Kessab, Syria: The Ultimate Mountain & Seaside Escape

If you are looking to escape the summer heat, visit Kessab—a picturesque jewel tucked high in the mountains of Latakia, Syria. Nestled on Mount Al-Aqra at over 800 meters above sea level, Kessab Syria is famous for its dense pine forests, crisp air, sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea, and handcrafted laurel soap Kessab artisans have perfected for generations. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures in Kessab hiking spots, tranquil pine-scented breezes, or rich cultural history, this Latakia summer resort offers a memorable Syrian getaway.
​Where is Kessab Located?
​Kessab is situated in the far northwestern corner of Syria near the Turkish border, within the Latakia Governorate.
• ​From Latakia City: ~60 km (about a 1.5-hour scenic drive).
• ​From Damascus: ~380 km (around a 5 to 6-hour drive).
​The road leading from Latakia to Kessab is widely considered one of the most beautiful drives in Syria, winding through coastal mountain peaks, wild meadow flowers, apple orchards, olive groves, and the magnificent Al-Fronlok Forests.
​Why Kessab is So Special
​Kessab uniquely pairs high-altitude pine forests with close proximity to the sea. Its elevation brings delightfully cool weather even during the height of summer, making it a beloved retreat. Rich in Armenian-Syrian heritage, Kessab charms visitors with stone houses, historic churches, lively town plazas, and terraced slopes filled with apple orchards and walnut trees.
​Top Things to Do in Kessab
• ​Hiking & Nature Trails: Walk the popular Uncle Sivak Trail near Olabi Resort leading toward Jabal Al-Nasr (Eagle Mountain), offering panoramas of three distinct valleys.
• ​Camping Trips: The surrounding Al-Fronlok forests offer excellent, shaded spots for overnight camping under starry mountain skies.
• ​Explore Old Architecture & Churches: Stroll through old Armenian neighborhoods featuring restored stone architecture (rebuilt following the 1910 fire) and historic churches such as the Armenian Evangelical Church and Saint Mary’s Church.
• ​Coast & Mountain Dual Experience: In just 20 to 30 minutes, you can drive down the scenic 17 km mountain road down to Ras Al-Bassit or the seaside village of Al-Samra for a Mediterranean beach day, returning to the pine woods by evening.
• ​Shop Local Folk Crafts & Laurel Soap: Pick up traditional olive and laurel oil soaps, handcrafted wooden souvenirs, fresh walnuts, apples, and locally made syrups.
​Where to Stay: Hotels & Accommodation
​Kessab provides a variety of lodging options, ranging from modern resorts to cozy family-run chalets and rental villas:
• ​Olabi Resort & Hotel: A modern luxury resort managed by Olabi Holding, offering modern mountain-view suites, family facilities, fine dining, and complimentary Starlink high-speed internet. (Direct Booking: olabiresort.com / WhatsApp: +963956883006)
• ​Traditional Hotels (3-Star to 4-Star Options): Places like Hotel Kessab, Hotel Tesnim, and local family pensions offer warm, authentic Syrian hospitality.
• ​Villas & Rental Apartments: Widely available across the town for families who prefer self-catering setups during peak summer months.
​Transportation & Getting There
• ​By Car / Taxi: Renting a private car or taking a private taxi from Latakia or Damascus is the most comfortable way to navigate the mountain roads.
• ​Microbuses (Micro): Frequent local minibuses run between Latakia’s main transport hubs and Kessab at affordable rates.
​Must-Try Local Food & Dining
​Kessab is renowned for fresh mountain produce and delicious local specialties:
• ​Famous Foods: Freshly harvested mountain walnuts, crisp Kessab apples, wild herbs, and locally made fruit jams.
• ​Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Syrian-Armenian mezze, grilled meats (Kabab), Mundag (a savory local dish), freshly baked mountain flatbreads, and local wild-thyme pastries (Za'atar).
• ​Dining Spots: The restaurant at Olabi Resort, along with various open-air garden cafes scattered along the road to Ras Al-Bassit, serve meals accompanied by panoramic forest views.
​Best Time for Photography
• ​Golden Hour: 6:00 AM – 7:30 AM (Sunrise over the mountain mist) and 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM (Sunset over the Mediterranean Sea from the high ridges).
• ​Best Views: Mount Al-Aqra lookouts, Jabal Al-Nasr peaks, and the coastal descent toward Al-Samra beach.
​Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting
• ​Al-Fronlok Forests: One of Syria’s largest and greenest nature reserves.
• ​Ras Al-Bassit: A beautiful coastal headland with dark sand beaches and clear blue waters.
• ​Al-Samra Village: A quaint coastal border village made famous as a filming location, offering dramatic cliffs dropping into the sea.
​Best Time to Visit
• ​Summer (June – September): Peak season for cool breezes, bustling nightlife, and outdoor festivals.
• ​Spring (April – May): Best for blooming wildflowers, pleasant temperatures, and hiking.
• ​Autumn (October – November): Golden autumn foliage and apple harvest season.
• ​Winter (December – February): Ideal for quiet retreats and occasional snowy winter landscapes.