27 January 2025
5 minutes
Hiking in Málaga, Spain, allows you to discover a natural paradise. With trails for all levels, find the perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history and unforgettable views.
27 January 2025
5 minutes
Málaga is a province in the southern Spanish region of Andalućia. While it may be known for its bustling coastal resorts and vibrant city life, those who venture beyond the tourist-packed beaches and streets can discover a treasure trove of hiking trails that offer breathtaking views, unique flora and fauna, and a rich cultural heritage.
This route offers some of the most iconic and thrilling hiking in Málaga. The King’s Little Pathway is a 7.7-kilometre trail that meanders through the El Chorro Gorge about an hour by car northwest of Málaga. It was once notorious as the world’s most dangerous hike, but was extensively restored before reopening in 2015. The hike is famous for the walkways that are pinned to sheer cliff faces, with some sections hanging 100 metres above the gorge floor.
It may have been perilous in the past but the trail now has reinforced railings and plenty of safety measures. Even so, adventure seekers will love unparalleled views of the Desfiladero de Los Gaitanes Gorge, and the trail is also home to highland birds of prey like Egyptian vultures, griffon vultures and golden eagles. Those with keen eyes may even spot elusive mammals like wild boar. In the neighbouring Torcal de Antequera Natural Park, hikers trekking in the surreal limestone landscapes will almost certainly come across wild mountain goats. This UNESCO-listed park has colour-coded trails that twist among its dramatic rock formations.
"In none of the Spanish towns have I been so happy, so entirely at home, as here in Málaga." – Hans Christian Andersen, Danish author, 1862
If you’re looking to climb the highest peak in Málaga, the 2,066-metre La Maroma, around 60 kilometres by car east of Málaga, overlooks Sierra de Tejeda, Sierra de Almijara and Alhama Natural Park. You can approach the mountain via several routes, the easiest of which starts from Robledal near Alhama in Granada. The shortest and most challenging routes begin in Sedella, while the most picturesque – think stunning panoramic views – starts in Canillas de Aceituno and takes around 10 hours to complete.
You can enjoy more epic hiking on the trail through the fir forests to Pico Torrecilla, a 1,919-metre peak with incredible views of the mountains. The trail traverses these rare fir forests two hours to the west of Málaga, before opening up to reveal vast landscapes before culminating in a steep final pitch to the summit. This hike is particularly popular among the locals.
The climb to the ruins of an old refuge at the summit of Pico Lucero in the Sierra de Almijara is not for the faint-hearted. It’s a medium to difficult route approximately two hours by car from Málaga that requires a good baseline level of fitness. Having hiked for three or more hours, you’ll be faced with a steep final climb that can be challenging for those who are uncomfortable with heights, but the views from the top are well worth the effort.
For a more family-friendly hike, the Arabic Staircase trail in El Chorro is highly recommended, and it’s only around an hour from Málaga. It’s a moderately challenging 9-kilometre round trip and features an ancient staircase believed to have been built in the 15th century. Although its exact purpose is shrouded in mystery, theories suggest it was once part of a trading or smuggling route, which adds a layer of intrigue to this absorbing hike. The trail has mesmerising views of the valley and is a unique historical and cultural experience.
Good to know: If you're planning a spot of hiking in Málaga with your children, the ibis Malaga Centro Ciudad is a vibrant budget family hotel.
While many of Málaga’s hiking trails meander around the mountains, there are several routes that offer stunning coastal views, including Monte Calamorro. The route is easily accessible via the Cercanías Train to Benalmádena. From there, you can either hike up the mountain or, for those who are only here for the panoramas, take a cable car to the top. On a clear day, you can admire views of the Mediterranean, Málaga itself, Alhaurín de la Torre and even Gibraltar and North Africa. The relatively easy Mirador de Pocopan trail in the Montes de Málaga Natural Park is another excellent choice for those prioritising coastal views. This moderate 8.2-kilometre hike reveals the stunning Mediterranean coastline and is great for those who prefer shorter hikes.
Whether you’re looking for an easy family hike or a more challenging climb, there are hiking trails in Málaga for all ages and abilities. While El Caminito del Rey is no longer as dangerous, it still requires a good level of fitness and caution, especially for those with vertigo. The trail is well-marked and equipped with safety measures but you should always be mindful of your surroundings. Hikes like Pico Lucero and Pico Torrecilla are also reasonably tough and require a general level of fitness. These trails are quite steep in places and may prove challenging to hikers with less experience.
Regardless of the trail, it’s important for all hikers to follow basic trail etiquette: respect the natural environment, stay on marked paths and avoid littering. If you’re planning on camping in Málaga, there are plenty of pitches in the area’s national parks. Remember to bring plenty of water, sun protection, snacks, appropriate clothing and footwear, a fully charged mobile phone and possibly a charged power bank, especially if you’re heading out on a longer hike. It’s also advisable to download any trails and maps you might need before you leave. And don’t forget to let friends and family know your plans, especially what time you expect to return from your hike.
This corner of southern Europe enjoys mild winters and hot summers, so the best time for hiking in Málaga is in the spring and autumn, particularly from March to May or September to November. With milder temperatures, these hikes into the wilderness are generally more comfortable, while the landscapes are lusher. There are also fewer crowds and accommodation is more affordable. It can be uncomfortably hot during the summer, especially in the afternoons, so take extra precautions if you're planning to travel between June and August.
"The best time for hiking in Málaga, Spain, is in the spring and autumn, particularly from March to May or September to November."
If you want an immersive experience but would rather tackle the terrain with a guide, there are plenty of guided hiking and walking tours in Málaga. Caminito del Rey Tours provide excellent insights into the trail’s history, as well as its flora and fauna. Local guides can be hired for the other trails, providing valuable information about the region and its culture, as well as the natural environment. With experienced guides helping you navigate the trails, these tours are especially enjoyable for first-time hikers.
Good to know: Looking to base yourself in a peaceful location at a great-value hotel within an hour of the El Caminito del Rey trail? Those with an adventurous spirit will be well catered for at the ibis budget Málaga Centro. For longer stays only 10 minutes from the city centre, why not try the Novotel Suites Malaga Centro, a pet-friendly hotel within easy reach of the markets and beach?
You’ll need a car to reach many of Málaga’s trails but there are several options for those who don’t have a vehicle. Buses and taxis can transport you to El Caminito del Rey and Monte Calamorro, or you can take the Cercanías Train to Benalmádena. There are buses to the trails in the Montes de Málaga Natural Park. There are also several local trails that can be accessed without a car, including the routes in the Montes de Malaga Natural Park. Indeed, some of the best trekking in Málaga can be found on the trails behind Pedregalejo, which can be reached via a local bus or taxi.
Hiking in Málaga can be a rewarding and enlightening experience. Expert hikers will enjoy challenging mountain climbs while novices who aren’t as fit or familiar with the landscape will love joining a guided tour. From the adrenaline-pumping El Caminito del Rey to the peaceful ascents of La Maroma and Pico Torrecilla, the trails combine Málaga’s natural beauty with its historical and cultural significance. Why not pack your hiking boots, grab your water bottle and embark on an unforgettable adventure in one of Spain’s most beautiful regions?
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