Wanting 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 chook 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 ideas.
Because it handed overhead, its head swiveled back and forth looking for prey. This is only one particular second whereas mountaineering Caminito Del Ray.
Associated learn: The Best Places to Visit in Andalucía
Toro Blanco’s Senior Information Paul wrote a incredible journey tip about mountaineering 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 Street
The Caminito Del Rey, also referred to as the Kings Street, is an 8km pathway by way of a canyon in Andalucia, Spain. Alongside a lot of the path, hikers traverse the cliff facet on a walkway fastened 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 bunch on a week-long biking and strolling journey on this stunning area of Spain. Whereas I’m not an knowledgeable on El Caminito, we had 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 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 product of 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 finally 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 alternative 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 by way of a large wooded valley, although the river stays far under. As you progress, the canyon partitions slender, and the true journey begins as you meet your information.
The cliffs regularly draw nearer, and the walkway unfolds. The route is generally flat, with some undulating sections that flip into steps. After a number of extra kilometers, the canyon widens, revealing a wooded valley with the river flowing under.
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 other wall and extra boardwalk.
All through the stroll, remnants of the previous route might be seen under, with crumbling concrete and precarious bridges.
The views alongside the whole path are breathtaking as you navigate the cliffside, passing by a home that was inhabited till only a few many years in the past in a distant location.
Upon finishing the stroll, particularly on a sizzling 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 start line, however with Toro Blanco, you’ll be met by automotive 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 way of the orange groves and up the hills adorned with sun-drenched olive timber.
As you go by way of 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 called the fruit basket of Europe amongst Spaniards, due to the varied array of fruits cultivated within the area.
Guide this tour and call the tour operator straight by way of the shape under:
Good to Know About Climbing Caminito del Rey
The Caminito del Rey route is totally breathtaking from begin to end, winding its approach by way of cliffs, canyons, and a sprawling valley. It cuts by way 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 treacherous on the planet. These days, it has been meticulously renovated and is way safer.
The path options gorgeous walkways and bridges suspended excessive between tall cliffs, certain to thrill even the bravest hiker. It isn’t really useful for these afraid of heights!
The suspended walkway part, stretching 2.9 kilometers between the north and south management cabins, gives a novel expertise. The remainder of the path winds by way of mountain paths and forest tracks connecting the management cabins and the doorway/exit factors.
The workers 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; when you’re fortunate, you would possibly catch a glimpse of majestic birds like Egyptian vultures, griffon vultures, or golden eagles, in addition to mammals corresponding 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
Youngsters beneath 8 can’t go to Caminito del Rey. For these 8 and older, convey your ID or Household Guide (simply in case) to verify your age.
Common ticket: $10
Discover Caminito at your individual tempo. Max of 10 tickets per buy.
Guided tour: $18
Be part of a bunch of as much as 30 individuals led by a licensed information. Excursions obtainable 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.
Should you journey with Toro Blanco, they’ll choose you up by automotive and take you again to your lodge.
Should you drove, park in designated areas and take the shuttle bus again. Should you favor to stroll, be aware of sunshine and climate circumstances on the slender street.
Should 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. 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 automotive 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 gives connections to cities like Ronda.
Go to the official website for route strategies, opening hours, and instructions.
