Upgraded - Walking in Andalucia

Welcome to Malaga, the gateway to your Andalusian adventure. There are no activities planned today, so you're free to arrive in Malaga at any time. The Tour Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 7pm for a welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. Should you miss the meeting, your leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up. For those arriving early, you might like to take time to wander the historic streets, discover the Picasso Museum, or relax by the harbour. A transfer from Malaga Airport (AGP) to our hotel is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your arrival day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 14 days prior to departure.

Today we journey to one of Andalusia's most spectacular destinations with a scenic one hour and 15 minute drive to the clifftop town of Ronda. Upon arrival, we trek through the legendary Tajo Gorge. This magnificent route takes us deep into the 120-metre-deep limestone canyon that divides the old and new towns, offering remarkable perspectives of the sheer cliff faces and the historic bridges that span this natural wonder. With an elevation change of 300 metres/ 900 feet the walk provides a mix of descent into the gorge and ascent back to street level, revealing hidden viewpoints and secret corners of this unique geological formation. We'll then have time to explore Ronda's old town, widely considered one of Andalusia's most captivating historic centres. Wander through the atmospheric streets of La Ciudad and soak in the ambiance of this mountaintop settlement that has inspired writers and artists for centuries. Later this afternoon, we continue our journey by bus to Antequera, where we'll check into the elegant Hotel Parador de Antequera for a three-night stay, perfectly positioned for exploring this historic crossroads town and the surrounding natural treasures. During our stays at the Paradores we will be mainly taking dinners in their acclaimed restaurants. Please see the food section for further details. Our 8-kilometre/ 5-mile walk is expected to take three hours, with an elevation gain and loss of around 300 metres/980 feet.

This morning we take a drive up to the remarkable Torcal de Antequera, where we'll explore one of Spain's most extraordinary natural landscapes. Our walking route winds through a maze of limestone formations, sculpted by millions of years of erosion into fantastical shapes, from towering stone pillars to intricate rock arches that create a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere. We will also pick a good spot for a lovely picnic lunch. We then drive on to Antequera to visit the fascinating Dolmens. This UNESCO World Heritage site features remarkably well-preserved Neolithic burial chambers, including the impressive Dolmen de Menga, which dates back over 5,000 years and represents some of Europe's most significant megalithic monuments. Our day ends in the historic town of Antequera where there's time to explore the impressive Alcazaba fortress. These medieval castle remains, perched dramatically above the town, offer panoramic views across the Andalusian countryside and provide insight into the region's Moorish heritage. Tonight is our chance to try out one of the many local restaurants in the city. Today's 6-kilometre/ 4-mile walk is expected to take two and a half hours, with a total ascent and descent of 300 metres/980 feet.

Today we embark on one of Spain's most exhilarating walking experiences with a 50-minute transfer to Ardales for the legendary Caminito del Rey. El Caminito del Rey (The King's Little Path) is a walkway pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge in El Chorro offering a thrilling journey through some of Andalusia's most dramatic scenery. The cliff-side path hangs 100 metres above the waters of the river Guadalhorce reservoir, winding through dramatic cliffs, canyons, and expansive valleys. The route crosses the spectacular landscapes of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a magnificent gorge carved by the river Guadalhorce with towering walls that rise 700 metres/2,297 feet high. Following our mountain traverse, we transfer back to Antequera (one hour) where the day concludes with a delightful wine tasting experience at Bodega Gross Hermanos, set in a stunning natural mountain setting near the town. This family winery, established in 2007, combines tradition, innovation and modernity, with certified organic vineyards treated sustainably on deep and steep mountains. You'll sample wines produced from grapes grown on these vertiginous slopes, while learning about the ancient winemaking traditions that have made Malaga wines famous throughout history, all while surrounded by the Andalusian mountain landscape. The Caminito hike will be 8 kilometres/5 miles and take approximately three hours, with an ascent of 100 metres/300 feet and a descent of 250 metres/700 feet.

We travel to the Sierra Subbetica region and walk along the Bailon River to the picturesque white village of Zuheros. With its whitewashed houses and sweeping views, the village offers a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life. We then continue to Jaen, where we check into the Parador de Jaen, our home for the next three nights. The hilltop location affords us excellent views of the surrounding landscape. Today's 14-kilometre/ 8.7-mile walk is expected to take four hours and 30 mins with a total ascent of 120 metres/510 feet and descent of 400 metres/1,340 feet.

Our final walk of the week offers a fitting culmination to our Andalusian adventure: a circular hike directly from our hilltop retreat. This route takes us through a varied terrain of rocky paths and gentle inclines, leading us to the Cerro Tambor viewpoint, perched at 1,125 metres/ 3700 feet. From this elevated vantage point the views over the rolling hills cloaked in olive groves are not to be missed. As we traverse the area, we encounter hidden corners and secluded valleys, each offering its own perspective on this captivating region. Today's 10-kilometre/6-mile walk is expected to take three hours, with a total cumulative ascent and descent of 370 metres/1,200 feet.

Today is yours to explore Jaen at your own pace. Discover the city's rich history, visit the Jaen Cathedral, or wander through the charming old town. For those seeking more adventure, optional activities include a hike in the Sierra Magina Natural Park where there are a number of trails of differing duration and difficulty. Alternatively, you could take a day trip to Granada. Your tour leader can provide recommendations and assistance with arrangements.

Our trip ends in the morning after breakfast. There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart from Malaga at any time. A transfer to Malaga Airport (AGP) from the Parador de Jaen is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your departure day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 14 days prior to your tour departing.