Exploring the Natural Paradise of Nerja

From the majesty of the Sierra Almijara to the vertiginous cliffs of Maro, our network of trails offers you a unique experience on the Costa del Sol. Feel the challenge of conquering Pico del Cielo, where the clouds mingle with the blue of the horizon, or let yourself be carried away by the whisper of water in the spectacular riverbed of the Río Chillar. Whether you're looking for the adrenaline rush of the peaks or the peace of a walk along unspoilt coves, here you'll find the perfect trail.

The route to Cuesta del Cielo (1,505 m) combines an initial section accessible by vehicle to Los Cortijos de la Civila with a demanding two-hour climb on foot through the Viñas de Maro area and the mountains. The route is notable for its panoramic views of the coast of Nerja and La Herradura, ending with a cross-country stretch to the mirror cross that crowns the pyramidal summit.

Fuente del Esparto in Nerja is a strategic hiking spot 6 km from the N-340, accessible by taking the turn-off towards Cueva de Nerja and going up the Barranco de la Coladilla lane. The route is notable for its passage through the El Pinarillo recreational area, the historical mining heritage of the area and the traditional use of the esparto plant.

This route begins on the N-340 (km 298) and runs through an exceptionally green and cool valley that combines traditional and subtropical crops with historic white farmhouses of Roman origin. The route climbs up a 9 km track that allows you to explore the riverbed, rich in waterfalls and riverside vegetation, until you reach the Cortijos del Nacimiento. From there, you can climb to the top of Peñón de los Castillejos, a natural viewpoint with panoramic views of Granada and the coast, before finally returning to the national road via a track that descends through the Cantarriján area.

We recommend this route for its spectacular scenery. Approximately 1 km from the La Furia and El Uno mines, at the foot of a large pine tree, the clearly visible path branches off to our left. It zigzags up the crest of a hill and leads us to a pass on the north face of Almendrón.

From here, you can see the entire Chillar River valley with the Cortijo del Imán in the background, offering impressive panoramic views. We find ourselves at the foot of the Tajo del Almendrón, which we can climb from here and then return by the same route.

If we set off at dawn, we will be back before the afternoon.

This high mountain route climbs to Navachica, the highest peak in the Sierra Almijara at 1,832 metres, starting from Fuente del Esparto along an old mining track that runs through the Barranco de Cazadores between limestone gorges and caves. The itinerary begins along a track to the bottom of the ravine and continues on foot along a steep path that crosses vertical walls and areas of scree until it reaches the mines of El Uno and La Furia, where extreme caution must be exercised due to the presence of open pits. After passing several forks and natural rock steps, the path climbs steeply among holm oaks, passing through the caves of Los Caños del Rey to the Ranchillo del Viento pass, an exceptional viewpoint over the Pinar de Lomas Llanas and the Almendrón ridge.The final ascent is a gentle climb up the hill to the summit, completing a demanding 36-kilometre round trip that requires making the most of the daylight hours.

This is one of the many watchtowers that dot our coastline. From here, you can enjoy wonderful views as well as a pleasant walk through the surrounding area.

Access is clearly signposted and is located at kilometre 297 of the N-340, where you turn onto a dirt track with crops on the right and a pine forest on the left.

When you reach a widening, continue on foot along the path that climbs up to the tower. You can lose yourself in the aromas of thyme, rosemary, lavender and other aromatic Mediterranean plants.

This is Stage 4 of the Great Málaga Path, a coastal route between Torrox and Nerja:

Start: It starts at the Torrox Lighthouse, located on a Roman site, and crosses the river to Peñoncillo beach, where the Cuartos Catalanes wheel is located.

Highlights: The trail skirts cliffs and coves such as Mazagarrobo, passing by the Calaceite Tower and reaching its highest point at the Macaca Tower.

End: It descends towards Playazo beach in Nerja, characterised by its traditional orchards, and ends at the mouth of the Chíllar River next to the ruins of the Torrecilla Tower.

Start and Ascent: The route begins with a 5 km climb along a forest track towards the Sierras Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park, passing through the El Pinarillo Recreation Area.

Flora and Geology: The route features unique vegetation with endemic species (such as Andalusian boxwood and olive trees) and dolomitic sand terrain with high erosion, where a scientific measuring station is located.

The Chíllar River: After passing through Collado de los Apretaderos, the route descends to the Chíllar riverbed (the boundary between municipalities). The landscape is characterised by a deep V-shaped valley, the river channel and steep slopes.

Middle section: The trail continues through ravines (del Espejo and Ancho) and the Pinillo del Aire pass, where the remains of an old lime kiln can be seen.

Descent and End: After enjoying the panoramic views from Loma de las Garzas, you descend via Cuesta del Sordo towards the Higuerón river. The final section follows the riverbed, passes through Pozo de Batán and climbs up Cuesta Apero until it ends at Plaza del Ingenio in Frigiliana.