Wanting down, it was a superb 200 meters to the canyon ground; above, a flock of vultures circled within the rising warmth of the day.
I noticed as one hen gracefully descended into the slender 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 huge 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 climbing Caminito Del Ray.
Associated learn: The Finest Locations to Go to in Andalucía
Toro Blanco’s Senior Information Paul wrote a incredible journey tip about climbing Caminito Del Rey. This canyon can be featured on their guided biking tour in Andalusia all 12 months spherical.
Get a singular perception into this superb day journey!
The King’s Highway
The Caminito Del Rey, also called the Kings Highway, is an 8km pathway by means of 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 stunning area of Spain. Whereas I’m not an knowledgeable on El Caminito, we have been lucky to have a specialist information with us to share its historical past.
As we placed on our laborious 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 product of concrete and metallic poles drilled into the cliff, attracting adventurous hikers over time. Nonetheless, because the concrete deteriorated and gaps appeared, the trail remodeled into extra of a climbing route and was finally closed in 2000,” she elaborated.
Following a serious reconstruction effort, the trail reopened in 2015. It has since grow 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 means of 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 step by step draw nearer, and the walkway unfolds. The route is generally 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 nearly 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 will 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 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 obtainable for the return journey to the place to begin, 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 means of the orange groves and up the hills adorned with sun-drenched olive bushes.
As you go by means of the charming historic cities and villages, every boasting its personal breathtaking view, you’ll respect the enjoyment of discovering these hidden gems, a few of which can be unfamiliar to you.
Andalucía is usually often called the fruit basket of Europe amongst Spaniards, because of the various array of fruits cultivated within the area.
Ebook this tour and call the tour operator immediately 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 means by means of cliffs, canyons, and a sprawling valley. It cuts by means of the gorgeous landscapes of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a gorge carved by the Guadalhorce River, with towering partitions reaching 700 meters excessive.
All the path is almost 8 kilometers lengthy and was often called one of the crucial treacherous on this planet. These days, it has been meticulously renovated and is far safer.
The path options gorgeous 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 singular expertise. The remainder of the path winds by means of mountain paths and forest tracks connecting the management cabins and the doorway/exit factors.
The workers offers guests a tough hat on the management sales space and checks that their footwear are applicable.
An various to the aerial path is a 300-meter tunnel working parallel to the walkways of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes. This tunnel, largely 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; if you happen to’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 overlook to pack water, snacks like chocolate, nuts, fruit, or a sandwich in your hike.
Associated learn: Tricks to Forestall Accidents on Energetic Holidays
Tickets for Caminito del Rey
Youngsters underneath 8 can’t go to Caminito del Rey. For these 8 and older, deliver your ID or Household Ebook (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 folks led by an authorized 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
For the reason that path is one-way, plan for an hour to return to your place to begin.
If you happen to journey with Toro Blanco, they are going to 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 conscious of sunshine and climate situations on the slender highway.
If you happen to 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. Whenever 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 web site for route strategies, opening hours, and instructions.
