Resort in Duhok Offers Cool Summer Escape

Iraq is no stranger to high temperatures, with an average daily temperature of 45 degrees Celsius in the southern regions during the summer.  Amidst the hot weather, the cooler northern Iraqi climates offer relief. 

In the green hills of Duhok lies a refreshing sanctuary which draws in people from all over Iraq, from families to hikers to photographers. 

Just a short drive away from Duhok city, the resort has a meandering stream running through it, with cafes dotted along the banks, serving Kurdish tea and freshly prepared local foods. 

The spot is popular with families, who come to relax under the shady trees, for barbecues and picnics. Also popular with hikers and nature lovers, the resort offers gentle trails and breathtaking valley views. 

Places like this play a larger role in highlighting ongoing environmental shifts in Iraq. With rising global temperatures and prolonged heatwaves becoming more common, destinations such as Duhok offer vital refuge for those seeking a break from extreme temperatures. 

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, Iraq faces significant environmental challenges, ranking among the five countries most vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as drought.

Amid these challenges, places like this serve as powerful examples of sustainable, community-driven tourism.

Local authorities are working closely with the community to make this resort part of a bigger vision, one that supports local tourism, helps rural families thrive, and protects the area’s stunning natural surroundings.

Though its facilities remain modest, the resort offers visitors a connection to nature, tradition and community spirit.