Upgraded - Walking in Andalucia

Welcome to Malaga, the gateway to your Andalusian adventure. There are no activities planned today, so you're free to arrive in Malaga at any time. The Tour Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 7pm for a welcome meeting and for those that wish, there is the chance to go out for dinner. Should you miss the meeting, your leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up. For those arriving early, you might like to take time to wander the historic streets, discover the Picasso Museum, or relax by the harbour. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Malaga airport, which is around a 15-minute drive from our hotel. As part of our Upgraded range, we also offer a complimentary transfer to those who have made pre-tour accommodation arrangements through Explore, regardless of your arrival day.

Today we journey to one of Andalucia's most spectacular destinations with a scenic one hour and 15 minute drive to the clifftop town of Ronda. Upon arrival, we trek through the legendary Tajo Gorge. This magnificent route takes us deep into the 120-metre-deep limestone canyon that divides the old and new towns, offering remarkable perspectives of the sheer cliff faces and the historic bridges that span this natural wonder. With an elevation change of 300 metres/ 900 feet the walk provides a mix of descent into the gorge and ascent back to street level, revealing hidden viewpoints and secret corners of this unique geological formation. We'll then have time to explore Ronda's old town, widely considered one of Andalusia's most captivating historic centres. Wander through the atmospheric streets of La Ciudad and soak in the ambiance of this mountaintop settlement that has inspired writers and artists for centuries. Later this afternoon, we continue our journey by bus to Antequera, where we'll check into the elegant Hotel Parador de Antequera for a three-night stay, perfectly positioned for exploring this historic crossroads town and the surrounding natural treasures. During our stays at the Paradores we will be mainly taking dinners in their acclaimed restaurants. Please see the food section for further details. Our 8-kilometre/ 5-mile walk is expected to take three hours, with an elevation gain and loss of around 300 metres/980 feet.

This morning we take a drive up to the remarkable Torcal de Antequera, where we'll explore one of Spain's most extraordinary natural landscapes. Our walking route winds through a maze of limestone formations, sculpted by millions of years of erosion into fantastical shapes, from towering stone pillars to intricate rock arches that create a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere. We will also pick a good spot for a lovely picnic lunch. We then drive on to Antequera to visit the fascinating Dolmens. This UNESCO World Heritage site features remarkably well-preserved Neolithic burial chambers, including the impressive Dolmen de Menga, which dates back over 5,000 years and represents some of Europe's most significant megalithic monuments. Our day ends in the historic town of Antequera where there's time to explore the impressive Alcazaba fortress. These medieval castle remains, perched dramatically above the town, offer panoramic views across the Andalusian countryside and provide insight into the region's Moorish heritage. Tonight is our chance to try out one of the many local restaurants in the city. Today's 6-kilometre/ 4-mile walk is expected to take two and a half hours, with a total ascent and descent of 300 metres/980 feet.

Today we embark on one of Spain's most exhilarating walking experiences with a 50-minute transfer to Ardales for the legendary Caminito del Rey. El Caminito del Rey (The King's Little Path) is a walkway pinned along the steep walls of a narrow gorge in El Chorro offering a thrilling journey through some of Andalusia's most dramatic scenery. The cliff-side path hangs 100 metres above the waters of the river Guadalhorce reservoir, winding through dramatic cliffs, canyons, and expansive valleys. The route crosses the spectacular landscapes of Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a magnificent gorge carved by the river Guadalhorce with towering walls that rise 700 metres/2,297 feet high. Following our mountain traverse, we transfer back to Antequera (one hour) where the day concludes with a delightful wine tasting experience at Bodega Gross Hermanos, set in a stunning natural mountain setting near the town. This family winery, established in 2007, combines tradition, innovation and modernity, with certified organic vineyards treated sustainably on deep and steep mountains. You'll sample wines produced from grapes grown on these vertiginous slopes, while learning about the ancient winemaking traditions that have made Malaga wines famous throughout history, all while surrounded by the Andalusian mountain landscape. The Caminito hike will be 8 kilometres/5 miles and take approximately three hours, with an ascent of 100 metres/300 feet and a descent of 250 metres/700 feet.

Our walk here perfectly showcases the variety of landscapes, starting in a flat valley where sheep graze, before passing through small forests of Holm Oak to follow the river where whie poplars are a feature. These give way to olive trees as we emerge from the canyon for panoramic views of the village and castle of Zuherros. With its whitewashed houses and sweeping views, the village offers a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life. There's time for a refreshing drink before we continue to Jaen, where we check into the Parador de Jaen set within the walls of the Castillo Santa Catalina, our home for the next three nights. Originally an 8th century Moorish fortress, the castle underwent several transformations, the bulk of which was finished under Alfonso X and Ferdinand IV. The hilltop location affords us excellent views of the surrounding landscape and the dining and common areas create a unique atmosphere. Today's 14-kilometre/ 8.7-mile walk is expected to take four hours and 30 mins with a total ascent of 120 metres/510 feet and descent of 400 metres/1,340 feet.

Our final walk of the week offers a fitting culmination to our Andalusian adventure: a circular hike directly from our hilltop retreat. This route takes us through a varied terrain of rocky paths and inclines, allowing us to look back over our castle home and Jaen itself. As we traverse the area, we encounter hidden corners and secluded valleys, each offering its own perspective on this captivating region. Following the walk there are a few hours in the afternoon to explore the Parador and castle. The viewpoint at the end of the castle walls offers a 360 degree vantage point and a coffee or drink on the terrace is a great way to unwind before dinner. Today's 10-kilometre/6-mile walk is expected to take three hours, with a total cumulative ascent and descent of 370 metres/1,200 feet.

Today is yours to explore Jaen at your own pace. There is a regular shuttle bus that leaves from outside the hotel down to the city, costing just €1.15 and taking 15 minutes. Jaen has plenty to offer, despite being not considered to be on the main tourist trail. Jaen cathedral is well worth a visit, with the entrance including an audio guide and excellent VR experience. The Arab baths, found in 1913 underneath the 16th century Palacio de Villardompardo, are fascinating and there are plenty of options for a long slow lunch. For those seeking more walking, optional activities include a hike in the Sierra Magina Natural Park where there are a number of trails of differing duration and difficulty. Alternatively, you could take a day trip to Granada. Your tour leader can provide recommendations and assistance with arrangements.

Our trip ends in Jaen. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you need to depart from Malaga airport, which is around a 2-hour drive from our hotel. As part of our Upgraded range, we also offer a complimentary transfer to those who have made post-tour accommodation arrangements through Explore, regardless of your departure day.