Málaga’s nature reserves: the perfect place to unwind in the great outdoors
Discover the most picturesque trails on the Costa del Sol in this brief guide to Málaga’s natural parks. Mediterranean woodlands, cliffs and crystal-clear waters will allow you to discover the highlights of this part of Andalusia’s natural heritage.
Top 3 natural parks in Málaga
If there’s one thing Málaga has to offer, apart from its lovely climate, the cheerfulness of its people and its superb cuisine, it’s landscapes full of contrasts. This tour of Málaga’s three main natural parks allows you to savour the essence of the Mediterranean, with a touch of both sea and mountains.
Sierra de las Nieves
The Sierra de las Nieves is nestled between the Costa del Sol and the Serranía de Ronda. It is characterised by its mountainous terrain, highlighted by the 1,919-metre-high peak of La Torrecilla, and its karst landscape, which colours much of the view red.
It is a charming mountainous landscape with a great diversity of plant life. Pine trees, gall oaks, holm oaks and Spanish firs, as well as a wealth of birds, reptiles and small mammals, make up the incredible biodiversity of one of Andalusia’s most valuable natural areas.
Acantilados de Maro-Cerro Gordo
On the eastern coast of Málaga, between Nerja and La Herradura (in the province of Granada), lies a coastal nature reserve characterised by unspoilt beaches, rugged cliffs and small, secluded coves.
The Maro-Cerro Gordo Cliffs Natural Park is a unique spot thanks to its crystal-clear waters, ideal for diving and other water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking. There are also numerous walking routes for seabird watching or landscape photography.
Desfiladero de los Gaitanes
Although the Gaitanes Gorge is classified as a natural landscape (a smaller and more specific area than a natural park), it is one of the most popular nature destinations in the province. Its fame stems from the fact that it is home to the famous Caminito del Rey, a route comprising around 3 km of walkways that rise up to 100 m above the River Guadalhorce.
The site is of great value not only for its natural beauty but also for its history. The route, which runs between vertical limestone cliffs, dates back to the early 20th century and was built as a passageway for workers at a hydroelectric power station. Following its restoration in 2015, this imposing gorge, situated between the municipalities of Ardales, Álora and Antequera, is one of the most visited places in Málaga.