Before you begin off-roading, start the day with a trip on the Jabal al Soudah Cable Car and spend some time admiring the views. The route begins just off Highway 214, approximately 15km from Abha, and is an easy gravel track that winds down the slopes of the mountain towards the village of Al Hajirah. Terraced farms and ruins are scattered throughout the area and if you’re looking for a challenge, a rocky drive circumnavigates the village.

By the time you reach the paved road, the route has taken you almost 1,500m below the peak of Jabal al Soudah. As you make your way up, you’ll skirt the edge of Raidah Nature Reserve, a densely wooded area whose unique flora and fauna is protected by the government. Follow the road towards the Cloud Corniche to end your day above the clouds.

Jabal al Soudah Cable Car

Part of the area's cable car network, which has been built to make the most of some of the country’s finest views, the station on top of Jabal al Soudah offers rides to Abha city or the historical village of Rujal (Route 9). The spectacular 7km descent into the historical village takes approximately 20 minutes and is highly recommended. Often foggy at the start due to the high altitude, the descent reveals the stunning views of the valley below. You will be able to see mountain goats winding their way down the valley and kites soaring past. Not for faint-hearted, this trip is exhilarating.

CABLE CARS OF ABHA

The famous cable cars of Abha are an excellent way to view the Sarawat Mountains and surrounding landscape. There are stations at Abha Palace Hotel, Abha Jadidah, Jabal al Soudah and Al Habala. The cars can take you to the remarkable restored village of Rujal (Route 9), the green mountain that sits in the centre of Abha and Al Habala Hanging Village. Some of the trips are seasonal, so always check before heading to a station.

Jabal al Soudah

As the highest peak in the country, it is worth stopping to take some pictures. Close to the Intercontinental Hotel, a wooden path has been constructed to take eager tourists via some of the best viewing spots. The paved road then loops round to another incredible viewpoint where experienced hikers can venture down to the valley below. This epic walk is 5.8km long and is not for the inexperienced. The hiking trail eventually joins with the road, so it's worth having someone pick you up at the end.

Raidah Nature Reserve

Managed by the National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development, this 9km² reserve is serviced by several waterways making it thick with vegetation such as juniper and banana trees. The fertile landscape, bolstered by a hunting ban, attracts a wide range of indigenous creatures including gazelles, baboons and even the Arabian caracal. It is worth checking with the authorities if you wish to enter the area as it is not always open to the public.

The drive down from Jabal al Soudah and up to The Cloud Corniche is steep. Make sure you switch your car to low-range mode or select a low gear to avoid burning out your clutch.

The Cloud Corniche

Referred to as the Cloud Corniche and popular with locals, this meteorological marvel is created when clouds sit on the lower-lying mountains below. The best time to see it is just after rainfall as you are almost guaranteed cloud formation. Even if there are no clouds, the panoramas are still spectacular. It’s very popular at sunset and local merchants can be found selling refreshments at the viewing platform. Al Shahab Park sits at the end of the road making this a great place to stop if you have younger off-roaders in tow.