Trying down, it was an excellent 200 meters to the canyon flooring; above, a flock of vultures circled within the rising warmth of the day.
I noticed as one chicken gracefully descended into the slim valley, hovering simply 30 meters above the walkway and skimming the cliffside because it glided in the direction of me. It was the closest encounter I’ve ever had with a griffon vulture, and it was really spectacular, with its large two and a half meter wingspan and finger-like suggestions.
Because it handed overhead, its head swiveled backward and forward in quest of prey. This is only one particular second whereas mountain climbing Caminito Del Ray.
Associated learn: The Best Places to Visit in Andalucía
Toro Blanco’s Senior Information Paul wrote a unbelievable journey tip about mountain climbing Caminito Del Rey. This canyon can be featured on their guided biking tour in Andalusia all 12 months spherical.
Get a novel perception into this superb day journey!
The King’s Highway
The Caminito Del Rey, often known as the Kings Highway, is an 8km pathway via a canyon in Andalucia, Spain. Alongside a lot of the path, hikers traverse the cliff aspect on a walkway mounted midway between the valley flooring and the highest, taking roughly 2 hours to finish.
As a information for Toro Blanco Energetic Holidays, I led a gaggle on a week-long biking and strolling journey on this stunning area of Spain. Whereas I’m not an professional on El Caminito, we had been lucky to have a specialist information with us to share its historical past.
As we placed on our onerous hats close to the doorway, our information Isa joined us. “The unique path was constructed in 1901 to offer entry for staff on the El Chorro hydroelectric energy station right here in Andalucia,” Isa defined. “It was inaugurated in 1921 when King Alfonso XIII formally walked the path. The preliminary path was fabricated from concrete and steel poles drilled into the cliff, attracting adventurous hikers through the years. Nonetheless, because the concrete deteriorated and gaps appeared, the trail remodeled into extra of a climbing route and was ultimately closed in 2000,” she elaborated.
Following a serious reconstruction effort, the trail reopened in 2015. It has since turn out to be a must-visit for adventurous vacationers in Spain, making it a pure selection for Toro Blanco to incorporate on the biking holidays.
Associated learn: Tips for Active Holidays
With a safe walkway and handrails alongside the cliff, all you want now to benefit from the breathtaking views is a head for heights.
The preliminary a part of the trail winds via a large wooded valley, although the river stays far beneath. As you progress, the canyon partitions slim, and the actual journey begins as you meet your information.
The cliffs step by step draw nearer, and the walkway unfolds. The route is generally flat, with some undulating sections that flip into steps. After just a few extra kilometers, the canyon widens, revealing a wooded valley with the river flowing beneath.
Additional alongside, you’ll return to the walkway, the place the canyon partitions virtually meet at one level. Ultimately, a bridge leads you to the alternative wall and extra boardwalk.
All through the stroll, remnants of the previous route might be seen beneath, with crumbling concrete and precarious bridges.
The views alongside the complete path are breathtaking as you navigate the cliffside, passing by a home that was inhabited till just some a long time in the past in a distant location.
Upon finishing the stroll, particularly on a scorching day, there are many spots to seize a beer or your favourite Spanish drink, together with cafes and bars for meals.
A bus is accessible for the return journey to the start line, however with Toro Blanco, you’ll be met by automobile and brought again to your lodge.
Toro Blanco
Energetic Holidays in Spain
You’ll kick off your journey from the coastal space close to Malaga, meandering via the orange groves and up the hills adorned with sun-drenched olive bushes.
As you go via the charming historic cities and villages, every boasting its personal breathtaking view, you’ll recognize the enjoyment of discovering these hidden gems, a few of which can be unfamiliar to you.
Andalucía is often referred to as the fruit basket of Europe amongst Spaniards, due to the various array of fruits cultivated within the area.
E-book this tour and call the tour operator straight by way of the shape beneath:
Good to Know About Mountaineering Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey route is totally breathtaking from begin to end, winding its approach via cliffs, canyons, and a sprawling valley. It cuts via the beautiful landscapes of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a gorge carved by the Guadalhorce River, with towering partitions reaching 700 meters excessive.
The whole path is almost 8 kilometers lengthy and was referred to as probably the most treacherous on the planet. These days, it has been meticulously renovated and is way safer.
The path options beautiful walkways and bridges suspended excessive between tall cliffs, positive to thrill even the bravest hiker. It’s not beneficial for these afraid of heights!
The suspended walkway part, stretching 2.9 kilometers between the north and south management cabins, provides a novel expertise. The remainder of the path winds via mountain paths and forest tracks connecting the management cabins and the doorway/exit factors.
The employees provides guests a tough hat on the management sales space and checks that their footwear are acceptable.
An different to the aerial path is a 300-meter tunnel working parallel to the walkways of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes. This tunnel, principally contained in the Hoyo Valley, supplies a protected route on windy or wet days to keep away from potential mudslides.
This space is teeming with a various vary of plant and animal species; in the event you’re fortunate, you may catch a glimpse of majestic birds like Egyptian vultures, griffon vultures, or golden eagles, in addition to mammals similar to wild boar and Iberian ibex.
Initially constructed between the cascades of Gaitanejo and El Chorro to facilitate the transport of supplies and upkeep staff to the close by hydroelectric dam, the trail was inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII in 1921. Ever because it has been affectionately known as “the King’s little stroll” – Caminito del Rey.
Don’t overlook to pack water, snacks like chocolate, nuts, fruit, or a sandwich on your hike.
Associated learn: Tips to Prevent Injuries on Active Holidays
Tickets for Caminito del Rey
Children below 8 can’t go to Caminito del Rey. For these 8 and older, deliver your ID or Household E-book (simply in case) to substantiate your age.
Common ticket: $10
Discover Caminito at your individual tempo. Max of 10 tickets per buy.
Guided tour: $18
Be a part of a gaggle of as much as 30 individuals led by a licensed information. Excursions out there in Spanish and English.
Shuttle Bus: $2.50
Money solely when shopping for it on the bus.
Parking: $2
For Your Return Journey
Because the path is one-way, plan for an hour to return to your start line.
When you journey with Toro Blanco, they are going to decide you up by automobile and take you again to your lodge.
When you drove, park in designated areas and take the shuttle bus again. When you desire to stroll, be conscious of sunshine and climate circumstances on the slim highway.
When you arrive by practice, take the shuttle bus from El Chorro-Caminito del Rey station to the path’s northern finish. Account for this further journey time. Once you end the hike, merely hop again on the practice.
To Get There by Your self
Ardales and El Chorro stations are accessible by automobile from Málaga (about 50 minutes), Ronda (60 km away), or Antequera (55 km). El Chorro-Caminito del Rey railway station on the Málaga-Seville line provides connections to cities like Ronda.
Go to the official website for route ideas, opening hours, and instructions.
