5 thrilling hiking trails in Málaga, Spain

From dizzying walkways to epic ascents, these hiking trails in Málaga are a superb way to tread beyond the touristy coastal resorts

For many, Málaga is simply a gateway to the crowded seaside resorts of the Costa del Sol. Relatively few will venture far from the beach. If they do, chances are they’ll head into the city which, after decades of being ignored by the masses, has undergone something of a reinvention. 

However, look beyond sandy beach and city streets, towards the wider Málaga Province, and you will discover a landscape of plunging gorges, peaceful fir forests and rolling rocky mountains ripe for hiking.

Thrilling hiking trails in Málaga

Here are five thrilling hiking trails in Málaga, all within two hours of the city, offering alternative views of Spain’s tourist hotspot.

1. El Caminito del Rey

Distance: 8km
Duration: 2-3 hours

El Caminito del Rey (the King’s Little Pathway), is not the daredevil hike it once was, but it still gets the adrenalin pumping. Once considered one of the world’s most dangerous hikes, it is now a popular tourist attraction. The vertiginous walkway fell into disrepair and was officially closed for over a decade. After extensive restoration, it reopened in 2015. 

Despite the modifications, the hike has retained its USP as hikers are still required to work their way along the exposed walkways hanging over 100m up on a sheer cliff face. The views, naturally, are awesome. Hikers for El Caminito del Rey must buy tickets well in advance.

2. Torcal de Antequera (Yellow Route)

Distance: 2.7km
Duration: 1-2 hours

The UNESCO-listed Torcal de Antequera is one of Malaga’s most popular hiking destinations. The natural park is home to several colour-coded trails that twist and turn through its bizarre limestone landscape. The Yellow Route is widely considered the most impressive trail in the park thanks to its surreal scenery and almost guaranteed encounters with wild mountain goats.

The trail begins at the impressive visitor centre, perched at 1,200m amidst some of the park’s most dramatic rock formations. It’s worth a visit before you begin the hike to get your bearings and learn about how the rocks were formed. There is an information desk, a small exhibition room, a shop, a restaurant and a sensational…