Caminito del Rey and the Northwest

Our journey begins along the extensive sandy beach of Torremolinos towards the mouth of the River Guadalhorce. This picturesque route takes us through the fascinating landscape of the Costa del Sol, where the bright blue of the sea meets the golden beaches.

We follow the course of the Río Guadalhorce inland, where the landscape gradually changes. The river meanders through green valleys and past extensive plantations that bear witness to the region's rich agricultural heritage. The farmers here have specialized in the cultivation of date palms and sugar cane, whose yields are particularly high due to the fertile soil and optimal climatic conditions.

Finally, we reach the charming little town of Álora, which towers high above the valley. Álora is not only known for its historic old town and Moorish fortress, but also as the center of brandy production in the region. The numerous distilleries that have set up shop here give the town a unique character and make it an important port of call for connoisseurs and lovers of this fine drink. The traditional distilleries have been cultivating the craft for generations and produce brandy of exceptional quality, which is appreciated far beyond the borders of Andalusia.

Continuing along the Río Guadalhorce, the picturesque and increasingly mountainous route leads to the imposing Tajo de la Encantada dam, which towers majestically in front of the small village of El Chorro. The dam, which dams up the water of the Río Guadalhorce, is an impressive structure that not only serves to generate energy, but also offers a picturesque panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The landscape that opens up here is a foretaste of the rugged and spectacular natural beauty that characterizes this region.

One of the most dramatic and impressive canyons in Spain, the Desfiladeros de los Gaitanes, begins in the immediate vicinity of the dam. This breathtaking gorge was carved into the rock by the Guadalhorce River over thousands of years and stretches for around 5 kilometers. The steep rock faces, up to 700 meters high, that surround the gorge make it one of the most famous and popular climbing areas in Spain.

In addition to its importance as a climbing paradise, the Desfiladeros de los Gaitanes is also world-famous for another attraction: the Caminito del Rey, also known as the "King's Path". This spectacular, dizzyingly high path literally clings to the rock faces of the canyon and leads over narrow footbridges and bridges along the cliffs. Originally the Caminito del Rey was used as a maintenance path for workers at the nearby hydroelectric power stations and the railroad line, but today it is one of Andalusia's biggest tourist attractions.

On the opposite side of the gorge runs a no less impressive railroad line on the Málaga-Córdoba line. This spectacular line runs through several tunnels and over high bridges that span the canyon.

The route to the Mirador (viewpoint) leads along a winding but extremely scenic road that runs through the mountainous landscape of the province of Málaga. The road is in good condition, but narrow and steep in some places, which makes it an adventure, especially for experienced drivers. Along the way, there are always small bays that are ideal for short stops to enjoy the impressive landscape and take photos.

During the drive, the panorama changes between deep valleys, green slopes and majestic rock formations. The road winds along the mountain slopes and repeatedly offers breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. The drive is particularly impressive at sunrise or sunset, when the warm light bathes the rocks in a golden glow and the landscape is bathed in a fascinating play of colors.

Shortly before reaching the Mirador, the road passes the Presa (dam) de Mesas de Villaverde, which already offers a foretaste of the magnificent view from the viewpoint. From the Mirador itself, we can see the full extent of this impressive region and enjoy the tranquillity and majesty of the Andalusian mountains to the full.

The picturesque lake district in the region around El Chorro consists of three large reservoirs that are considered true jewels of the Andalusian landscape: the Embalse del Conde de Guadalhorce, the Embalse de Guadalteba and the Embalse de Guadalhorce. These impressive bodies of water are not only scenic, but also of great technical and historical importance. They serve as important water reservoirs for the region and offer numerous leisure opportunities for visitors.

The Embalse del Conde de Guadalhorce is the best known of the three lakes and often the centerpiece of the lake district. This reservoir, which was completed in 1921, owes its name to the Conde de Guadalhorce, an important promoter of the construction work. The reservoir is surrounded by dense pine forests and rocky cliffs, which give it an idyllic yet dramatic atmosphere. On its shores is the so-called "Sillón del Rey" (King's Chair), a unique complex consisting of two stone benches, an armchair and a table. King Alfonso XIII signed the completion of the construction of the reservoir at this historic site, which gives the place a special symbolic value. The Embalse de Guadalteba and the Embalse de Guadalhorce, which together with the Conde de Guadalhorce reservoir form a coherent water system, are in the immediate vicinity.

We have the opportunity to drive over two dams and a bridge to cross the lake district and experience the various reservoirs at close quarters. The dams offer a fascinating insight into the engineering of the early 20th century and allow visitors to experience the power and scale of the water masses up close. The bridge that crosses part of the lakes not only provides a practical link, but also offers spectacular views of the deep blue water and the surrounding mountain landscape.

The Castillo de la Estrella fortress is not far from the impressive reservoirs. We make our way along the northern shore of the lake to Teba. The medieval fortress may only be preserved in fragments today, but the remaining buildings create a surreal and fascinating photo backdrop. From the remains of the towers and walls, there is an impressive view of the surrounding area that will make the heart of any history lover beat faster.

The fortress dates back to Roman times, with the preserved towers and walls offering a fascinating insight into ancient architecture. During Arab rule, the fortress was further expanded and served as a strategic defense system in the region. However, the fortress achieved its greatest historical significance in 1330, when it became the scene of the famous Battle of Teba. This decisive clash pitted the troops of King Alfonso XI of Castile-Leon against those of Emir Muhammad IV of Granada. The battle was an important moment in the Christian reconquest of Andalusia.

One particular chapter of this battle tells the story of the Scottish knight James Douglas, a close friend and officer of the Scottish king Robert the Bruce. Douglas was on his way to the Holy Land to bury the heart of the deceased king when he became involved in the Battle of Teba. He fought bravely alongside the Castilian troops, but fell in the battle. In honor of his bravery and service, a great festival is held in the town of Teba in late July to early August, attracting visitors from Scotland and across the region. These celebrations offer a vibrant mix of history, culture and community and bring the events of the past back to life in a unique atmosphere.

As soon as we leave Teba behind us, wide olive groves and golden wheat fields stretch out, interrupted by small hills covered in pine trees. The region is characterized by agriculture, which is reflected in the numerous fields and plantations that line the agricultural road. The road is well developed but winding in places, which makes the ride an exciting experience. The gentle ups and downs of the hills lend the landscape a calming harmony, while the sometimes jagged rocks that protrude from the earth in some places provide dramatic accents. The route gradually climbs as we approach Cañete la Real, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. As we approach, the imposing castle of Cañete la Real comes into view, towering high above the village and telling a long story. The castle is a landmark of the region and offers a breathtaking view of the village and the surrounding landscape. Here we can opt for another addition to the tour.

After passing through Cañete la Real, the road leads through a varied landscape characterized by rolling hills, olive groves and wheat fields. The hills are often covered with low shrubs and wild flowers that bathe the landscape in a sea of color in spring and early summer. Time and again, the view opens up onto wide valleys where small rivers and streams meander through the landscape. The road is narrow and winding in places and follows the natural course of the hills. On the way to Setenil de las Bodegas, we also pass through some dense pine forests, which provide pleasant shade and contrast with the more open, sun-drenched fields. Occasionally, old, lonely farmhouses appear, which look like remnants of a bygone era and underline the rustic charm of the region. Shortly before Setenil de las Bodegas, the landscape opens up and we begin to see the region's characteristic white villages, perched on the hills or nestled in the valleys. The arrival in Setenil de las Bodegas is particularly impressive, as the village is nestled in a dramatic gorge. We are now already in the province of Cádiz.

Setenil de las Bodegas is a unique village characterized by its extraordinary architecture. What makes Setenil so special are the houses built directly into the rock faces of the gorge. The rocks tower over the streets and provide a natural canopy, giving the alleyways an almost surreal atmosphere. The town lies along the Río Trejo, which has cut deep into the rock and formed the characteristic gorge in which Setenil de las Bodegas is located. The whitewashed houses, some of which were built directly under the overhanging cliffs, create a unique townscape that is unparalleled anywhere in the world. The most famous streets, such as Calle Cuevas del Sol (Street of the Sun Caves) and Calle Cuevas de la Sombra (Street of the Shadow Caves), run beneath these mighty rock overhangs and are particularly popular with visitors. There we can stroll through the narrow, winding streets and enjoy the extraordinary architecture. There is a rich culinary tradition, and many of the small bars and restaurants offer local specialties such as tapas, olive oil and the famous local wine.

Our route leads from Serrato via El Burgo, Casarabonela and Mijas back to the sea at Benalmádena through some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes in the province of Málaga. This stage offers a mixture of mountain villages, spectacular panoramas, dense forests and finally the Mediterranean coast. We ride via Serrato, a small, quiet village surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills. The route initially leads through the wide, open landscape of the Andalusian Sierra, where olive trees dominate the fields. The route is winding and gradually climbs as approach the mountain village of El Burgo.

El Burgo is a picturesque white village perched on a hill and surrounded by the lush vegetation of the nearby Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. Here, pine forests, pines and chestnut trees dominate the landscape, which turns a brilliant green in spring. The route to Casarabonela is spectacular and offers breathtaking panoramic views over the mountain ranges and deep gorges. The sometimes narrow road winds its way through pine forests and past steep rock faces as it slowly descends towards the village.

Casarabonela is a charming white village located at the foot of the mountains and is known for its Moorish past. The remains of an old Moorish fortress bear witness to the village's rich history. The village is surrounded by lush vegetation and agricultural land where olives, almonds and oranges are grown. The drive from Casarabonela to Mijas first takes us back to the Guadalhorce Valley, where the route runs through fertile fields and lush plantations. This region is known for its orchards, where oranges, lemons and olives thrive. The road is less winding here and offers a more pleasant ride through the open countryside until it takes us back into the mountains of the Sierra de Mijas with numerous twists and turns.

Mijas Pueblo is perched on a mountainside and offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean and is one of the most famous white villages in Andalusia. The village is known for its narrow, cobbled streets, its small bullring, whitewashed houses and colorful flowers that create a picturesque backdrop. There are many small stores selling local handicrafts and traditional products, as well as cozy cafés and restaurants serving typical Andalusian dishes.

Our route now leads from Mijas Pueblo towards the coast to Benalmádena. The road winds its way down the mountain and offers breathtaking views of the glittering Mediterranean on the descent. On a clear day, we can see the mountainous coastline of Africa on the horizon. The closer we get to the sea, the more the landscape changes. The dense forests and green hills gradually give way to Mediterranean vegetation and the more urban areas of the coast. Benalmádena itself is a lively coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, marina and vibrant nightlife. We reach the coastal road where the mountains meet the sea and we can enjoy the fresh sea breeze.