Caminito del Rey - Walk like a king

Arriving to airport of Málaga in Spain usually passengers have the opportunity to admire three lakes feeding imposing dam. Nearby mountains please both eyes of paragliding pilots as there are numerous possible landing fields. Mild climate even in winter time confirms a promise of adventurous stay.

However, the area northwest of Málaga keeps in secret even more treasures. Renfe, the spanish train operator, services the El Desfiladero de los Gaitanes -  nature reserve only 60km or 37 min from coast. A direct service from Malaga city center through Àlora arriving at El Chorro 10 am and collecting tired tourist later at 6 pm, supports not only local economy  ... it allows to experience a thrilling day out...

Runway points at Valle de Abdajalis situated at foot of Gaitanes

After morning cafe, with my basic spanish I understood that The rock climbing shop aka Aventur El Choro at the bus stop is THE competent place to visit before setting off towards the adventure. Andreas, a german expat, explains not only the access way but rents even safety harness for those less equipped.

for more read this blog in spanish

So just like visible on any Photo from this area, getting on the exposed pathway over the gorge, meanwhile officially closed due to deterioration, requires some climbing experience and at least dizzy-free spirit. Because of funnel shaped rock, all through the first part overlooking the abyss, blows constantly wind - perfect soaring conditions for vultures. However, even now, at the end of  November, three thin layers of functional wear was enough to keep me warm.

Unconquerable and imposant from distance

... easy to climb through

Along the way, several caves or man made holes might be explored - headlamp is highly recommended...
















After ...  gorge opens up to valley with river Guadalhorce deep down, on the opposite slope, reappears from the rock the railway. (Some adventurers use that levelled track for way back)

Aprox after 1.5 km walk on eastern slope, the second part of the Caminito del rey opens up. Similarly to the entrance, exit from this funny section was deliberately removed to free local authorities from responsibility for eventual casualties. Honestly, climbing those 6 m along the line where used to be a paved path, secured with a leading rope, gave the whole trip a taste of achievement.

Even though the route is relatively short, it advisable to take some food for more extensive experience - next refreshment is either all the way back or in 4 km through the forest trail along the upper sections river Guadalhorce till Mirador - viewpoint over all three water dams.

Preview of the whole route on Movescount.com