Top 6 Hiking Trails in Malaga: How to Access and Enjoy Them
Optimal Seasons for Hiking in Malaga
Wondering when is the best season to hike in Malaga? Spring and autumn provide the best climate for hiking, offering pleasant temperatures and stunning natural beauty, making these seasons ideal for tackling Malaga’s diverse trails.
What to Pack for Your Hiking Adventure
Preparing properly is key for a successful hike. Essential items to pack for hiking in Malaga include water, snacks, sun protection, appropriate footwear, and a hat. Don’t forget a camera to capture the breathtaking views!
Accessing Malaga’s Top Hiking Spots
Getting to Malaga’s trails is part of the adventure. Public transportation provides convenient access to most of these trails, offering a scenic and eco-friendly way to explore Malaga’s natural beauty.
La Concha: A Must-Visit for Panoramic Coastal Views
La Concha, starting from Refugio de Juanar, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike with some of the most iconic views of Marbella and the Costa del Sol from its peak. This 14 km hike is a must for panoramic seekers.
How to Get There by Public Transport: From Malaga, take the bus to Marbella Bus Station (using Avanza or ALSA services). From there, take a taxi or local bus to Ojén, and then a short taxi ride to Refugio de Juanar. The entire journey takes around 1.5 hours.
El Saltillo: The Thrilling Path with a Hanging Bridge
El Saltillo, known for its 54-meter-long hanging bridge, provides a thrilling hike with magnificent views over the canyon below. This path, offering a unique perspective similar to Caminito del Rey, is perfect for adventurous spirits.
How to Get There by Public Transport: From Malaga, take a bus (ALSA) to Vélez-Málaga, then transfer to a local bus towards Canillas de Aceituno. The bus journey takes about 2 hours. From Canillas de Aceituno, the trailhead is within walking distance.
La Maroma: Summiting Malaga’s Highest Peak
At 2066 meters, La Maroma is the highest peak in Malaga and challenges even seasoned hikers with its steep ascents and rewarding views. Choose from several routes to tailor the experience to your fitness level.
How to Get There by Public Transport: From Malaga, take a bus (ALSA) to Vélez-Málaga, and then transfer to a bus heading to Canillas de Aceituno. The bus ride takes about 2 hours. The trailhead for La Maroma is accessible from the village.
Torrecilla: Trekking Through Ancient Fir Forests
Torrecilla, accessible from Sierra de las Nieves, is a journey through ancient Spanish Fir forests leading to some of the most undisturbed views across the province, making it a perfect choice for nature lovers.
How to Get There by Public Transport: From Malaga, take a bus (ALSA) to Ronda, which takes about 2 hours. From Ronda, take a taxi to the Sierra de las Nieves visitor center, where the trail to Torrecilla begins.
Pico de Mijas: Coastal Views from Above
Overlooking the town of Mijas, Pico de Mijas provides a moderate hike that rewards with stunning views over the Mediterranean and is ideal for those looking for a less strenuous, yet visually rewarding hike.
How to Get There by Public Transport: From Malaga, take the M-112 bus (Consorcio de Transporte Metropolitano) towards Mijas Pueblo. The bus journey takes about 1 hour. The trailhead is a short walk from the bus stop.
Caminito del Rey: A Historical Trek on a Renovated Trail
Caminito del Rey, once known as the world’s most dangerous walkway, now offers a safe and stunning trek along the walls of El Chorro gorge. This path is rich in history and offers breathtaking views of the natural surroundings.
How to Get There by Public Transport: From Malaga, take the Renfe Cercanías C-2 train to El Chorro station. The journey takes about 50 minutes. From the station, it’s a short walk to the start of the Caminito del Rey trail.
Each of these hikes offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty and diverse landscapes of Malaga. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic walk, Malaga’s trails provide the perfect adventure for every explorer.
