Holiday destinations have more to offer than just restaurants and cathedrals. The surrounding nature and cultural landmarks it may feature are just as important to see. Spain’s Málaga is one such place. The charming cobbled streets and vibrant markets will be there to welcome you back from your hike, which will have given you memories the city never could. Here are the three best places to visit in Málaga for the adventure and beauty of the experience.
Hiking Preparation
Before setting off, make sure you have everything you need. Good hiking shoes, hat, water, healthy snacks for the road. If a trek seems too long for you, why not car hire Málaga style? An SUV of the Renault Kadjar calibre or equivalent costs around £134, if booked and paid online, seating five people and providing you with much-needed AC. Take the car up to a point and walk the rest of the distance. A GPS and map are good things to have on the journey too.
The alternative option is to book a guided tour with transport. GetYourGuide offers trips to the most popular sights of Málaga and beyond. One of its bestselling packages, starting at £46.88 per person, picks you up from the hotel, provides a guide with knowledge of the region’s history, pays your entrance fees, and more.
Pay close attention, however, to what is advised and not provided by the service. Not adhering to requirements can mean not fully enjoying the trip or even being excluded from the tour entirely for reasons of health and safety.
Caminito del Rey
Málaga’s most famous trail. It weaves its way through the Serranía de Ronda mountains on paths and bridges. It takes four hours to complete the actual trail, but keep in mind that there are many additional distances you may need to cover on foot or bus depending on how you chose to come to the Caminito del Rey. Plan carefully and come prepared. All you will need to worry about is taking in the sights.
El Tajo Gorge
Another stunning destination for hikers, the gorge has the city of Ronda on the top connected by the Puente Nuevo bridge, a tall structure you will definitely want to take pictures of (and on). The trail is approximately a two-hour downward and upward loop of the escarpment, starting and ending in the town. Follow the step-by-step directions of Outdooractive and look forward to waterfalls, cliffs, wilderness and a delicious congratulatory meal at the end.
Rio Chillar
If you prefer river walks, this is the trail for you. The route through the Nerja river is of medium difficulty and quite refreshing. However, the trail can take up to seven hours to complete and it is almost impossible for emergency services to access. According to Surviving Malaga’s instructions, the challenge increases after the first of two pools, so come appropriately prepared for everything a river walk may entail and be careful as you traverse its terrain.
The best advice is to know your limits and not force yourself onto a trail that will likely cause you more harm than good. The point of a holiday is to have fun after all. Pick Málaga adventures that appeal the most and see the region in a completely different light to the average tourist.
