AMAZING ANDALUSIA ADVENTURE, SPAIN
Unspoiled beaches, whitewashed villages, aqua blue waterfalls, mountains, gorges, hidden Mediterranean coves, tapas. Yes we are talking about Andalusia in southern Spain.
The landscape is breath-taking and one of the best ways to appreciate its diversity and beauty is on foot. The hiking trails are perfect in spring. The landscape is filled with beautiful wild flowers and the sweltering heat of the summer hasn’t arrived yet.
DAY 1: HOLA ESPAÑA!
Suggested Transavia flight: Amsterdam (Schiphol) → Malaga 9.40 – 12.40
Today we arrive at the airport of Malaga, from where we have a singled timed transfer to our guesthouse in Nerja where we will stay the coming days.
Nerja was once a sleepy fishing village and now it is often referred to as the Jewel of the Costa del Sol. Full of typical Spanish houses, narrow streets, authentic restaurants and surrounded by mountains and sandy beaches Nerja certainly has its charm. One of the best views in Nerja is from the “Balcón de Europa”. It is a large round balcony on a cliff in the seaside (23m above the sea) overlooking the sea, the Sierra Almijara mountain range and the coast with its beautiful beaches, sandy coves and rocky outcrops.
Meals: No meals included today
DAY 2: HIKE MARO CLIFFS NATURAL PARK
After a delicious breakfast we head out to the stunning Maro Natural Park – Cerro Gordo. This beautiful Natural Park combines sheer cliffs, wild beaches and tiny coves, some of which are almost untouched. We will hike through tropical crops, pine trees, cross an arab vigil tower and have a break on one of the hidden beaches (take your swim wear). The Natural Park is of great ecological value because of the presence of protected plant species which are scarce in Andalusia. Because of its importance the United Nations declared this site to be a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (SPAMI).
Meals: breakfast, picnic lunch
DAY 3: KAYAK/ MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURE
Our trip wouldn’t be complete if we wouldn’t explore the coastline with its crystal clear waters and gorgeous rock formations from the water. Surrounded by high cliffs and mountains we’ll paddle to coves, sea caves, waterfalls and hidden beaches that are only accessible by boat. The cliffs are a stunning sight, they rise sharply out of the water and are covered in interesting marine plant life. In case the sun gets to be too much, just hop into the clear blue water for a refreshing dip. 😉
YOU NEED TO BE ABLE TO SWIM FOR THIS KAYAK ADVENTURE
If you rather explore the breathtaking scenery on a mountain bike, that is possible too. Our local guide will take you on a beautiful half day tour.
Meals: breakfast
DAY 4: MOUNTAIN TOP HIKE
Make sure to have a good night’s rest. This beautiful hike is a challenge. It takes us up to the mountain ridge from where we have spectacular views of the the Sierra Almijara and the villages Nerja and Frigiliana. The hike is mostly cross country with some forest road walking near the end.
Meals: breakfast, picnic lunch
DAY 5: RIVER HIKE
This walk will definitely be wet! Today’s walk will take us straight into a river and the water will be up to our ankles. On our river journey we will walk through a marble gorge, bathe in natural pools and encounter a great waterfall. The plants and flowers along the riverside create a wonderful scenery.
We’ll start our walk in Frigiliana, an exceptionally beautiful white-washed village close to Nerja. As you wander through the maze of cobbled streets, past the whitewashed houses, you can fully understand why Frigiliana has been named the most beautiful village in southern Spain several times.
Important: for today’s hike you need an extra pair of (water)shoes that can get wet and dirty. We will walk through the water. The water flow changes according to the season.
Meals: breakfast, picnic lunch
DAY 6: ADIOS ANDALUCIA
After an early breakfast it’s time to bid farewell to this enchanting place and take our transfer back to Malaga airport.
Suggested flight: Malaga → Amsterdam (Schiphol) 12.55 – 16.00
Meals: breakfast
ESSENTIAL INFO
THE HIKES
Our hikes will be between 15-20 km long, some a bit longer, some a bit shorter. A walking day is normally five to seven hours and daily ascents will likely be around 500m to 800m. Suitable hiking footwear is essential due to the rough, uneven and rocky terrain. No prior hiking experience is necessary, but good health and reasonable fitness are important. The climbs are moderately demanding with some long days of sustained walking with a backpack. Therefore, you will enjoy the trip all the more if you are in good physical shape.
Please be aware that the itinerary and activities are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to weather conditions or other circumstances beyond our control.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
It is essential that everyone has adequate travel insurance. It is also recommend to apply for the European Health Insurance Card which is available free of charge for the citizens of EU/EEA and of Switzerland. The holders of the card are entitled to medical care while staying temporarily in another EU/EEA country or in Switzerland (with same regulations and co-payments like the residents of the country). Having this card helps a lot in the case of accident because without the card you need to pay all the costs on the spot.
More information about the card can be found here: http://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=509&langId=en
CLOTHING
Be prepared for all weather conditions and make sure you bring layers of clothing. The outer garment should be wind and waterproof.
ACCOMMODATION
Our lovely hotel is located in a small, quiet plaza of the coastal town Nerja. It is only a short walk to the beach, restaurants, and bars. The hotel has a roof pool, ideal for those looking to catch some rays.
All the rooms are twin rooms with private bathroom and a terrace.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
INCLUDED:
5 nights accommodation in twin rooms with private bathroom and terrace
5 delicious breakfasts (buffet)
3 picnic/ packed lunches
3 guided hikes by a certified English speaking guide
Half day of kayaking
Airport pick up and drop off Malaga Airport (one hour by taxi/ mini van)
Transportation to the Maro hike
Bus ticket to Frigiliana
Tourist tax
Booking costs
NOT INCLUDED:
Flights
Drinks
Meals that are not already included
Travel insurance
