ALEPPO, Syria — The Afrin area of Aleppo's northwestern countryside has long been known for its beautiful landscape, and is tentatively reclaiming its role as the region’s favorite touristic spot now that there is relative security.

Domestic tourism around Afrin had stopped in the months before and during the fighting between the Free Syrian Army (FSA) and the Turkish army against the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG). The area regained relative stability after it came under the control of the FSA and the Turkish military following Operation Olive Branch. In the last three months, things have been gradually returning to normal, including in the recreational areas that Aleppans traditionally visit during the summer.

Along with its lakes and mild climate, the Afrin area boasts a number of archaeological sites such as al-Nabi Houri, an ancient city near the picturesque Maydanki Lake and the Church of Saint Simeon Stylites. Before the unrest, Syrian families drove to the region to relax by its lakes, enjoy a barbecue in the orchards or have a simple meal in the open-air restaurants. Today, very few of these places are open, but the day visitors and domestic tourists who could not visit the region due to the YPG's tight control over visitors and passers are returning.

Maydanki Lake used to be a popular picnic site northeast of city. Today, only two of the 10 cafes and restaurants around the lake are open, but that does not stop people who come to picnic or swim.