2,000 years, the milder climate and mountainous regions of Taif, Al Bahah and Asir have provided an ideal environment for beekeeping. In ancient times, this involved more primitive methods of rummaging through tree cracks and mountain burrows looking for ‘kawarah’ (beehive in Arabic). Whereas today, modern methods of beekeeping generate considerably more harvests. Each year, the region produces approximately 800 tonnes of honey, all of which are unique in their appearance, smell, taste and nutritional properties.

Jabal Mumah

Nestled at the base of this 2,600m cliff is the scenic village of Jabal Mumah. The traditional stone-walled buildings and mudhouses sit in stark contrast to the modern architecture of today, yet the two blend seamlessly into the landscape. Surrounded by livestock and green terraced fields, it’s worth a photo If nothing else.

Jabal Abdullah and Juniper Forest

It is pretty hard to miss the standalone rock tower of Jabal Abdullah. Situated in Ash Sharaf Park, it is surrounded by juniper pine trees, which according to the locals, have many uses – while birds feed on the juniper fruits, the bark is repurposed for building materials and oils extracted from the pines are used as painkillers or perfume.

Ash Sharaf Park

With fixed climbing routes and favourable year-round temperatures, the park has long since been popular with beginner and experienced climbers. Just a short drive from the centre of Tanomah, it’s the ideal place to base yourself overnight. The park has established camping areas and the guided and self-exploratory hiking trails offer endless amounts of wildlife watching. Keep a lookout for the enchanting blue geckos.

If you decide to camp, make sure to use the designated fire pits available. Store all food and dispose of any rubbish to avoid any unwanted visits from the resident baboons.

Jabal Mana‘a and Jabal T’ala

The mountainous peaks of Jabal Mana’a (2,782m) and Jabal T’ala (2,790m) are situated north of Tanomah and their majestic red ledges are visible from the city. While there are plenty of climbing opportunities off the main route, the surrounding grassy and relatively flat terrain also makes a great place to camp.