Hiking routes near Nerja

Nerja, located on the Costa del Sol in Spain, offers several hiking routes with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, nearby mountains, and stunning landscapes. Here are a few popular hiking routes near Nerja:

1. Rio Chillar: The Rio Chillar hike is a unique experience where you follow the riverbed upstream. This trail offers refreshing river crossings, waterfalls, and narrow canyons. It’s advisable to wear appropriate footwear as you may get your feet wet. The trail starts from the town of Nerja and can be as long as 8-10 kilometers round trip, depending on how far you go.
2. El Cielo and Pico del Cielo: This route takes you to the highest point in the Sierra de Tejeda mountains, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The hike begins near Frigiliana, a nearby town, and ascends through pine forests and rocky terrain. The trail is moderately challenging and takes around 5-6 hours to complete.
3. La Maroma: For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, La Maroma is a popular option. It is the highest peak in the Axarquía region and stands at 2,066 meters. The trail starts near Canillas de Aceituno, a village not far from Nerja. The ascent is steep, but the reward is the breathtaking views from the summit. This hike is considered difficult and takes approximately 7-8 hours to complete.
4. El Saltillo: El Saltillo is a scenic hike that takes you through the Almijara Natural Park, offering stunning views of deep gorges and dramatic cliffs. The trail starts near the village of Competa, which is a short drive from Nerja. It’s a moderately challenging hike that takes around 4-5 hours, depending on your pace.
5. Sierra Almijara: This mountain range is located near Nerja and offers various hiking trails of different lengths and difficulties. You can explore the beautiful landscapes, spot wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of nature. The starting points for these hikes can be found in the nearby villages of Frigiliana, Competa, or Torrox.
6. Acantilados de Maro-Cerro Gordo: this route is beautiful, it goes along the coast between Nerja and La Herradura, you can find hidden beaches and end up a wonderful day with a paella workshop in La Herradura Coffee Farm

Before embarking on any hiking adventure, ensure that you are adequately prepared with proper hiking gear, sufficient water, and a map or GPS device. It’s also recommended to check weather conditions and let someone know about your plans.