Hello, hiking enthusiasts! Are you ready to discover the natural beauty of Málaga through its incredible trails? Then this guide is for you! I’ll take you by the hand through stunning landscapes, from challenging peaks to tranquil coastal paths. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure hiking in Málaga!
Table of contents
Coastal hiking routes along the Costa del Sol:
Climb to the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo (Moderate)
Let’s walk between the sky and the sea! Coastal hiking lovers will adore the Maro-Cerro Gordo cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Plus, you’ll discover hidden coves and rich biodiversity. Imagine dolphins playing in crystal-clear waters and seabirds soaring in the sky!
Practical information:
- Distance: 7 km (circular)
- Estimated time: 3 hours
- Ideal season: Spring and autumn
- Accessibility: Suitable for families with children over 8 years old
How to get there: By rental car from Málaga airport, taking exit 295 of the A7 (Nerja). Parking is available near the trailhead.
A bit more about the route: We’ll start our adventure in the village of Maro, gradually ascending well-marked trails. Along the way, we’ll find lookout points with panoramic views, including the Torre Vigía del Pino, a 16th-century watchtower built to monitor the coast for pirates. How cool is that?! We’ll also admire the beauty of hidden coves like Cala de Maro, a true paradise with turquoise waters, perfect for a refreshing swim! And at the top of Cerro Gordo, we’ll be surprised by the coastal views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Points of interest:
- Torre Vigía del Pino: Historical watchtower with panoramic views.
- Cala de Maro: Picturesque cove with crystal-clear waters.
- Cerro Gordo Cliffs: Stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
A tip: Bring binoculars to appreciate the marine and bird life. You’ll be amazed at the number of species you can spot!
Conquer the Pico de la Concha (Difficult)
If you’re experienced hikers looking for a challenge, Pico de la Concha is your route! It’s the symbol of Marbella, offering breathtaking panoramic views from the Costa del Sol to Sierra Nevada. Simply amazing!
Practical information:
- Distance: 14 km (round trip)
- Estimated time: 6-7 hours
- Ideal season: Spring and autumn
- Accessibility: Only for experienced hikers due to the elevation gain and rocky terrain.
- How to get there: By car to the Refugio de Juanar. Parking is limited.
A bit more about the route: We’ll start at the Refugio de Juanar, ascending a rocky trail with significant elevation gain. As we advance, the vegetation will change, transitioning from pine forests to mountain scrub areas. A very diverse landscape! We’ll enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings and admire the native flora and fauna. And at the summit, the reward: a 360-degree panoramic view encompassing the Costa del Sol, the Strait of Gibraltar, and, if we’re lucky and the day is clear, we can even see the African coast!
Points of interest:
- Refugio de Juanar: Starting point of the route, with picnic tables and facilities.
- Cruz del Juanar: Lookout point with panoramic views.
- Pico de la Concha Summit: Stunning 360-degree views.
A tip: Start the ascent early in the morning to avoid the heat and bring plenty of water. We don’t want to get dehydrated!
Pinares de San Antón: A respite near the city (Easy)
Fuente https://es.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/user.do?id=9466
Do you want to enjoy nature without straying far from the city? The Pinares de San Antón are perfect for you! It’s a place of great tranquility with easy trails among pines, lookout points with panoramic views of Málaga, and picnic areas to relax.
Practical information:
- Distance: Variable, multiple trails available.
- Estimated time: 1-3 hours, depending on the chosen trail.
- Ideal season: All year round, ideal for hot days due to the pine shade.
- Accessibility: Suitable for all levels, including families with young children and the elderly.
¿Cómo llegar? Fácilmente accesible en coche desde Málaga capital, con aparcamiento disponible en la entrada del parque.
A bit more about the route: We’ll stroll calmly among pines and holm oaks, enjoying the fresh air and the shade of the trees. We’ll discover the Fuente de la Reina, an ancient spring with a romantic legend. I’ll tell you all about it! We’ll also visit the Mirador del Cochino, famous for its spectacular views of Málaga at sunset. And to finish, we can relax in the picnic areas or enjoy a meal at the park’s restaurant.
Points of interest:
- Fuente de la Reina: Historical spring with a romantic legend.
- Mirador del Cochino: Panoramic views of Málaga, especially at sunset.
- Park restaurant: Ideal for enjoying local cuisine.
A tip: Visit the Mirador del Cochino at sunset for the best views. A spectacle of colors you can’t miss!
Hiking in the Serranía de Ronda:
Cueva del Gato and its surroundings (Moderate)
Let’s delve into the Serranía de Ronda! The Cueva del Gato is a hidden paradise with an impressive entrance that looks like a cat’s head. Amazing! Inside awaits a subterranean river, and outside, natural pools formed by the Guadiaro River. Perfect for a dip!
Practical information:
- Distance: 4 km (round trip to the cave)
- Estimated time: 2-3 hours
- Ideal season: Spring and autumn
- Accessibility: Suitable for families with children, but caution is recommended near the water.
How to get there: By car to Benaoján. Parking is available near the trailhead.
A bit more about the route: We’ll start by exploring the Cueva del Gato, a geological marvel with a unique entrance that gives it its name. Inside, we’ll admire its crystal-clear lake. Then, time for a swim in the natural pools of the Guadiaro River! I recommend the Charco de la Barranca, surrounded by lush vegetation. And if we have energy left, we can explore nearby trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Points of interest:
- Cueva del Gato: Cave with a unique entrance and interior lake.
- Charco de la Barranca: Natural pool ideal for swimming.
- Guadiaro River: Beautiful river running through the area.
A tip: If you want to explore the cave’s interior, bring a flashlight (caving experience recommended). And if you like swimming, don’t forget your swimsuit!
Chestnut Route in the Genal Valley (Moderate)
Get ready to enter a fairytale landscape! The Chestnut Route in the Genal Valley offers a journey through deciduous forests with chestnut, cork oak, and oak trees. And in autumn, when the chestnuts turn golden and reddish, it’s an incredible color spectacle!
Practical information:
- Distance: Variable, multiple routes available.
- Estimated time: 2-5 hours, depending on the chosen trail.
- Ideal season: Autumn, to enjoy the chestnuts’ color spectacle.
- Accessibility: Suitable for most levels, some trails with moderate elevation gain.
How to get there: By car, the route extends through various villages in the Genal Valley.
A bit more about the route: The Chestnut Route has several trails that traverse the Genal Valley. We’ll enjoy the changing landscape, passing through chestnut, cork oak, and oak forests. We’ll visit charming villages like Pujerra, known for its red roofs, and Parauta, with its traditional Andalusian architecture. And to finish, we’ll admire the views from the Mirador del Genal, with panoramic vistas of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Points of interest:
- Village of Pujerra: Picturesque village with red roofs.
- Village of Parauta: Charming village with traditional architecture.
- Mirador del Genal: Panoramic views of the valley.
A tip: If you can, visit the area during a chestnut festival. You’ll taste local products and enjoy the local culture! An authentic experience.
Saltillo Trail in Canillas de Aceituno (Moderate)
Get ready for an exciting adventure! The Saltillo Trail in Canillas de Aceituno is known as one of the most impressive paths in the Axarquía. It crosses hanging bridges and traverses mountainous landscapes that will leave you breathless. Imagine walking between gorges and enjoying panoramic views of the Mediterranean!
Practical information:
- Distance: 8 km (round trip)
- Estimated time: 4 hours
- Ideal season: Spring and autumn
- Accessibility: Suitable for hikers with an intermediate fitness level.
How to get there: By rental car, taking exit 277 of the A-7 towards Vélez-Málaga, then following the A-356 and MA-4106 to Canillas de Aceituno. Parking is available in the village.
A bit more about the route: We’ll start our adventure in the village of Canillas de Aceituno, ascending a well-marked trail. Along the way, we’ll cross several hanging bridges, the most spectacular being the Saltillo Bridge, one of the longest and highest in Spain. From here, the views of the gorges and the Almanchares River are simply stunning.
Also, along the trail, we can enjoy the native flora and fauna, including mountain goats and golden eagles. As we advance, the path will take us through varied landscapes, from Mediterranean vegetation areas to more rocky and challenging sections.
Points of interest:
- Saltillo Bridge: One of the most impressive hanging bridges in Spain.
- Almanchares River Gorge: Spectacular views of the cliffs and river.
- Village of Canillas de Aceituno: Charming white village with narrow, picturesque streets.
A tip: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and moments along the trail. And don’t forget water and some energy snacks, as the trail can be demanding in some sections.
Pico de la Reina Trail in the Montes de Málaga (Moderate)
Get ready to explore nature at its finest! The Pico de la Reina Trail in the Montes de Málaga offers stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean. Plus, you’ll traverse lush forests and discover ancient wineries. Imagine walking among pines and cork oaks while enjoying the fresh mountain air!
Practical information:
- Distance: 6 km (circular)
- Estimated time: 3 hours
- Ideal season: All year round, especially in spring and autumn.
- Accessibility: Suitable for families with children over 8 years old.
How to get there: By car from Málaga city, following the A-7000 road towards Colmenar. Parking is available at the Torrijos recreational area, where the route begins.
A bit more about the route: We’ll start our adventure at the Torrijos recreational area, ascending a well-marked trail among pine and oak forests. Along the way, we’ll find several lookout points with panoramic views of Málaga and the coast. One of the highlights is the Mirador del Pico de la Reina, from where we can enjoy a 360-degree view that encompasses the city and the sea.
Along the trail, we’ll discover ancient wineries, like the Lagar de Torrijos, now an ecomuseum. Here we’ll learn about the region’s winemaking history. We’ll also pass by the Fuente de la Reina, a natural spring with a romantic legend you’ll love.
Points of interest:
- Mirador del Pico de la Reina: 360-degree panoramic views of Málaga and the Mediterranean.
- Lagar de Torrijos: Ancient winery turned ecomuseum.
- Fuente de la Reina: Historical spring with a romantic legend.
A tip: Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and moments along the trail. Don’t forget water and some energy snacks, as the trail can be demanding in some sections. Enjoy the fresh air and tranquility of the forest!
Caminito del Rey: An adventure through gorges (Moderate)
Caminito del Rey is one of Málaga’s most famous routes, and it’s no wonder! It’s a hanging walkway built into the walls of the Gaitanes Gorge. From there, we’ll have spectacular views of the gorge and the Guadalhorce River. We’ll traverse tunnels carved into the rock and cross hanging bridges. An exciting and memorable experience!
Practical information:
- Distance: 7.7 km (linear)
- Estimated time: 3-4 hours
- Ideal season: Spring and autumn
- Accessibility: Suitable for most people, although prior reservation is required.
How to get there: By car or bus to the El Chorro area. It is recommended to book your ticket online in advance.
A bit more about the route: We’ll start our journey through the Gaitanes Gorge, traversing tunnels carved into the rock and crossing hanging bridges over the Guadalhorce River. We’ll admire the majesty of the gorge’s vertical walls, reaching 400 meters in height. Impressive! One of the highlights is the Hanging Bridge, a transparent walkway suspended over 100 meters above the river. From there, we’ll have incredible views of the Conde de Guadalhorce Reservoir and the Chorro Dam.
Points of interest:
- Gaitanes Gorge: Impressive gorge carved by the Guadalhorce River.
- Hanging Bridge: Transparent walkway suspended at a great height.
- Conde de Guadalhorce Reservoir: Reservoir offering beautiful panoramic views.
- Chorro Dam: Historical engineering work that regulates the Guadalhorce River.
A tip: Wear comfortable and suitable footwear for walking on walkways and follow safety rules. Safety first!
Circular Trail of Lagar de Torrijos (Easy)
If you’re looking for an easy and pleasant route in the Montes de Málaga, the Circular Trail of Lagar de Torrijos is perfect for you. We’ll walk among pine and oak forests, breathing the fresh mountain air. We’ll discover ancient wineries, like the Lagar de Torrijos, now an ecomuseum. And we’ll enjoy panoramic views of Málaga from the Mirador del Cochino.
Practical information:
- Distance: 6 km (circular)
- Estimated time: 2-3 hours
- Ideal season: All year round
- Accessibility: Suitable for all levels, including families with children.
How to get there: If you arrive by AVE or bus, you can pick up your rental car at the Málaga train station and, just 11 kilometers away, you’ll reach the Lagar de Torrijos recreational area in the Montes de Málaga. Parking is available.
A bit more about the route: We’ll enter the Montes de Málaga Natural Park and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. We’ll walk along a well-marked trail, surrounded by the scent of pine and oak trees. We’ll visit the Lagar de Torrijos, an ancient winery restored as an ecomuseum. We’ll learn about the traditional winemaking process! And to finish, we’ll climb to the Mirador del Cochino to admire the panoramic views of Málaga.
Points of interest:
- Lagar de Torrijos: Ancient winery turned ecomuseum.
- Mirador del Cochino: Panoramic views of the city of Málaga.
- Pine and oak forests: Enjoy the shade and scent of Mediterranean vegetation.
A tip: Visit the Lagar de Torrijos Ecomuseum to learn about the region’s winemaking history. You’ll be surprised!
Practical tips for hikers in Málaga
To fully enjoy your hiking routes in Málaga, here are some practical tips:
Planning:
- Research the route in advance: consult maps, guides, and websites to learn about the route’s characteristics, distance, elevation gain, and difficulty.
- Choose a route suitable for your physical level: don’t venture on a route that’s too demanding if you’re not prepared.
- Check the weather forecast: avoid hiking on days with rain, strong winds, or extreme temperatures.
Equipment:
- Wear appropriate footwear, like hiking boots or trekking shoes, that provide good grip and support.
- Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that allows you to move freely.
- Bring a light backpack with enough capacity to carry water, food, sunscreen, a small first aid kit, and other necessary items.
- Don’t forget to bring enough water, especially on hot days or if the route is long.
- Bring energy snacks to replenish energy during the hike.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- A small first aid kit with band-aids, bandages, disinfectant, and painkillers can be very useful.
- Bring a map of the area or a GPS to orient yourself during the hike.
Safety:
- Inform someone about your route: before you leave, inform a family member or friend about the route you’ll take and the estimated return time.
- Avoid adverse weather conditions: don’t hike if there’s a forecast of rain, strong winds, or extreme temperatures.
- Know your physical limits: don’t push yourself to complete a route if you’re tired or in discomfort.
- Ensure your mobile phone has enough battery and bring a portable charger if necessary.
Respect for nature:
- Leave no trace: don’t litter in the countryside and pick up any waste you find.
- Carry all your trash with you: don’t leave anything in nature, even organic waste.
- Follow marked trails: don’t stray from marked paths to avoid damaging flora and fauna.
- Respect wildlife: observe wildlife from a distance and don’t disturb animals. Don’t pick flowers or plants.
Technology and hiking: useful apps
To plan your hiking routes, orient yourself during the hike, and record your experiences, there are numerous mobile apps that can be very useful:
- AllTrails: Detailed maps, route information, user reviews.
- Wikiloc: Route maps, GPS tracking, statistics.
- Gaia GPS: Topographic maps, offline navigation.
- iNaturalist: Flora and fauna identification.
- Strava: Activity tracking, performance analysis.
Discovering Málaga on foot: an unforgettable adventure
Walking through Málaga will allow you to discover its essence. The trails will take you through diverse landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites, offering you an enriching and memorable experience. Get inspired to explore Málaga on foot and discover its hidden corners!
Local initiatives and sustainability
Málaga cares about the conservation of its natural environment, and you can be part of it. Here are some ideas:
- Participate in local conservation initiatives: find out about local organizations working on environmental protection and collaborate with them.
- Support sustainability: choose accommodations, restaurants, and activities that promote sustainable practices.
- Buy local products: consume local products, supporting local producers and the local economy.
- Collaborate with reforestation projects: find out about reforestation projects in the area and collaborate with them.
- Be a responsible tourist: respect the natural environment, local culture, and customs.
Summary of routes and points of interest
Hiking routes along the Costa del Sol:
| Route | Starting Point | Points of Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Climb to the Cliffs of Maro-Cerro Gordo | Maro | Torre Vigía del Pino, Cala de Maro, Cerro Gordo Cliffs |
| Conquer the Pico de la Concha | Refugio de Juanar (near Marbella) | Cruz del Juanar, Pico de la Concha Summit |
| Pinares de San Antón | Parque Natural Pinares de San Antón (Málaga) | Fuente de la Reina, Mirador del Cochino |
Hiking in the Serranía de Ronda:
| Route | Starting Point | Points of Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Cueva del Gato and its Surroundings | Benaoján | Cueva del Gato, Charco de la Barranca |
| Chestnut Route in the Genal Valley | Pujerra, Parauta | Mirador del Genal |
Hiking in the Axarquía:
| Route | Starting Point | Points of Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Saltillo Trail in Canillas de Aceituno | Canillas de Aceituno | Saltillo Bridge, Almanchares River Gorge |
Hiking in the Montes de Málaga:
| Route | Starting Point | Points of Interest |
|---|---|---|
| Pico de la Reina Trail in the Montes de Málaga | Torrijos recreational area | Mirador del Pico de la Reina, Lagar de Torrijos, Fuente de la Reina |
| Caminito del Rey | El Chorro area | Gaitanes Gorge, Hanging Bridge, Conde de Guadalhorce Reservoir, Chorro Dam |
| Circular Trail of Lagar de Torrijos | Lagar de Torrijos recreational area | Lagar de Torrijos, Mirador del Cochino |
