3 Best Hikes in Spain for Spectacular Views

During October the weather in Andalucía becomes milder and it’s the best time to explore various hikes in Spain. Visiting Southern Spain at this time of year is fantastic as the busy tourist period winds down, but the festivities continue with some of the largest fiestas happening in the Costa del Sol region.

Spain closes down on the 12th October for the Dia de la Hispanidia, Spain’s national day. During the day, Spaniards commemorate the first time that Christopher Columbus sailed for the Americas. In order to pay tribute to Spain’s National Day, we have put together a list of the 3 best hikes which can be explored in the region close to Shanti-Som. They showcase spectacular views and unique fauna and flora that comes with our beautiful warm climate. It’s a wonderful weekend activity or something to do over the National Day holiday if you are in the Marbella region. Of course, we would love to welcome you to Shanti-Som for a well-deserved lunch, detox juice or relaxing spa treatment to end your hike.

Istan – La Concha Hike (PR-A 135)

• DIFFICULTY Difficult
• DISTANCE 5,3 km (one way)
• TIME 3:30 h (one way)

The Istán – Pico de la Concha – PR-A 135 Trail takes us to the highest peak in the Sierra Blanca, in the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. From its peak we can see the mountains of Morocco, the Sierra Nevada as well as some impressive views of La Concepción reservoir.

La Concha, the large mountain that overlooks Marbella and the surrounding area, has been climbed by many over the years. From the top of La Concha you can see mountains of Sierra Nevada, Morocco and a wonderful panoramic view of the Concepción Reservoir.

Firstly, you need to make your way to the Refugio de Juanar Hotel, just 10 minutes from Marbella up the road to Ójen. From this point, you can select one of several different routes all varying in difficulty and duration.
If you are with younger children, the walk to the summit is really a little too challenging. However there is a perfect route with gentle inclines that takes you through the olive groves and forest along to the viewpoint (Fin de Sendero). A gentle amble gets you there in an hour and a half.

The walk to the summit of La Concha will take you around 3.5 hours. This is a tough mountain walk mainly on narrow stony paths. There are a couple of short scrambles, and some exposed drops where care is required. This is one of the absolute classic walks on the coast and should be on the “to do“ list for all fit walkers.

Marbella – Istan Hike (PR-A 140)

• DIFFICULTY Medium
• DISTANCE 8,3 km (one way)
• TIME 3:20 h (one way)

The Istán – Marbella – PR-A 140 Trail is the path that once connected the towns of Istán and Marbella before the road was built. The trail runs through estates dedicated to olive trees, past the foot of Peñón Bermejo rock formation and through streams. You will enjoy beautiful views of the Río Verde reservoir, the coast and the Natural Auditorium in the old Sierra Blanca quarry.

The walk is not particularly difficult in terms of gradient, but it is quite a long way. The walk alternates between footpaths and dirt tracks surrounded by purely Mediterranean vegetation, including the enormous carob trees you will find along the way.

Senda Jose Lima – Pozuelo Hike (PR-A 278)

• DIFFICULTY Easy
• DISTANCE 6,3 km
• TIME 2:30 h (total)

The route is ideal to do it with the family or if you are a beginner in fitness levels. It is a circular track that gives stunning views of the Sierra de las Nieves mountains and the valley of the Verde River.

The Juanar – El Pozuelo Trail – PR-A 278 should be done on a clear day to be able to enjoy the views. The itinerary is comfortable and passes through several ecosystems, including a small forest of Spanish firs. All along the route you will pass many mountain goats grazing lazily on the grass.

 

Conclusion on best hikes in Spain

If you would like to explore more hiking tracks in the region, the Marbella Turismo is a wonderful resource of information. Shanti-Som has daily group guided hikes which are led by our Wellness Team as part of our Retreat programs. It’s a wonderful way to connect with nature and other likeminded people from around the world. During our Bliss Hikes we introduce the concept of Mindfulness through Walking Meditation. This means focusing on the experience of walking, being aware of the sensations of standing and the subtle movements that keep your balance. If you are new to meditation, this is one of the best techniques to start with. You are not in a stationary sitting position and can bring the mind back to awareness through your steps.

Please contact our Team to learn more about our Guided Hikes and Retreat programs.