Over the Guadalhorce river, at an altitude of 100 metres, a footbridge stretches along the rocks – the Caminito del Rey trail, one of the biggest attractions near Malaga. If you love rocky landscapes and heights don’t fill you with fear, this is the dream trip for you!
How was the Caminito del Rey created?
The history of the route dates back to the early 20th century, when a company, involved in the extraction of energy from a hydroelectric power station, decided to create a path for its employees from El Chorro. The footbridges took four years to build. Interestingly, it was possible to walk this path during the day and at night, as lighting was taken care of!
King Alfonso XIII himself attended the opening – hence the royal name of the trail (Caminito del Rey, or Royal Path). Deteriorating over the years, the footbridge attracted daredevils and adventurers. However, it was very dangerous. It was closed for a while, only to be opened to the public in 2015 after renovations.
Footbridge over the precipice
The tour starts near the Conde de Guadalhorce dam. The trail can be accessed from the village of Ardales or from Álora. The footbridge is “one-way”, from north to south. The trail is 8 km long and is divided into four sections.
The canyon down which the Guadalhorce River flows is sometimes only 10 metres wide and … 700 metres deep. That’s quite a lot! (For comparison: the deepest part of the Grand Canyon of the Colorado River is 1857 metres). Beautiful views and an unforgettable experience guaranteed!
Route
The information point is near the El Kiosko restaurant and the bus stop. There is also a campsite and car park in the area (important: it is not possible to drive to the very entrance of the gorge, check access information here. It is worth walking up to the Luis Morales viewpoint, from where you can admire the Conde de Guadalhorce basin.
To enter the Caminito del Rey it is important to buy tickets in advance (preferably before the season), as tickets are limited and in great demand! For more relevant information on purchasing tickets, follow this link.
The first part of the route is the narrow gorge El Desfiladero de Gaitanejo (it is only 10 m wide). The second part is el Tajo de las Palomas, where you cross the Royal Bridge. The third part of the trail is called Valle de Hollo. This is a fertile river valley with lush vegetation. Many animal species also live here, there is even a bat reserve.
The last part of the Caminito del Rey is the Avenida Caminito del Rey, along which you can see the hydroelectric power station, the old railway station, the viaduct and the railway tunnels.
Get ready for a trip
Remember to bring water, snacks, sun cream and comfortable shoes. There are no restaurants or toilets along the route. Children can be taken on the hike if they are at least 8 years old. The trail is not accessible for people with mobility impairments and wheelchair users (there are stairs, handrails and narrow passages). Dizziness or fear of heights are also contraindications.
Near Malaga and Marbella
The Caminito del Rey is one of Andalusia’s many extraordinary attractions. If you want to spend some active time and like to get in touch with nature, head to the Doñana or Cabo de Gata reserves. If you are staying in a flat in Marbella, for a hike we recommend climbing La Concha mountain. Water sports enthusiasts will also find attractions for themselves here.
The natural beauty, the diversity of the landscape, the excellent cuisine and the hospitality of the people, make many people settle permanently in Spain. If you are looking for a house in Spain, take a look here.
