{"id":16350,"date":"2015-06-10T17:33:21","date_gmt":"2015-06-10T15:33:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/travesiapirenaica.com\/?p=16350"},"modified":"2021-10-20T17:32:44","modified_gmt":"2021-10-20T15:32:44","slug":"hiking-andalusia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/travesiapirenaica.com\/en\/senderismo-andalucia\/","title":{"rendered":"The best hiking trails in Andalusia"},"content":{"rendered":"
Walking in six of southern Spain's most beautiful Natural Parks, all of which share a part of the magnificent Betic mountain range. Includes the author's recommendations for the best places to stay in or around southern Spain's most beautiful mountain villages, many of which date back to Moorish times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Natural Parks of Andalusia generally enjoy a mild climate in winter, spring and autumn, so walking is possible at any time from mid-September to mid-June. Even in mid-summer you can comfortably hike in the higher Natural Parks of Cazorla and La Alpujarra.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
READ ALSO: <\/strong>The best trekking routes in Spain\".<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n The picturesque coastline of Andalusia is a walker's\nwalker's dream. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, walkers are\nhikers are rewarded with dazzling mountain views and breathtaking seascapes.\nmountains and breathtaking seascapes. The sense of history\nhistory embedded in these ancient coastal paths - which date back to ancient times - is\nthe sense of history embedded in these ancient coastal paths - dating back to bygone eras - is an added delight that enriches\nfurther enriches the walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The coastal strip of Andalusia enjoys a temperate climate in winter, spring and autumn.\nmild climate in winter, spring and autumn, while even in mid-summer walks can be\neven in mid-summer walks can be pleasant thanks to the cooling influence of the Mediterranean Sea.\nthanks to the cooling influence of the Mediterranean Sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sierra Nevada, the highest mountain range in mainland Spain and Western Europe outside the Alps. Easily accessible from Granada and Malaga, it is a world of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys, far removed from the crowded beaches of the Costa del Sol just two hours away. Routes extend throughout the national park, with attractive villages and towns such as Trev\u00e9lez, Lanjar\u00f3n, Hoya de la Mora and Cumbres Verdes as possible bases for a walking holiday. In the Sierra Nevada we can visit the highest point in mainland Spain, the Mulhac\u00e9n, or walk through villages such as Trev\u00e9lez, Lanjar\u00f3n and Capileira. It includes traverses along the main ridge, high mountain climbs and the challenge of the \"Three Peaks\" of the sierra.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The routes are mainly undertaken in summer; in winter we must bear in mind that, depending on the altitude, we may encounter wintry conditions. In the summer months, the temperature can be a problem, and we have to take into account the location of the springs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Trev\u00e9lez, Capileira, Lanjar\u00f3n,\nNig\u00fcelas, D\u00edlar, Cumbres Verdes, Granada, Sierra Nevada, G\u00fc\u00e9jar\nSierra, J\u00e9rez de Marsquesado<\/p>\n\n\n\n Mulhacen, the highest mountain on the Iberian Peninsula; Los Tres Picos - the three highest peaks of the Sierra Nevada; Los Tres Miles Integral - a multi-day trek covering all the main 3000m peaks; high level summer ascents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The routes have been carefully chosen to showcase the dramatic landscape of the Sierra Nevada, with rocky barren peaks, lush green valleys, arid wastelands and tranquil lakes. From quieter hikes in the Cumbres Verde area to ascents of the highest peak in mainland Spain, Mulhacen, <\/p>\n\n\n\n While some are day or half-day hikes, others take advantage of the region's network of mountain refuges or offer the opportunity for free camping. Also included are three longer traverses: 'Los Tres Picos' (Veleta, Mulhac\u00e9n and Alcazaba), 'Los Tres Millas' Integral (a multi-day hike covering all the main 3000m peaks in the range) and an overview of the 302km Sulayr GR240. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The small town of Nerja, on the Costa del Sol, is nestled beneath a range of mighty mountains. These are the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama. Together they comprise 50 mountains of over 1,000 m, the highest, La Maroma, over 2,000 m, and offer hikers exceptional routes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Explore the white mountain villages of Frigiliana, Competa, Canillas de Albaida, Canilas de Aceituno and Salares, all within easy reach of Nerja. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The best time of year for hiking in these mountains is from late April to late May. Late summer and early autumn are also cooler, but the ground is 'burnt' and dry. Between November and April there is more chance of rain, but it is still acceptable for hiking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Any of the routes in this guide can be done as a day trip from Nerja, making this charming coastal town a good place to rest and use as a base camp. Nerja and V\u00e9lez-M\u00e1laga<\/p>\n\n\n\n outstanding natural beauty; 50\nMunro Mountains in an area the size of the Isle of Skye;\nsevere geological features on mountains over 2000m;\ntranquil and remote valleys where nature is just minutes away.\naway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Routes in the Sierras of Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama in the region of Axarquia. The walks are accessible from the towns of Nerja and Velez-Malaga on the Costa del Sol. The routes range from easy walks to strenuous ascents. The mountains are largely limestone, with some peaks reaching over 2000m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The well-located town of Ronda can be a great starting point for a hiking holiday in the Andalusian mountains, as can any of the picturesque white villages nestling among the surrounding hills. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While Ronda is famous for its impressive gorge and Moorish architecture, the surrounding countryside offers magnificent scenery at every turn. With spectacular limestone peaks, fertile river valleys and ancient almond and olive groves, the natural beauty of Ronda and Grazalema is sure to impress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Andalusia can be visited with the intention of hiking practically all year round, thanks to its relatively mild winters: the best time is from mid-September to mid-June. During the summer months temperatures can be too high for easy walking, while occasional snowfalls in winter can make the higher walks more challenging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ronda, Grazalema, Zahara de la Sierra, El Burgo, J\u00fazcar, Benarrab\u00e1, Genalguac\u00edl, Gauc\u00edn, Montejaque, Benaoj\u00e1n, Jimera de L\u00edbar, Igualeja, Alpandeire, Cartajima, Benamahoma<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ronda, with its spectacular gorge; the UNESCO biosphere reserves of Sierra de Grazalema and Sierra de las Nieves; the spectacular limestone peaks; the fertile river valleys; the almond blossom in early spring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This guide presents mainly circular walks in the comarca of Ronda, covering the city and its surroundings, the Sierra de Grazalema and Sierra de las Nieves Natural Parks (both UNESCO Biosphere Reserves), and the Genal and Guadiaro Valleys. Ranging in length from 3.5 to 16.5 km, many hikes are easy to moderate and almost all can be done from mid-September to mid-June, thanks to the area's relatively mild winters. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Hiking guide to the GR7 in Andalusia, from Tarifa to Puebla de don Fadrique. Both variants included; north through Cordoba, south through Granada. Over 700km long, the walk takes over a month and explores varied landscapes, including the Sierra Nevada. Practical details of accommodation are included to help with planning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The fully signposted route passes through seven stunning natural parks and the Sierra Nevada National Park, home to the highest peak in mainland Spain, the Mulhacen. All the information needed to plan a hike is included. The stage maps use official IGN maps. Detailed route descriptions are provided for about 60 days of walking, with options to create shorter sections and days. The GR7 avoids tarmac roads wherever possible, instead taking old trade routes, bridle paths and even goat tracks, there are only a few steep uphill sections, so this route is suitable for walkers of reasonable fitness and navigational ability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With its white sandy beaches, pine and oak forests, desert-like plateaus, snow-capped peaks, traditional villages, lush river valleys and olive groves, the GR7 in Andalusia takes you on a journey through the most geographically diverse region of the Iberian Peninsula. Famous among holidaymakers for its coastline, the GR7 offers the chance to see another side of Andaluc\u00eda. You'll explore little-visited hidden gems, enjoy natural parks and visit quiet, unspoilt villages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Detailed route description for about 60 days of walking, with options to create shorter sections and days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Information on all the villages en route, including accommodation, so you can plan your own route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Spring (March-June) and autumn (September-October) are recommended. Avoid July and August for heat (up to 40\u00b0C) and winter for lack of facilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Starting point: Tarifa; finishing point\nPuebla de Don Fadrique<\/p>\n\n\n\n Signposted route. North variant = 711.5 km with almost 16,500 m ascent (34-41 days). Southern variant = 719.8 km with 16,860 m ascent (34-42 days). Facilities en route most days<\/p>\n\n\n\n Nature parks, historic towns, whitewashed villages of the Alpujarras, cave houses, Ronda, view from Antequera castle, Priego de C\u00f3rdoba, castles in Ja\u00e9n, museum in Orce<\/p>\n\n\n\n Complete guide to walking the GR7 through Andalusia in southern Spain. Both variants are included, the northern one visiting Cordoba and the southern one passing through Granada and the Sierra Nevada. This wonderfully varied route starts in the far south of Spain, on the coast at Tarifa, and winds through the provinces of Cadiz and Malaga before splitting off. The northern fork is 718km, 34 to 41 days in total, while the southern fork is 735km, 35 to 42 days. Both routes end in Puebla de don Fadrique. Part of the E4 route. <\/p>\n\n\n\n What are some recommended hiking routes in Andalusia? Let's take a look at some of them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the routes to practice hiking in Andalusia<\/strong> The most interesting is the Rio Chillar route near Nerja in Malaga, where sport and contact with nature come together for a simply spectacular walk. The route goes all the way to the well known Vado de los Patos, and even further on to the famous dam or Cortijo Im\u00e1n. Usually most walkers go as far as the Vado, as the section from there to the Cortijo is steeper and more difficult. In general, the route is of medium difficulty, where the first section of the route covers a distance of 8 km one way. The time required to complete the round trip is approximately 6 to 7 hours depending on your speed and the number of stops you make. The scenery on this route is breathtaking, and part of the way along the river, so it is advisable to wear water shoes. One of the main attractions of the Chillar River Route is at one of the river's ascents, where there is a large water reservoir. Here the more daring hikers make a stop to bathe in this beautiful natural pool covered with rocks where you can cool off after your exercise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Caminito del Rey is possibly the best known hiking route in Andalusia on the list. Just the pictures that flood the internet, make anyone who wants to enjoy nature and live an experience full of emotion, want to be there. Indeed, that reality is seen year after year, as thousands of locals and tourists from all over Europe take this route that takes place over huge wooden walkways attached to the rocks, generating an indescribable feeling of vertigo as you walk along the edge of the cliff. The route rises above the Guadalhorce River covering a distance of 8 kilometres. Other recommended hiking routes in Malaga are: Ruta de la Concha del Juanar, Pico de los Reales, R\u00edo Verde Sierra de las Nieves and Ruta SL-A 169 Fuente del Porej\u00f3n.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At a moderate pace, the route can be done in about 4 hours round trip. The route is about 12 km long, and can be done along the beach itself, although it is more advisable to do it from the top, from where you can see the best panoramic view. The backdrop is unbeatable, as you will have the waters of Conil beach, breathing fresh air and enjoying the grandeur of the sea. As the route progresses you will see that the views get even better, making this one of the best hiking routes in Andalusia. The last kilometre of the route ends when you reach the cove of the oil, and you will see the famous sandbank near the port area, which is very popular with tourists. On the other side you can see the Roche lighthouse. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most famous routes in Cadiz, but it is not the only one as this province has several very beautiful and interesting hiking routes such as: Ruta Punta del Boqueron, the signposted trail Torro del Tajo (La Bre\u00f1a Natural Park), the signposted trail Las Quebradas (La Bre\u00f1a Natural Park), the Arrollo Mongragon route or the trail Fuente del Porrejon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In Huelva, specifically in the Huelva municipality of Aracena, you will find numerous trails of varying lengths and with easy to moderate difficulty. You will also find several hiking trails that form part of the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Natural Park. The Aracena route is rated medium to high difficulty and starts at Calle B in the Pol\u00edgono Cantagallo. On this route you will see interesting curiosities such as the explanatory panels about the Iberian pig that is usually reared in the area. Along the route your eyes will be delighted by the incredible landscapes, where the colourful flowers of the countryside and imposing leafy trees stand out. What's more, if you decide to follow this route, you can also take the opportunity to visit the monuments that form part of the municipality's heritage. Some other hiking routes in Huelva that are worth doing are the following: La Turbera signposted path (Paraje Natural Marismas del Rio Piedras), Laguna Del Portil signposted path (Reserva Natural Laguna de El Portil), Nueva Umbr\u00eda route (complex of the marshes of the river Piedras).<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Andalusian province of Cordoba also has some great hiking routes to do with friends, as a couple or with the family. One of the best known is the Ruta del Arroyo de Guadalora, in the Sierra de Hornachuelos. Hornachuelos is undoubtedly the largest natural park in Cordoba, located in the heart of the Sierra Morena. One of the main characteristics of this route are its numerous streams and reservoirs to enjoy a landscape bathed by water. The local fauna is another reason to take this route, as you will see birds such as the black vulture and the imperial eagle. It is definitely a wonderful natural area with little difficulty, so you can even do this route with your family. Cordoba also has other hiking routes, among which are: the Laguna de Z\u00f3\u00f1ar Route, the Cerro Abuchite Route, the R\u00edo Yeguas Route and the Route from Almod\u00f3var del R\u00edo to the Bre\u00f1a reservoir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The route of the Cahorros is located in Monachil, approximately 8 km from Granada and is one of the most popular routes to practice the hiking in Andalusia<\/strong> most exciting. Despite that, it is curious that it is one of the most unknown for tourists, but it is certainly perfect for the family, and even more so if you have a great adventurous spirit. Here you will find four suspension bridges, the longest of which has a length of 55 metres suspended 15 metres above the river. You will also see caves, natural pools and impressive waterfalls that form part of the entire route, making this one of the best scenic routes in Andalusia. Last but not least, if you are a climbing enthusiast, you will find huge rock walls where you can practice this sport. Granada also has other very interesting hiking routes such as the following: Ruta Cerrada del R\u00edo Castril, Ruta Barranco del Pleito, Ruta del Mamut and Ruta R\u00edo D\u00farcal to mention just a few.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ja\u00e9n has fun and beautiful hiking routes that have something in common: the variety of wildlife and beautiful landscapes with waterfalls. Specifically in Cazorla, you have the Rio Borosa route which is characterised by its natural pools, huge waterfalls and diversity of fauna. It is one of the longest routes, as it is approximately 20 km long and can easily be done in about 6 hours as it is classified with an easy difficulty. The route follows a quiet path until you reach the fish farm and from there continue to the source of the river. The route is signposted, and runs for the most part around the river, enjoying the tranquillity, the fresh air and the beauty of the scenery. However, in Ja\u00e9n you have the possibility of following other interesting routes such as: the route of the Organs of Despe\u00f1aperros, the path of the Chorreras in Valdepe\u00f1as, the route of the Sierra de And\u00fajar Nature Reserve or the route of the Cimbarra Nature Reserve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Arroyo de las Ca\u00f1as Route is the least difficult on our list, making it ideal for families. It is a circular path which is very well signposted with a start and finish and is located in El Pedroso. The protagonist of this route is the famous Arroyo de las Ca\u00f1as, as most of the route passes through its waters and the pleasant shadows of the holm oaks. Without a doubt, this route is ideal for enjoying the beautiful views of the Sierra Norte with your loved ones. The route is 12 kilometres long and of easy difficulty. Other recommended hiking routes in Seville are the following: Cote Castle Route (Montellano), La Zarcita Circular Route (Aznalc\u00f3llar), Mulva Ruins Route, Pico El Terril Route or the Cerro del Hierro Route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nAracena<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe routes<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nCosta de la Luz<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nNatural Park of La Bre\u00f1a and the\nMarismas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Natural Park of Los Alcornocales and\nof the Strait<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nCoast of Almeria<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nN\u00edjar-Cabo de Gata Natural Park<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nSierra Nevada<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nWhen to go?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Reference cities & Services<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
To be seen<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe routes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Trev\u00e9lez<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Capileira<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Poqueira Refuge<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Western Alpujarras<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
D\u00edlar Valley<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Cumbres Verdes<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Ski resort - Hoya de la Mora<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Vereda de la Estrella\/Valle del Genil<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
J\u00e9rez del Marquesado and Postero Refuge\nHigh<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Puerto de la Ragua<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nTraverses and long distance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nHigh Mountain ascents and climbs (grade 2 and 3 pitches)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nMountains of Nerja: Sierras Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama in the Axarquia region <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nPractical guide<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When to go?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Cities & Services<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
To be seen<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe routes <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Nerja and surroundings<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Competa<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
La Maroma<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Rio Verde Valley<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Routes from the north<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Swan<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nSierras de Ronda and Grazalema: Natural Parks of Grazalema and La Sierra de las Nieves, Genal and Guadiaro valleys.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nPractical guide<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
When to go?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Cities & Services<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
To be seen<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe routes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Ronda and the Sierra de las Nieves<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Genal and Guadiaro Valleys<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The Sierra de Grazalema<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nCazorla<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe routes<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe best trekking in Andalusia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
GR 7 E-4 Andalusian Footpath: from Tarifa to Puebla de Don Fadrique <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nWhen to go?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Cities & Services<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Difficulty<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
To be seen<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nThe route<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n1 Cadiz and Malaga<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Cadiz <\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Malaga <\/h6>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n2 North Fork - M\u00e1laga, C\u00f3rdoba and Ja\u00e9n<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Malaga <\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Cordoba <\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Ja\u00e9n <\/h6>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n3 South Fork - Malaga and Granada<\/h5>\n\n\n\n
Malaga <\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Granada (and Almeria)<\/h6>\n\n\n\n
Other routes:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nDiscover the best hiking routes in Andalusia.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
1. Route of the River Chillar, Nerja Malaga.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
2. Caminito de Rey Route, Malaga.<\/a><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

3. Route from Conil to Calas de Roche in C\u00e1diz.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
4. Route of Aracena in Huelva.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
5. Route of the Arroyo de Guadalora Cordoba.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
6. Los Cahorros Route, Granada.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
7. Rita R\u00edo Borosa at Cazorla in Ja\u00e9n.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
8. Route of the Arroyo de las Ca\u00f1as, Seville.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Find your hiking route by province<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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