South Spain
To many, southern Spain is synonymous with hot weather, built-up beach resorts and indulgent holidays. Not exactly features that speak of walking endeavours. But Spain has many faces and it turns out that the south has a number of highly appealing walking regions.
Las Alpujarras is a region in Andalucia located about 50 kilometres south of Granada. The region lies on the slopes of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada and is known for its white-washed, Moorish-influenced villages. There are many walking tracks through the valleys and ravines that separate the villages and enticing opportunities to climb higher into the Sierra Nevada.
In the vicinity of Seville, there are two national parks based around mountain ranges that also feature white-washed villages:
The Sierra de Grazalema is a mountain range located in Grazalema Natural Park, 100 kilometres south-east of Seville. The walking showcases dramatic gorges, jagged limestone peaks and fertile river valleys.
The Sierra de Aracena lies 100 kilometres north-west of Seville, again in a national park bearing its name. The walking here is easier than in the Sierra de Grazalema. The hills are more undulating and there is more farmland and woodland. The area is known for its its appealing regional cuisine.
Another delightful walking region is provided by the Costa Blanca Mountains. These mountains are inland of the popular Mediterranean resort town of Alicante. The tourist bustle subsides quickly as you enter the mountains. The limestone mountains rise steeply and the walking features pine forests, lush valleys and villages that have changed little over centuries.
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Some of the best walks in southern Spain are set out below. Click the buttons for further information.
Las Alpujarras on the GR7
The GR7 is one of Spain’s epic walking routes, running from Spain’s southern-most point to the Pyrenees. The trail passes through the heart of Las Alpujarras and is a wonderful way of experiencing this fascinating region.
Sierra de Grazalema
From Zahara de la Sierra to Ronda (via Grazalema). This walk is about 68 kilometres long and is generally done in four days. With a couple of extra days, you could also taste some of the day walks from Zahara and Grazalema.
Sierra de Aracena
From Los Marines to Alajar (via Cortelazor). The route between these villages is only 36 kilometres but each of Cortelazor and Alajar warrants an extra night for the day walks accessible from the village. So, three to five days can be spent very happily.