About the Andalucia Classic trek
At a glance...
Country: Spain
Group size: Minimum of four (4), maximum of fourteen (14)
Duration: 11 days/ 10 nights
Activity: Trekking, sightseeing
Travel style: Guided
Difficulty grade: Moderate (See details below)
Comfort: Hotels
Lace up your boots and prepare to be blown away by the breathtaking trails that wind through the rugged mountain ranges, lush valleys, and charming white-washed villages of the Andalucia region!
Discover the beauty of the Serrania de Ronda, with its spectacular mountain-top villages perched on cliffs, offering stunning panoramic views. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Alpujarra valleys in the Sierra Nevada, where terraced fields and traditional houses paint a picturesque backdrop. Trek along the heart-stirring Caminito del Rey, a daring pathway carved along the cliffs, and marvel at the surreal karst landscape of the Torcal de Antequera.
But it’s not all about hiking. When off the trail, you’ll soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Spanish Flamenco dance and music, indulge in mouthwatering tapas, and explore historical gems like Seville, Ronda, and the awe-inspiring Alhambra Palace in Granada.
For an adventure that blends natural splendor and cultural wonders, Andalucia is the ultimate destination for hikers seeking an extraordinary Spanish experience.
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Andalucia Classic
11 days/10 nightsThis date will proceed with at least four (4) trekkers registered.
October 25 — November 3, 2024
Must book at least 60 days prior to departure. If, for some reason, the minimum number of trekkers required for your preferred departure is not reached, you will be eligible for either a refund or to transfer your deposit to another trek. See details HERE.
andalucia classic trek details
- 11 days discovering Andalucia, Spain’s dazzling deep south, one of Europe’s most enchanting regions
- 2 days trekking in the Serrania de Ronda mountain range including spectacular mountaintop villages
- 2 days trekking in the Alpujarra valleys of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range
- 1 day trekking the incredible Caminito del Rey
- 1 morning trekking in the otherworldly karst landscape of the Torcal de Antequera natural reserve
- A visit to Seville, the jewel in the crown of the ‘old world’ from where the Americas were discovered
- A visit to the clifftop town of Ronda, one of Spain’s oldest towns and the home of bullfighting
- Finish in Granada, with an exploration of the mesmerising Alhambra Palace
- Hobnail Trekking Co. long-sleeve trekking shirt and ball cap
- Custom Hobnail mobile app
- Lots of freebies
- Opportunities to get to know your fellow trekkers include an invitation to a WhatsApp group for your trek, group training hikes if trekkers live in proximity to each other, and other local social gatherings
- Local, English-speaking guide for your adventure
- Full board (double occupancy) in high-end hotels
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and wine with meals
- Ground transfers and luggage transport between accommodations (except to/from the airport)
- Entrance fees to all sites and attractions, including a Flamenco show, Caminito del Rey, The Alhambra, and a private Seville tour
- The company of new friends and the experience of a lifetime
- Travel insurance (See the Travel Insurance section on this page for details)
- International flights
- Entrance Visa
- Any meals not included on itinerary
- Drinks other than table water and wine with meals
- Entrance fees for attractions not included in itinerary
- Tips for leaders, guides, etc. (we’ll give you guidance on this)
- Transfers to/from the airport
- Personal trekking equipment (hiking boots, clothing, etc.)
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Spending money, including for souvenirs
- Everything not specified in “Included”
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
We rate this trek as moderate, or two boots. You will definitely need to prepare for the physicality of the trip, but you won’t be climbing enormous mountains or sleeping in the snow.
Please take your training and fitness seriously prior to departing for this trek. If you are not fit enough to complete any walking/hiking part of the itinerary, you will be responsible for any costs related to unplanned transportation from the trail back to your hotel or other special arrangements not covered in your trek cost.
OK, here’s where we get serious. Hobnail requires that all trekkers purchase travel/medical insurance that covers them properly for all trekking activities.
There are a lot more details you need to know about travel insurance than we want to put in this limited space — including stuff about trip cancellations and what company we recommend — so when you’re ready, pop over to our Travel Insurance page.
We consider our treks to be adventures, not vacations. We’re not Hobnail Vacation Company, after all! Don’t get us wrong; we like vacations as much as the next person, but with our treks, you need to be physically and mentally ready. Here’s what we ask of you:
- You thoroughly read all the information we send you prior to departure.
- You get yourself an accountability partner and train properly. This doesn’t mean doing a few squats two weeks before departure.
- You familiarize yourself with your gear prior to leaving. Practice adjusting your backpack, filtering water if necessary, etc.
- If you purchase new boots, they are broken in well in advance of departure.
- When on trek, you FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS OF YOUR GUIDE. His or her only concern is helping you achieve your goal safely and in good health, but this won’t happen unless you follow their advice. This includes – but is not limited to – food recommendations, speed of pace, when to sleep and when not to, when to walk and when to rest, when to turn around due to illness, etc.
- When on trek, you treat your guide and the locals you encounter with the utmost respect. We are guests in their country and very grateful to be there.
All of these things may seem like common sense — and they are — but we feel that we must mention them. Hobnail’s goal is to provide you with the best experience possible, and you have an important role in achieving that goal.
Trekking is more dictated by conditioning and will than by age. On the Everest Base Camp (EBC) trail, for example, we see people in their 70s and as young as 10. We’ve seen people hiking with prosthetic limbs and even heard of a guy doing the entire EBC trek in a wheelchair. The bottom line is, if you have a passion for adventure and the outdoors, you are willing to train and prepare yourself, and you promise to follow your guide’s instructions, we will be honored to guide you on a trek.
A few days after registering for a trek (with a deposit of at least $500), we’ll give you a quick call to say hello and answer any initial questions you may have. If you use WhatsApp, we’ll add you to a group with your fellow trekkers so that you may interact with them, and possibly your guide, before departure. You’ll be able to post questions in the group anytime you’d like, talk about the cool gear you’re planning to take with you, organize group hikes if you live near each other, and generally just get to know those who will be sharing this incredible experience with you.
Within the first weeks after your trek is confirmed, you will receive a Welcome Kit from us. It contains stuff that you can use during training and on the trek itself, as well as some other fun things to get you (even more) excited about your trip.
You’ll also receive a login to our Hobnail app, which is full of great information including a day-by-day schedule, nearby points of interest, beautiful photography, and yet another way to contact us – through its messaging service. As your trip gets closer, we will continue to load information into your app, including your flights and airport maps, links to places you’ll be staying, and other tips and helpful information to ensure you have more than you need to feel confident about your upcoming trek.
The closer you get to your trek, the more you’ll hear from us — but of course, you can reach out any time you have a question.
Our Mobile App
When you book, we send you the login credentials to your own, customized app. By departure, your app will contain your flight info, passport, travel insurance docs, and COVID info, as well as your full itinerary, points of interest, and other amazing stuff. Get more details at our app page.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Welcome to Spain!
Arrive Malaga, welcome dinner & briefing.
No trekking today — just looking around and relaxing. Malaga is a vibrant Mediterranean seaport on the Costa del Sol in the Andalucia region of southern Spain and a great place to start this 10 day trip. This birthplace of Picasso is also famous for its rich architectural history, Mediterranean cuisine, local wines and sandy beaches. The ancient civilisations of the Phoenicians, Arabas, Greeks and Romans have all passed through and laid claim to the city at some stage and left their mark thanks to the strategic location of the port which has been an important site along the Mediterranean trade routes since ancient times.
We will stay at Hotel Don Curro where Orson Welles himself stayed in the 1960s and have dinner in the emblematic El Pimpi. We hope you love food as we are going to eat very well on this trip! See more about the food of the Andalucian region below.
DAY 2: CAMINITO DEL REY
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will embark on our first trek of the trip, heading to the famous Caminito del Rey. A 50-minute transfer will take us to the starting point, where we’ll begin our thrilling 4-hour journey. Once considered one of the most treacherous paths in the world, the entire route has been meticulously restored, ensuring a safer experience. However, one thing remains unchanged—the incomparable thrill of walking along walkways suspended over sheer cliffs, soaring more than 300 feet above the ground. The vistas that unfold before your eyes will leave you breathless.
The Caminito del Rey offers a truly spectacular adventure from start to finish. It winds its way through awe-inspiring cliffs, canyons, and a vast valley. As we traverse the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, a gorge carved by the Guadalhorce River, we’ll marvel at walls towering 2,300 feet high. This remarkable landscape is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. With a bit of luck, we may catch sight of magnificent highland birds like Egyptian vultures, griffon vultures, and golden eagles, as well as mammals such as wild boars and Iberian ibex.
The Caminito del Rey begins at an elevation of 400 meters above sea level and gradually descends to 300 meters. Following the path of the Guadalhorce River, our hike will primarily be downhill. Towards the end of our trek, there is a short, steep section with stairs. Once we complete the exhilarating walk, we will return to Malaga, where a traditional Andalusian dinner awaits us at Dinner El Fogon de Juan. We will spend the night once again at the charming Hotel Don Curro, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay.
DAY 3: Ronda
Today, our journey takes us inland to the enchanting town of Ronda, a short 55-minute transfer from our starting point. We will be staying overnight at the Catalonia Reina Victoria, nestled in this picturesque location. As we venture into the Serrania de Ronda mountain range, we’ll be captivated by the sight of charming white-washed villages dotting the landscape. Driving along winding roads that ascend into the mountains, we’ll be treated to breathtaking natural panoramas, with mountains interspersed by vast plains stretching as far as the eye can see.
Over the next few days, we will embark on spectacular treks through the white villages of the Sierra de Grazalema. These brilliant white towns and villages, known as “pueblos blancos,” are set amidst rugged mountains and ancient oak forests. The striking limestone peaks and surprisingly verdant valleys of the Grazalema Natural Park offer an idyllic setting for exploration on foot. Inviting trails wind through pastures and over craggy ridges, providing awe-inspiring views of dramatic landscapes. Keep an eye out for Bonelli’s eagles and griffon vultures gracefully gliding through the skies. This is Andalucia at its wildest and most remote, a true natural treasure.
During our adventure, we will visit the beautiful village of Zahara de la Sierra, perfectly perched atop a hill. We’ll savor the local cuisine, indulging in tapas while sitting in plazas shaded by fragrant orange trees. Our trek will commence in the vibrant city of Ronda, which crowns the famous El Tajo gorge. From there, we’ll traverse the trails of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, passing through renowned Pueblos Blancos and discovering one of Spain’s most breathtaking mountainous regions. Expect jagged limestone peaks, deep gorges, and lush green meadows as we journey through two untamed and secluded valleys, where encounters with deer and griffon vultures are possible. Our route will lead us through the countryside until we reach Grazalema, one of the most picturesque Pueblos Blancos, nestled amidst craggy mountains.
We’ll begin our day by exploring the beautiful and historic town of Ronda, a true gem of Andalucia. Perched in the Serrania de Ronda mountain range at an altitude of 2,500 feet, Ronda’s cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its Moorish past. During the Moorish era, Ronda held great significance, and remnants of this period can still be seen in its architecture, monuments, traditions, and gastronomy. Located atop a towering cliff, Ronda was one of the last Moorish towns to succumb to the reconquest by the Catholic monarchs. We’ll have the opportunity to wander through the old cobbled quarter of the town, known for being the birthplace of modern bullfighting and home to one of Spain’s most significant bullrings. Ronda’s allure captivated Ernest Hemingway, who drew inspiration from its bullfighting culture in his literary works. Our exploration will also include a visit to the restored Arabic Baths and the Madragon Palace, once the residence of Moorish rulers. We’ll then head to the Nuevo Puente (New Bridge), a magnificent structure that divides the town in two, offering breathtaking views across the plains and a jaw-dropping 330-foot drop to the Guadalevin River. Lunch will be enjoyed at Meson Rondeño, where we’ll savor local flavors.
In the afternoon, we’ll embark on an 8-kilometer circular trek (approximately 3.5 hours of easy walking) through the picturesque surrounding countryside, passing by the old mills of the Tajo de Ronda, which are integral to the city’s history. The trek will encompass a maximum elevation of 750 meters and a minimum elevation of 529 meters. As the day draws to a close, we’ll unwind with evening drinks on the rooftop terrace of the Hotel Catalonia Ronda, soaking in the panoramic views. Dinner awaits us at Casa Ortega, ensuring a delightful end to a fulfilling day.
DAY 4: RONDA-BENAOJAN-RONDA
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will set out on an invigorating circular trek from Ronda to Benaojan and back to Ronda, encompassing approximately 6 hours of hiking. Nestled between the imposing limestone massif of the Sierra de Libar and the meandering Guadiaro River, Benaojan exudes the charm of Arab-designed villages, with its narrow streets and whitewashed houses. The name “Benaoján” derives from Arabic, where “Ben-” means “son” and “Oján” is a name, signifying “Children of Oján.”
Before we begin our trek, we will indulge in a satisfying lunch in Benaojan, replenishing our energy for the return journey to Ronda. The picturesque 20-kilometer circular route from Ronda to Benaojan and back unveils breathtaking vistas as we traverse ridges, meander through valleys, and encounter a chapel and several isolated farmhouses along the way. The path meanders through a wooded gully, adding to the enchanting ambiance of our hike. With a maximum elevation of 743 meters and a minimum of 416 meters, this trek promises both exhilarating climbs and serene descents, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the captivating natural beauty of the surroundings.
DAY 5: GRAZALEMA TO ZAHARA DE LA SIERRA
Our journey will commence with a transfer to the town of Grazaelma, a scenic 40-minute ride. From there, we will embark on today’s trek, which concludes in Zahara de la Sierra after approximately 5 hours. The total distance covered will be 11.3 miles, with an ascent of 692 meters and a descent of 317 meters. Both Grazaelma and Zahara de la Sierra vie for the prestigious title of Spain’s most beautiful town, and we will settle this debate over dinner tonight!
The entire Sierra de Grazalema Nature Reserve has been designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and holds the distinction of being Andalucia’s first natural park. Nestled in the heart of the Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema, the picturesque village of Grazalema sits at an elevation of 2,600 feet within the enchanting Sierra del Pinar mountains. Today’s route will lead us through captivating pastoral landscapes, offering a glimpse of the nature reserve’s most captivating and noteworthy sights.
We will traverse ancient drovers’ trails, meandering through cork-oak woods, and admire the verdant valley of Gaidover. For centuries, this valley has been home to water mills producing olive oil, flour, and woollen blankets. Our trek culminates in the dazzling white village of Zahara de la Sierra, perched on a crag at the foot of the Grazalema mountains. From this lofty vantage point, Zahara de la Sierra overlooks the glistening turquoise waters of the Embalse de Zahara reservoir, providing a splendid finale to today’s hike.
Upon arrival, we will leisurely explore the narrow cobbled streets adorned with whitewashed houses and discover charming bars nestled beneath the shade of fragrant orange trees. If our energy levels permit, we may ascend the steps to explore the atmospheric ruins of the Moorish castle, which crowns the mountaintop. Due to its striking mountaintop location, Zahara de la Sierra is often referred to as the ‘Moorish Eagle’s Nest,’ visible from miles around.
Our accommodations for the evening will be at the enchanting Molino del Santo, a delightful rural boutique hotel tucked away alongside a mountain stream. This esteemed establishment has garnered numerous accolades over the years, including the titles of “Best Countryside Hotel in Spain” and “Most Romantic Hotel in Spain.” It has also been a recipient of Trip Advisor Awards for the past five years, cementing its reputation as a top-rated destination.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, we will retire for the night, basking in the tranquil ambiance of Molino del Santo, ready to embark on further adventures in the days to come.
DAY 6: Exploring Seville
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will embark on a transfer from Zahara de la Sierra to the vibrant city of Seville, which will take approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes. Once we have settled in and indulged in a leisurely lunch, we will embark on a private guided walking tour of this culturally rich city.
Seville holds tremendous significance from cultural, political, economic, and artistic perspectives, making it the most prominent city in southern Spain, steeped in history. The year 1492 marked a momentous period for Spain, as it witnessed the fall of Granada, the last Moorish stronghold, to the Catholic monarchs, effectively bringing an end to over 800 years of Muslim rule in the south. It was also the year when Christopher Columbus discovered the “New World,” ushering in Spain’s illustrious Golden Age during the 16th and 17th centuries. This era witnessed the Spanish Empire becoming the largest and wealthiest in the world.
The discovery of the New World presented Spain’s Catholic conquerors with an opportunity to consolidate their triumph over the Moors in a remarkable fashion, and at the heart of Spain’s rapid expansion of dominion and accumulation of wealth stood Seville. Situated on the great Quadalquivir, a 408-mile-long river serving as Andalusia’s central artery, Seville was ideally positioned to capitalize on trade with the newly discovered Americas. As the river reached Seville, ships were unable to venture further inland, making the city a crucial point of contact with Spain’s newfound outposts in the empire. Seville’s importance was solidified in 1503 when a royal decree granted Seville’s Puerto de Indias a trade monopoly on all goods imported from the Americas.
During our walking tour, we will explore various iconic landmarks, including the Real Alcázar de Seville, the gothic-style Cathedral (the resting place of Christopher Columbus), the Giralda Tower, and the Torre del Oro situated by the river. Our exploration will also take us to the Barrio de Triana district, the birthplace of flamenco, the quintessential Spanish dance and music form.
Seville is renowned for its Mudéjar architecture, a fusion of Islamic and Catholic architectural styles. As we meander through the cobblestone streets and sun-drenched squares of Barrio Santa Cruz, also known as the Jewish Quarter, and El Centro, we will immerse ourselves in the city’s rich heritage. Our tour will encompass a visit to the magnificent Alcazar Palace, one of Spain’s most remarkable and historically significant monuments, with its breathtaking gardens leaving a lasting impression.
As night falls, Seville comes alive with vibrant energy. We will savor the evening by attending a Flamenco show followed by a delectable dinner before retiring for the night at the esteemed Hotel Zenit, our accommodation for the evening.
Accommodation: Mountain hut
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 11.25 miles
Ascent: 1,900 feet
Descent: 2,305 feet
Maximum altitude: 3,065 feet
Day 7: SEVILLE TO THE ALPUJARAS
Our next adventure will begin with a transfer from Seville to The Alpujarras, a picturesque journey that will take approximately 2 hours. Along the way, we will make a stop at Torcal de Antequera, a truly unique place boasting surrealistic rock formations. This natural reserve is not only exceptional within Spain but also holds a special place in Europe due to its impressive karst landscapes formed by limestone. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing geology and the diverse flora and fauna of this otherworldly location as we embark on a captivating 2-hour trek through the reserve.
After our exploration of Torcal de Antequera, we will continue our journey with a transfer to the Alpujarras, which will take around 2 hours. Nestled on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, the region of mountain villages known as Las Alpujarras features deep valleys, sheltered gorges, and a descent towards the Mediterranean Sea. The Alpujarras is renowned for its unique microclimate and ecosystem. The terraced farmlands, constantly nourished by the melting snow from the peaks above, create a high-altitude oasis of lush greenery that starkly contrasts with the arid foothills below.
The cultural allure of the region lies in its collection of around fifty villages, which served as the last bastions of Spanish Muslims, also known as Moors. Following the Christian reconquest of Granada, all of the city’s Moors were compelled to convert to Christianity. Those who resisted sought refuge in the hills, eventually settling in this remote and inaccessible area. Persistent pressure from the Christians led to a violent uprising, followed by a royal decree that expelled people of Arab descent from the Kingdom of Granada.
Over the next two days, we will meander through wildflower meadows, traverse olive groves and citrus plantations, and explore Moorish villages where encounters with donkeys are more common than cars, thanks to a network of rustic dirt tracks. Bordered by the majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the north—mainland Spain’s highest mountains—the fertile valleys and dramatic gorges of the Alpujarras create a world distinct from the bustling Mediterranean coast just thirty kilometers to the south. Untouched by the passage of time, the intricate irrigation and terracing systems established by the Moors continue to shape the landscape to this day.
Adding to the region’s allure — including its unique architecture and chimney designs — the variety of scenery is astonishing. At every bend, new surprises await, from steep-sided gorges to fragrant orange groves, and from bubbling streams to Mediterranean landscapes adorned with cacti.
Our accommodation for this leg of the journey will be in one of the charming whitewashed villages that grace this sunny and lesser-known corner of Andalucia. We will spend the night at Hotel Finca Los Llanos and indulge in a delightful dinner at the renowned restaurant Gloria, savoring the local flavors and ambiance that make this region truly special.
Accommodation: Mountain hut
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 6.25 miles
Ascent: 595 feet
Descent: 175 feet
Maximum altitude: 1,460 feet
DAY 8: THE POQUEIRA GORGE
In our opinion, the essence of the Alpujarra region could be summed up in the amazing Poqueira Gorge, a valley shaped by the river that shares its name and originates from the towering peaks of the Sierra Nevada. This scenic trail winds its way through three of the most stunning Pueblos Blancos (white villages) in the area: Pampaneira, Bubión, and Capileira. Each proudly reflects their Moorish heritage through their cuisine, intricate network of irrigation channels, traditional homes, and terraced fields teeming with crops.
Our journey commences at Plaza de la Libertad in Pampaneira, the lowest-lying town among the trio. Following the Royal Road, we ascend above the picturesque white houses adorned with terraos, clay-like grey roofs, and in approximately 45 minutes, we reach Bubión. Here, we have the opportunity to explore artisanal weaving workshops renowned for creating the region’s famous rugs. Departing from Bubión, we are greeted by a collection of fruit trees — including cherry, apple, pear, and peach — growing on the terraces lining the trail.
Finally, we arrive in Capileira, where a labyrinth of narrow streets and tinaos — covered passageways bridging the gap between two houses — creates a distinctive architectural feature. Situated at an elevation of 4,712 feet, Capileira offers incredible views of the snow-capped peaks of Sierra Nevada and the glistening Mediterranean Sea.
During our sojourn through the Alpujarra, we will have the pleasure of savoring the local cuisine, which boasts a rich tapestry of flavors. Indulge in the hearty plato alpujarreño, consisting of slow-fried potatoes, fried eggs, ham, longaniza sausage, black pudding, and fried peppers. Sample the garlic soup, puchero a la gitanilla (gypsy stew) and migas camperas, and enjoy the traditional Moorish sweets. These culinary delights provide a glimpse into the region’s gastronomic heritage, adding another layer of richness to our Alpujarra experience.
Accommodation: Mountain hut
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 11.25 – 12.5 miles, depending on the route
Ascent: 1,230 feet
Descent: 1,225 feet
Maximum altitude: 2,390 feet
DAY 9: ALPUJARAS TAHA VILLAGES TREK
Following a hearty breakfast, we will embark on a circular route encompassing seven charming villages in the Taha area, a journey that will take approximately 4 hours.
After lunch, we will bid farewell to the Alpujarras region and make our way to Granada, a scenic drive of around 1.5 hours. Yet again, this trip will provide breathtaking views of Andalucia’s diverse landscape and the distant Sierra Nevada Mountains.
As the sun begins to set, we will embark on a yummy tapas tour of the city, venturing through lively squares nestled beneath the magnificent Alhambra Palace. Granada is renowned for its exceptional tapas scene, offering a unique experience that sets it apart from any other city in Spain. Additionally, you may seize the opportunity to visit one of the intimate flamenco taverns dotted around the city, where you can witness the nuances of this art form, which differ from the flamenco of Seville.
For our overnight stay, we’ll settle into the beautiful Hotel Vincci Albayzin.
Accommodation: Mountain hut
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 11.25 – 12.5 miles, depending on the route
Ascent: 1,230 feet
Descent: 1,225 feet
Maximum altitude: 2,390 feet
DAY 10: Granada
Today, we embark on a fascinating city tour of Granada. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountain range, Granada displays an unmistakable Moorish influence, being the last city to be reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492, marking the end of the Moors’ rule and their lasting stronghold.
The crown jewel of Granada, the Alhambra, showcases the remarkable architectural flair and craftsmanship of the Moors. With its intricate decor and meticulously designed gardens and water features, the Alhambra is unforgettable.
However, Granada offers more than just the Alhambra. The Albaicin, Spain’s largest and most characteristic surviving Moorish quarter, invites exploration with its steep cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and hidden courtyards adorned with fragrant orange and lemon trees. In the district of Sacromonte, the ancient gypsy quarter, locals still reside in caves that were carved into the hillsides centuries ago. Here, the simple country way of life has endured, as evidenced by the unchanged cobbled lanes, white-and-blue cave dwellings, and the cacti-studded scrubland that lies beyond. The strains of flamenco music often grace the air in the evenings, adding to the ambiance of this historic neighborhood.
As this marks the final night of our journey, we will find a special place to take in the sunset, savoring the magical atmosphere that Granada provides. Our farewell dinner will be at a quaint establisment, La Botilleria. This will be a fitting end to a bucket-list adventure.
Accommodation: Mountain hut
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 10 miles
Ascent: 735 feet
Descent: 945 feet
Maximum altitude: 1,980 feet
DAY 11: Departure
GENERAL INFORMATION
Amazing cuisine awaits!
From the tapas traditions of Granada to the sunny terraces of Seville, the south of Spain is filled to the brim with essential experiences for food lovers. Southern Spain is known the world over for its rich cultural legacy, fascinating history, natural beauty, and incredible climate and you will enjoy all of this. But there’s something else that will make this trip unforgettable: this region´s unique and delicious cuisine, featuring plenty of fresh fish and seafood, as well as typical Andalusian dishes from further inland. It also reflects influences from Muslim, Christian, and Jewish culture.
The Moors (a term used to describe Muslim inhabitants of the Iberian Peninsula) ruled much of what is now Spain for several centuries, leaving an indelible mark on its culture, architecture, and cuisine. They introduced many of the most iconic Spanish ingredients and dishes. But nowhere is this influence more apparent than in Andalusia. Here, the food culture leans heavily on almonds, dates, saffron, cinnamon, and the many fruits and vegetables that the Moors brought to the region during the Al-Andalus period (from the year 711 to 1492). The Golden Age, or Edad de Oro, refers to the period between the late 15th and 17th centuries in Spain. During this time, the inquisition expelled Jews and Muslims from the Iberian Peninsula.
This was a dark time in Spanish history, but it also coincided with the “discovery” of the Americas and therefore abundant trade. Andalusia was the gateway to the New World, and Seville became the most important transatlantic trading center of its time. The constant exchange of products introduced a whole new world of ingredients to southern Spain. Potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, corn, avocado, cocoa, and vanilla, which were previously unknown to Europeans, soon became staples of Andalusian cuisine. Of all the regional dialects in Spain, Andalusian Spanish is the most like Latin American Spanish. This is yet another reflection of Andalusia’s link with the Americas.
About Andalucia's rich history
From its earliest inhabitants — the Iberians and Tartessians, to the Phoenicians, Greeks, and Carthaginians — Andalucia has been an important center of culture and trade. However, it was the Romans who left a significant mark on the region, constructing numerous impressive structures, including the ancient city of Italica (pictured above) near modern-day Seville.
The most profound impact came with the arrival of the Moors in the 8th century, who established Al-Andalus, a flourishing Muslim empire that lasted for centuries. Under their rule, cities like Cordoba and Granada became centers of art, science, and intellectual enlightenment, boasting architectural wonders like the stunning Mezquita and the iconic Alhambra Palace.
The Reconquista in the late 15th century marked the return of Christian rule, which gradually merged the Islamic, Jewish, and Christian influences to create the unique and diverse cultural heritage that defines Andalucia today. With its storied past, the region stands as a living testament to the rich history and interwoven cultural tapestry of Spain.
What will the weather be like?
Autumn in the Andalucia region of Spain brings a delightful shift in weather, creating an inviting and pleasant atmosphere. As the summer heat gradually wanes, the temperatures become milder and more comfortable, ranging from around 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. This makes it an ideal time to explore the region’s stunning landscapes, historic cities, and charming villages without the intensity of the summer sun.
The autumn scenery is equally enchanting, with golden hues blanketing the countryside as the leaves change and the vineyards and olive groves prepare for harvest. Whether you’re strolling through ancient streets or hiking the trails of this amazing itinerary, the weather of Andalucia in autumn provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience.
Andalucia Classic
11 days/10 nightsThis date will proceed with at least four (4) trekkers registered.
October 25 — November 3, 2024
Must book at least 60 days prior to departure. If, for some reason, the minimum number of trekkers required for your preferred departure is not reached, you will be eligible for either a refund or to transfer your deposit to another trek. See details HERE.
