Active Andalusia
In 10 days on this active vacation, you’ll touch the old-world majesty of the interior in Spain’s most southern region, Andalusia.
This 10-day itinerary by car will take you deep into the magnificence of Spain´s naturous south, proudly exposing the interior heart of this province. Landscapes diverge from the cliffs of the coast, to the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada, to the depths of the valleys in the plains of the interior.
Are you prepared for a real adventure?
Highlights
Hike through 200 million year old rock formations and one of the most impressive karst landscapes of Europe, and count the mountain goats jumping from rock to rock
Walk through the Caminito del Rey valley, a 100 meter path above the river as vultures circle hundreds of meters above youKayak under Mediterranean sun, along the cliffs and behind the waterfalls of Maro
Mountain bike through the Sierra Nevada near the Iberian Peninsula´s highest mountain, the Mulhacén
Drive through the peculiarly dynamic landscapes of lush green hills, valleys, canyons and karsts. The National Park nobly exhibits picturesque white villages scattered throughout.
Day 1 | Arrival to Malaga | Ronda
On the day of arrival, venture straight to Ronda, a pleasant drive riding alongside the National Park “Sierra de la Nieves”. A spanning bridge over El Tajo, the giant canyon, connects the two sides of the town.
Ronda is a picturesque historic town that urges exploration. The Arab area of the town is one of the best conserved in Spain, the Arabic bathhouse is a superb idea to visit.
Day 2 | Ronda – Valle de Abdalajís
The journey through this region awards a visitor with the noticeably wonderful charm the Moors’ left behind some time ago. The many “Pueblos Blancos”, the white villages, are very dear to Andalusia and you’ll encounter them spread throughout this region. They are architecturally influenced by North Africa, the Moors’ native land and are a sight to see.
Today we begin with the first of these. Ronda and the characteristic white village of Valle de Abdalajís are a mere 70 kilometers apart. The drive is littered with towns and villages, beautiful landscapes and lakes, castles, and Arab ruins.
Deviate about 30 minutes off the main path to the Natural Park of Sierra de Grazalema. Here you’ll have the pleasure of meeting its collection of famous white mountain towns of Grazalema and Montejaque.
You’ll appreciate a quick look into the village of Setenil de Bodegas, known for its houses unbelievably carved into and tucked under the mountain rocks.
Day 3 | Valle de Abdalajís - Walk the Caminito del Rey
Wake up to the sound of birds chirping and cowbells chiming in the distance as your accommodation is pleasantly located in nature. After a typical breakfast with fresh fruits and homemade “Pan con Tomate”, a standard Spanish delight made from grated tomato and olive oil from the village.
Heading out, you’ll see the clear blue lakes of Ardales and widespread olive groves over this vast landscape. Tip: roll down the window here for a wonderful scent of Spanish olives in the air.
The real journey begins upon reaching the stunning walkway of the Caminito del Rey – The King’s Walk. This thrilling walk leads you through the towers over the valley of El Chorro, 7 kilometers long and on average 100 meters high. We assure you this walk will be one of the highlights of this trip. Replenish with lunch, either in the town square in Ardales or in Álora, a terrace under the Andalusian sun rays awaits you.
Day 4 | Valle de Abdalajís - Frigiliana
The National Park El Torcal anticipates your visit this morning, on your way to Frigiliana. El Torcal contains one of the most impressive karst landscapes of Europe. Here you’ll avoid the crowds as one of our expert guides takes you off the beaten path to view these geographical wonders. Afterward, visit the neighboring town of Antequera. Europe’s largest dolomites are here in Antequera, and oddly enough, so is the highest density of churches of any Spanish city. Moving along, this route provides a hefty amount of options to explore as you continue on your way to Frigiliana.
Day 5 - Frigiliana - A day on the Mediterranean coast
Voted as one of Andalusia´s most picturesque villages, Frigiliana’s Moorish old quarter is heart-warmingly adorned with mosaic narrow streets, stoned large steps, brilliantly blue doors, ceramics and hanging plants. This morning you’ll appreciate a walk around before heading down to the sea.
Paradise Exists, and it may just be here at the Mediterranean.
Destination: Burriana beach in the town of Nerja. The Mediterranean beaches are crowd favourites for countless reasons. See for yourself as you stroll the boardwalk and choose (or try to) which to do from the plenty of activities at hand. Here is the place to try “Espeto”, fresh barbecued sardines on a stick – the local delight which is found at any of the “chiringuitos” and restaurants on the beach.
Kayak alongside the cliffs of the National Park “Acantilados de Maro”. Note the warm, glass-clear waters. Explore the various caves, rock features and waterfalls. Keep an eye out for fish enjoying the waters with you.
Take the “not so average” walk from Nerja to Frigiliana. It ascends the River Chillar, passing stalactites and stalagmites and walking through water up to knee height at times. You’ll then reach two serene, natural pools fed by waterfalls where you’ll be happy to stop and cool off.
Stretching for almost 5 kilometres along the border of the National Park, the caverns are one of Spain’s major tourist attractions. Perhaps you’ll catch one of the Concerts, they’re regularly held in one of the chambers as they form natural amphitheatres.
If you take a day of relaxation on the beach or a stroll around the town, we won’t judge at all. After all, you are now on the beloved Mediterranean.
Day 6 - Frigiliana - Road trip excursion to the white villages
Today has ample places to visit! Pursue a winding route in order to salute to some of the region’s most picturesque villages; may we present, Sayalonga, Cómpeta, and Vélez Málaga.
For the hikers out there, several surrounding villages offer splendid hikes that are all the rage! You’ll see why when you climb the highest mountain in the Málagan province, named “Maroma”, at a little over 2000 meters high.
Walk along the boulevards of lesser-known coastal villages and enjoy their fresh beverages and culinary treats on the terraces and decorated center squares.
Day 7 - Frigiliana – Capileira - Monachil
Today you drive from Frigiliana to Monachil with a stop in Capileira. Capileira is one of the most authentic white villages and belongs to the Alpujarras region of the Sierra Nevada; it’s a place of amazing scenery and breathtaking viewpoints. Make your way through the villages of Bubión and Pampaneira to enhance your feel for this region. Feeling culturally enriched, you’ll transfer back to Capileira and head off to the other side of the Sierra Nevada, your final destination today, Monachil.
Day 8 - Monachil - A visit to the UNESCO historic city of Granada
You will wake up this morning in the sleepy town of Monachil at the foot of the Sierra Nevada leaving only a 20-minute drive to the gorgeous city of Granada.
Granada is another exceptionally beautiful city whose status as the last Moorish kingdom is deeply woven into the fabric of the city. Today, we recommend exploring the city on foot to best appreciate its dramatic setting in the foothills of Sierra Nevada. Enjoy its gastronomy scene, whose large tapas portions have earned it a place in the hearts of food lovers.
Be sure to leave at least four hours free today to explore the jewel in Granada’s crown the Alhambra – whose sprawling complex and unabashed grandeur truly justifies its worldwide reputation. Its Renaissance residential palaces, opulent frescoes, decorated columns, and open courtyards are a lasting monument to the pivotal part the city played in Iberian history, while its gardens are an oasis of calm and serenity.
In the afternoon, we suggest venturing into the Albaicín neighborhood, the old Arab Quarter which has retained a strong sense of identity and wonderfully imperial energy. End the day with a visit to the Sacromonte neighborhood, the thriving folkloric gypsy quarter which lures visitors to its hillside location for flamenco music and dancing after dark. *Please note that it is essential to buy tickets to the Alhambra in advance.
Day 9 - Monachil - A visit to the Sierra Nevada
Welcome to Monachil! There are several alluring options the Sierra Nevada will excite you with today. One respectable option is to spend more time in Granada to check off the points which you couldn’t the day before.
Visit additional villages in the Sierra Nevada, and the village of Purullana, whose enormous dwellings, known as cave homes, are entirely built into the rock. Its handicraft, ceramic traditions. are a special source of pride. The identifiable cobalt blue pattern is created with a technique dating back to the 16th century; pick one up in one of the cave shops.
The Cuesta de Negro, one of the most important archaeological sites in the province lies here, waiting for you since 1800 BC.
Would you prefer to spend your final day as one with nature? Well, this is your opportunity
to dig deeper into Sierra Nevada. Complete a 6-kilometer walk through one of its gravity-defying canyons, or make a full-day excursion at your preferred activity and strength level.
Day 10 - Malaga - Home?
You have the option to fly back home directly from Málaga or to take a train to Madrid to catch your outbound flight.
Should you wish to extend the trip further and experience more of Spain’s gems, or adjust the itinerary we would be delighted to tailor this to your wishes.
Price
Total price is from € 895,- / $ 1075,- per person
Including:
- 9 Nights in two or three-star hotels including breakfast. Please note that there is the option to upgrade to four or five-star hotels for just € 405,- per person for all 9 nights.
- 10 days car hire including all-risk insurance.
- Guided tour and entrance to walk the Caminito del Rey.
- Private guided tour through the National Park El Torcal.
- Access to insider tips about what to see and where to eat. Let us know if you have any special diets like vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, or any other and we will give you free advice.
- 24/7 helpline for the duration of your trip.
Excluding:
- Air tickets. Please note that we can arrange these should you wish.
- Travel insurance. Please note that we can arrange these should you wish.
- All other food and drinks not mentioned in the above description.
- City tourism taxes.
- Personal expenses such as extra hotel services or gratuities.
