Best of Andalucia
- Explore the highlights of Andalucia on foot, from beautiful Ronda to exotic Granada
- Discover the sparkling white villages (Pueblos Blancos) of the Sierra de Grazalema
- Walk to Trevelez, the highest village in Spain, at the foot of the mighty Mulhacen
- Follow ancient trails in Las Alpujarras, which cling to the slopes of the Sierra Nevada
- Enjoy a plate of tapas and glass of ‘vino’ in plazas shaded by scented orange trees
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in RondaArrive in the intriguing town of Ronda, sitting on the edge of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park and 2.5hrs by bus from Malaga Airport. Although very popular, Ronda retains much of its historic charm. The 200m chasm of the El Tajo gorge divides the town in two and the 18th century Puente Nuevo, 'new' bridge, offers some of the best views. The historical Moorish quarter is especially interesting, although you are sure to discover many more delights as you wander the streets.
An elegant and cosy stately house palace filled with history from where you can admire privileged views of the city of Ronda, accessible only to a select few. The ideal atmosphere to relax and enjoy yourself - the rooms are charming and fully functional for a truly wonderful stay in the centre of Ronda.
This is a boutique hotel found in a renovated eighteenth century building a few metres from Ronda’s ‘must see’ monuments.
The hotel has 23 rooms, the library, an Andalusian patio, and a private screening room.
A great option for today is to enjoy a walk down into the impressive Tajo Gorge for a different perspective of the Puente Nuevo bridge and the town above. Of course, an equally tempting option may be to enjoy the day at leisure, exploring more of the beautiful city of Ronda. Other highlights include the famous Plaza de Toros bullring and the Banos Arabes Arab Baths, the best preserved in Ronda.
An early evening transfer will bring you from Ronda to the white village of Zahara de la Sierra. Perched on a craggy outcrop overlooking the shimmering turquoise waters of the Embalse de Zahara reservoir, this is one of the prettiest “pueblos blancos” in the Sierra de Grazalema.
A family run rural boutique hotel and restaurant overlooking an azure lake below the picturesque pueblo of Zahara de la Sierra. Together with their friendly local staff, all from the village, they run Al lago as a relaxed "home away from home". All rooms have en suite modern bathrooms, rain showers, handmade soaps, shampoo/gel & hairdryers. Each room has a balcony overlooking the lake, satellite TV, heating/AC. Guests can also make use the private roof terrace.
On a quaint street lined with restaurants in the historic center, this cozy inn occupies a historic building with a traditional interior courtyard. It's a minute's walk from the Torre del Reloj, a famous tower, a 5-minute walk from medieval Castillo de Zahara de la Sierra and 1 km from the A-2300 regional route. Set around the courtyard, the unfussy rooms have antique furnishings, and offer flat-screens and free Wi-Fi. A relaxed restaurant with vaulted ceilings and a rustic vibe serves regional cuisine. There's also a cafe/bar, and a guest lounge with a wood-burning stove.
Surrounded by a sea of olive groves, the first section of your walk today traverses the tamed countryside around Zahara de la Sierra and passes isolated farmhouses.
After a few kilometres, the path leaves the olive groves behind and enters a small and wild valley. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, enjoy the pleasant shade of the native woodland, and smell the colourful flowers which bloom here. Views stretch south to Garganta Verde, whose literal translation, ‘Green Throat’, refers poetically to the gaping canyon.
Ascent/Descent: 500m
A family run rural boutique hotel and restaurant overlooking an azure lake below the picturesque pueblo of Zahara de la Sierra. Together with their friendly local staff, all from the village, they run Al lago as a relaxed "home away from home". All rooms have en suite modern bathrooms, rain showers, handmade soaps, shampoo/gel & hairdryers. Each room has a balcony overlooking the lake, satellite TV, heating/AC. Guests can also make use the private roof terrace.
On a quaint street lined with restaurants in the historic center, this cozy inn occupies a historic building with a traditional interior courtyard. It's a minute's walk from the Torre del Reloj, a famous tower, a 5-minute walk from medieval Castillo de Zahara de la Sierra and 1 km from the A-2300 regional route. Set around the courtyard, the unfussy rooms have antique furnishings, and offer flat-screens and free Wi-Fi. A relaxed restaurant with vaulted ceilings and a rustic vibe serves regional cuisine. There's also a cafe/bar, and a guest lounge with a wood-burning stove.
Leaving Zahara de la Sierra, walk towards the shores of Embalse de Zahara before continuing into the hills of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. Walk through groves of pine trees and ancient cobbled pathways to the lush Gaidovar valley where the mild temperatures have created a rare microclimate.
Drop down into the white village of Grazalema, in its spectacular location surrounded by jagged limestone mountains. Enjoy an evening stroll in one of the best preserved villages of the “pueblos blancos route” and admire the whitewashed houses covered in bright cascading geraniums.
Ascent/Descent: 692m/317m
Villa de Grazalema derives from an old building that has undergone several extensions and reforms. It combines the hotel establishment with rooms in a main building with gardens and swimming pool annexes.With magnificent views of the town of Grazalema, to the mountains and the valley of the Guadalete River… it really is as a picturesque place to stay - the hotel is ideal for resting, away from all urban noise and pollution. In its restaurant the "Olivar" you can taste its typical and traditional cuisine, while its beautiful surroundings lends itself to enjoy small walks on foot at dusk of this gaditano corner.
An impressive village house with pool at the edge of the village of Grazalema, one of Andalusia’s most charming white villages. In a quiet area of the friendly village, at only a two to three-minute walk to its restaurants and tapas bars, it offers the best of rustic living. Located in pure inland Andalucía, in the heart of the Grazalema Natural Park.
A short transfer takes you from Grazalema to Benaojan (25min) and your walk heads along an ancient cobbled path before passing through fields and small family farms to reach Ronda. Enjoy one more evening taking in the sights and sounds of this lovely town.
Ascent/Descent: 402m/236m
This wonderful boutique hotel offers a warm stay in the heart of Ronda. In there own words “An Oasis of Tranquility” – expect comfortable rooms, cozy sitting area’s with a bar and terrace to relax in. Traditional Spanish hospitality at its best.
An elegant and cosy stately house palace filled with history from where you can admire privileged views of the city of Ronda, accessible only to a select few. The ideal atmosphere to relax and enjoy yourself - the rooms are charming and fully functional for a truly wonderful stay in the centre of Ronda.
This is a boutique hotel found in a renovated eighteenth century building a few metres from Ronda’s ‘must see’ monuments.
The hotel has 23 rooms, the library, an Andalusian patio, and a private screening room.
Take the train from Ronda to Granada today (2.5hrs) at a time of your choosing (although we recommend an early one to give you plenty of time to see Granada). With its rich Moorish heritage—an intriguing mix of ancient alleyways and modern avenues—Granada is a fascinating city to explore.
Stroll around the city and soak up the distinctively Andalucian atmosphere before enjoying dinner in one of the many fantastic restaurants.
Gar Anat boutique hotel, is a palace of the seventeenth century, in the heart of Granada, 2 minutes from the Cathedral and City Hall, near bars and shops and 10 minutes from the Alhambra. Gar Anat is not just a hotel, it is a literary space populated by characters and stories, real and fictional, and wants to build on the experiences, concerns and emotions of its travelers. Its walls exude history and keep the secrets of the pilgrims who have walked their art among its walls. The 15 rooms are different and unexpected. The decoration and atmosphere along with the patio are in perfect harmony. The curtains, which are present as a curtain from the entrance hall to the access to the room itself, create a magical and mysterious atmosphere evoking a theater scene.On the ground floor, a fountain that gives rumor to the space and a central patio, the typical andalaza corrala, are opening mouth, next door, a secluded lounge with fireplace where every afternoon offers a small snack with homemade biscuits, teas and various infusions.
The old cistern of the XIII century becomes an incomparable setting to start the day with a buffet breakfast of homemade, ecological and typical products of the area.
The Hotel Palacio de Los Navas is a 16th century palace located in the heart of the historical center of Granada. The hotel offers 19 rooms, all exterior and distributed on four floors around a beautiful interior courtyard.
The Hotel Casa del Capitel Nazarí is an ancient Renaissance palace built in 1503 and located in the in the Albaicin, in front of the Alhambra in Granada and in the city centre, close to the cathedral. All rooms are equiped with TV with cable channels, mini bar, air-conditionate, hairdryer, and free WiFi access.
Today is yours to explore Granada at your own pace, but we highly recommend a visit to the Alhambra, a magnificent Moorish palace, adorned with mosaics and intricate carvings. Adjacent to the Alhambra is the General life, a series of beautiful gardens featuring some great examples of Arab art.
Please note that entrances are not included to the Alhambra or Generalife gardens and we highly recommend booking tickets in advance to ensure you are not disappointed.
Gar Anat boutique hotel, is a palace of the seventeenth century, in the heart of Granada, 2 minutes from the Cathedral and City Hall, near bars and shops and 10 minutes from the Alhambra. Gar Anat is not just a hotel, it is a literary space populated by characters and stories, real and fictional, and wants to build on the experiences, concerns and emotions of its travelers. Its walls exude history and keep the secrets of the pilgrims who have walked their art among its walls. The 15 rooms are different and unexpected. The decoration and atmosphere along with the patio are in perfect harmony. The curtains, which are present as a curtain from the entrance hall to the access to the room itself, create a magical and mysterious atmosphere evoking a theater scene.On the ground floor, a fountain that gives rumor to the space and a central patio, the typical andalaza corrala, are opening mouth, next door, a secluded lounge with fireplace where every afternoon offers a small snack with homemade biscuits, teas and various infusions.
The old cistern of the XIII century becomes an incomparable setting to start the day with a buffet breakfast of homemade, ecological and typical products of the area.
The Hotel Palacio de Los Navas is a 16th century palace located in the heart of the historical center of Granada. The hotel offers 19 rooms, all exterior and distributed on four floors around a beautiful interior courtyard.
The Hotel Casa del Capitel Nazarí is an ancient Renaissance palace built in 1503 and located in the in the Albaicin, in front of the Alhambra in Granada and in the city centre, close to the cathedral. All rooms are equiped with TV with cable channels, mini bar, air-conditionate, hairdryer, and free WiFi access.
A transfer will pick you up this morning and take you into the heart of the Alpujarra region, on the southern flank of the Sierra Nevada mountains. From the village of Capileira, walk along winding paths through ancient oak forests, pine plantations and terraced fields to the area known as Taha de Pitres, an ancient network of irrigation channels set up during Moorish times.
Finish in the tiny village of Ferreirola, deep in the heart of a beautiful green valley, and with no passing traffic. A truly idyllic spot to spend the next couple of nights!
Ascent/Descent: 492m/924m
The Bed & Breakfast "Sierra y Mar" is situated at the top of the village Ferreirola with a wonderful view over the flat roofs of the village and the surrounding mountains of the Alpujarra. Entering the house through the blue door is like walking into a small village as the house is actually several houses joined together by gardens and terraces. The rooms are furnished rusticly with Alpujarran bed clothes. They all have modern bathrooms and central heating. In the hotel there is a large living-room with a fireplace, a library and a kitchen for the use of the clients. WiFi available
Feel, savor, rest and have fun at the Mecina Fondales Hotel. A hotel that respects the architecture and the traditional atmosphere that corresponds to the Alpujarra enclave, becoming the best interpreter of this privileged enclave located in the region of La Alpujarra. The Hotel Mecina Fondales is located just 2 kilometers from the Truchero de Trévelez River, with clean and crystal clear perpetual waters.
Prepare for a steep climb today, but one filled with rewards, as you leave Ferreirola and ascend along the Trevelez river valley, stopping every so often to catch your breath and admire sweeping views of the snow-dusted Sierra Nevada.
Upon arrival in Trevelez, the highest village in Spain, sit back, relax, and take in the wonderful views. Perhaps you may like to sample some of the delicious dried ham, jamon serrano, Trevelez is known for, accompanied by a glass of wine, as you sit on the terrace of your charming mountain hotel.
Ascent/Descent: 1128m/595m
Hotel La fragua I was built in the 80’s in order to be the first mountain hotel in Trevélez. It was thought for mountain lovers, trekkers and, people who come to enjoy the nature. Hotel La Fragua I offers fourteen rooms. They have been decorated thinking on the mountain and alpine environment, and giving each of the rooms a rural style proper of the rural area it is placed. Built respecting the local tradition, Hotel La Fragua I sits perfectly with its natural setting.
Hotel La fragua II opened its doors in 2001 and was built and decorated thinking on the mountain and alpine environment giving each of the rooms a rural style proper of the rural area it is placed. Built respecting the local tradition, Hotel La Fragua II sits perfectly with its natural setting. You can also enjoy fabulous views over the mountains of Sierra Nevada. Our delightful rooms offer an ambience of warmth, sophistication and unique feeling, seeming to be in the purest nature.
The Pepe Álvarez Hotel Restaurant offers rooms equipped with a wide variety of services, as well as a restaurant, where you can taste a wide variety of dishes cooked to order. traditional way. All rooms are equipped with underfloor heating , television , full private bathroom , desk and Internet via Wifi .
Another spectacular day of walking from one charming mountain village to another. Set off through shady woodlands, following narrow footpaths to high elevations. Your efforts are rewarded with panoramic views over the mountains, and if the weather is clear, you can even see all the way to Africa!
Sitting at 1350m, Berchules is a lovely little village to spend the night, where you can wander the sleepy narrow streets and enjoy the views.
Ascent/Descent: 677m/838m
The hotel is run by a family team with extensive knowledge of Southern Spain and many years experience in catering. The perfect time to chill-out and be treated with special, personal attention. You will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere created by the friendliness of staff and guests. They serve traditional home-cooked meals and cater for all dietary requirements. Found on the outskirts of the village of Bérchules, at an altitude of 1320 m., the hotel is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and is the ideal location to explore the Alpujarras.
Check out after breakfast, and make your way back to Granada or Malaga Airport for onward travel.
This trip has a carbon score of 15kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our greenest trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 15kg is equivalent to 4.5 cheeseburgers. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information on how we've carbon counted our trips.
Other Information
Is it for me?A great option if you have more time and want to experience some of the real highlights of Andalucia. Follow trails through rugged mountainous terrain with daily walks between 10 and 20km with ascents of between 225m and 935m, on a mixture of unsurfaced tracks, footpaths and animal trails. Overnight stays are in small rural hotels in great locations in the heart of beautiful valleys and surrounded by mountains, and four nights will be in a stylish 3 or 4* hotels in the city of Granada and the town of Ronda.
Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way, Tour Du Mont Blanc and the Passau to Vienna Danube Cycle Path, to name but a few!
Multi Centre Walking | With a mix of loop and point-to-point walks stay 2 or 3 nights in one place which offers the chance to slow down and really explore a destination.
Solo Travellers
As a guide, we would suggest that the minimum age of traveller this holiday would be suitable for is: 12 Years
This walking tour is graded moderate overall, with days 6 and 7 being graded more moderate-strenuous due to the levels of ascent/descent involved. Walks are between 3-8 hours on a mixture of unsurfaced tracks, footpaths and animal trails with the occasional section on surfaced tracks or small tarmac roads. Some of the terrain is quite rocky and you may encounter some loose rocks or muddy/slippery sections in wet weather. Ascents are between 400m and 1130m with descents of up to 925m. During the shoulder months of June and September the walking may become more difficult due to the higher temperatures at that time of year and we recommend setting off early on those days.
6 Nights accommodation in small rural hotels in the Alpujarras, and 4 nights in 3 or 4* hotels in Granada and Ronda are included in your tour.
The accommodation we normally use is detailed below. We may sometimes have to use alternative hotels subject to availability but if this is the case we will always let you know when confirming your booking.
Single Rooms & Solo Walkers
Single rooms are available and a single supplement is payable. This trip is available to solo walkers but we recommend that you are an experienced walker who is comfortable with navigation, has walked in rougher, mountainous terrain before and is comfortable with steep ascents/descents and some steep drop-offs.
Meals
10 Breakfasts are included and usually consist of breads, fruits, cheeses and meats. Dinners are included on 4 nights—the nights in Zahara de la Sierra, Trevelez and Berchules. Lunches, (and dinners on the days not mentioned above) are not included but you will find suggestions in your route notes of local places to eat. A packed lunch is provided in Zahara de la Sierra. The food is a real highlight in Andalucia and you will feast on hearty local specialities such as the serrano gazpachos’ (gazpacho served with tasty chunks of Iberico ham), and the mouth-watering payoyo goats cheese in the Grazalema and Plato Alpujarreno (tasty dish made with sausage, potatoes and eggs), and Trucha con Jamon (trout with ham) in the Alpujarras.
The routes on this trip are generally way-marked but we will also provide detailed route notes and maps. You will also have access to the Macs Adventure Smartphone App enabling you to follow the route using your phone’s GPS so using this combined with the provided route notes and maps means you should have no problems finding your way. You can simply download the GPX tracks to your phone for offline use and off you go!
- 6 Nights in small rural hotels
- 4 Nights in a 3* or 4* hotels in Ronda and Granada
- 10 Breakfasts
- 2 Dinners and 2 Packed Lunches in Zahara de la Sierra
- Luggage transfers as per itinerary
- Transfer from Ronda to Zahara de la Sierra
- Detailed route notes, maps and pre-departure information pack
- GPX tracks and access to our smartphone app
- 24/7 Emergency telephone support
- Travel insurance (required)
- Travel to Ronda/from Berchules
- Lunches, dinners (other than those detailed), snacks and drinks
- Personal equipment
- Train from Ronda to Granada on Day 6
- Additional nights before, during or after the tour
You can start this tour on any day of the week subject to availability between March to May, and then again from September to the start of November. We do not offer this tour in the summer months as it is too hot for enjoyable walking then. It is worth noting that even in the shoulder months of May and September, this region can still be very hot. You should always check weather forecasts before starting out and make sure you head out straight after breakfast to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Andalucia is enjoyable most of the year round and each season has it’s own highlights. The spring months of March and April are fantastic if you want to see bird migrations in full swing and a profusion of flowers in bloom. The temperatures start to heat up in May and June and the slopes are filled with colourful butterflies and bee-eater birds. In the autumn months the days start to cool down, chestnuts fall from the trees and the colours turn to more shades of brown and golden.
By Air: Malaga Airport is the closest airport to Ronda, reachable by bus in approx.2h. Seville is also a good option, reachable by bus in approx. 2.5hrs.
By Train: Ronda is well connected by train to other Spanish cities including Granada (2h 30m) and Cordoba (1h 45min). Visit the Renfe website for more details.
By Air: We recommend flying out of Granada Airport which is again the closest and most convenient airport to Berchules. From Berchules, take the ALSA bus to Granada (3 times a day, 3hrs).
Malaga is another option but you would need to make your way via Granada by bus which takes a bit longer (approx. 5.5hrs).
Your bags will be transferred from your accommodation as per your itinerary and moved onto your next overnight stay. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 20kg per person.
The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, sunscreen. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.
Your detailed information pack will be sent to you after you book. This has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, waterproof clothes and a day pack.
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.
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