Trying down, it was 200 meters to the canyon ground; above, a flock of vultures circled within the rising warmth of the day.
I noticed as one chicken gracefully descended into the slender valley, hovering simply 30 meters above the walkway and skimming the cliffside because it glided in direction of me. It was the closest encounter I’ve ever had with a griffon vulture, and it was actually spectacular, with its huge two and a half meter wingspan and finger-like ideas.
Because it handed overhead, its head swiveled backward and forward seeking prey. This is only one particular second whereas mountain climbing Caminito Del Ray.
Associated learn: The Finest Locations to Go to in Andalucía
Toro Blanco’s Senior Information Paul wrote a unbelievable journey tip about mountain climbing Caminito Del Rey. This canyon can also be featured on their guided biking tour in Andalusia all 12 months spherical.
Get a novel perception into this wonderful day journey!
The King’s Highway
The Caminito Del Rey, also called the Kings Highway, is an 8km pathway by a canyon in Andalucia, Spain. Alongside a lot of the path, hikers traverse the cliff facet on a walkway mounted midway between the valley ground 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 lovely area of Spain. Whereas I’m not an skilled on El Caminito, we have been lucky to have a specialist information with us to share its historical past.
As we placed on our arduous hats close to the doorway, our information Isa joined us. “The unique path was constructed in 1901 to supply entry for employees 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 manufactured from concrete and steel poles drilled into the cliff, attracting adventurous hikers over time. Nevertheless, because the concrete deteriorated and gaps appeared, the trail reworked into extra of a climbing route and was ultimately closed in 2000,” she elaborated.
Following a significant 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: Suggestions for Energetic 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 by a large wooded valley, although the river stays far beneath. As you progress, the canyon partitions slender, and the actual journey begins as you meet your information.
The cliffs steadily draw nearer, and the walkway unfolds. The route is usually flat, with some undulating sections that flip into steps. After a couple of 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. Finally, 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 your complete path are breathtaking as you navigate the cliffside, passing by a home that was inhabited till only a few 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 out there 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 by the orange groves and up the hills adorned with sun-drenched olive timber.
As you go by 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 often known as the fruit basket of Europe amongst Spaniards, due to the varied array of fruits cultivated within the area.
Guide this tour and get in touch with the tour operator immediately through the shape beneath:
Good to Know About Mountain climbing Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey route is completely breathtaking from begin to end, winding its method by cliffs, canyons, and a sprawling valley. It cuts by the beautiful landscapes of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a gorge carved by the Guadalhorce River, with towering partitions reaching 700 meters excessive.
Your complete path is sort of 8 kilometers lengthy and was once often known as one of the vital treacherous on this planet. These days, it has been meticulously renovated and is way safer.
The path options beautiful walkways and bridges suspended excessive between tall cliffs, certain to thrill even the bravest hiker. It’s not advisable for these afraid of heights!
The suspended walkway part, stretching 2.9 kilometers between the north and south management cabins, affords a novel expertise. The remainder of the path winds by 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 applicable.
An different to the aerial path is a 300-meter tunnel operating parallel to the walkways of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes. This tunnel, largely contained in the Hoyo Valley, offers 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 case you’re fortunate, you would possibly catch a glimpse of majestic birds like Egyptian vultures, griffon vultures, or golden eagles, in addition to mammals resembling wild boar and Iberian ibex.
Initially constructed between the cascades of Gaitanejo and El Chorro to facilitate the transport of supplies and upkeep employees 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 neglect to pack water, snacks like chocolate, nuts, fruit, or a sandwich in your hike.
Associated learn: Tricks to Stop Accidents on Energetic Holidays
Tickets for Caminito del Rey
Children beneath 8 can’t go to Caminito del Rey. For these 8 and older, carry your ID or Household Guide (simply in case) to substantiate your age.
Common ticket: $10
Discover Caminito at your personal tempo. Max of 10 tickets per buy.
Guided tour: $18
Be part of a gaggle of as much as 30 folks led by an authorized information. Excursions accessible 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 place to begin.
If you happen to journey with Toro Blanco, they’ll choose you up by automobile and take you again to your lodge.
If you happen to drove, park in designated areas and take the shuttle bus again. If you happen to favor to stroll, be aware of sunshine and climate situations on the slender street.
If you happen to arrive by prepare, take the shuttle bus from El Chorro-Caminito del Rey station to the path’s northern finish. Account for this further journey time. Whenever you end the hike, merely hop again on the prepare.
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 affords connections to cities like Ronda.
Go to the official web site for route strategies, opening hours, and instructions.
