Trekking in the Sierra Nevada: Ruta Oriental

Start your journey with a flight to Málaga, a vibrant metropolis on the Costa del Sol. Depending on your arrival time, you may get a chance to explore this city, known as the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Enjoy a welcome dinner in the evening and rest at the hotel for the night.

Embark on an exploration tour through Málaga's historic old town before transferring to Granada. Here, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the Alhambra, a majestic fortress complex. Wander through the city to the grand cathedral with the royal chapel, explore Arabic-style bazaars, and visit the old Moorish quarter of Albaicín. End the day with a spectacular view of the Alhambra from the San Nicolás viewpoint. Overnight stay at a hotel in one of the city's most beautiful squares.

Take a bus trip to the south side of the Sierra Nevada, to the Alpujarras, a largely unspoiled mountain region. Your first destination is the valley of the Río Poqueira. Start your hike from the white village of Pampaneira, following the route of the 'pueblos blancos' through the river valley, offering views of Spain's highest peaks. Spend the night in a family-run mountain guesthouse.

Experience the Moorish legacy in Andalusia with a circular hike to the upper water channel (acequia alta) up to approx. 2000 m. Enjoy the panoramic view of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, surrounded by untouched nature and rushing mountain streams. Hike back to Capileira on old shepherd's paths and forest tracks. Optionally, you can climb the Mulhacén, the highest peak on the Iberian Peninsula, with a local mountain guide. Overnight stay in the same mountain guesthouse.

Begin your ascent with a fantastic panoramic view of the Poqueira gorge and its villages. Pass through holm oaks, circle a mighty mountain ridge before descending to Pitres. Walk along old village paths to Busquístar and take the bus to Trevélez, known for its 'jamón serrano' (air-dried ham). Overnight stay in a hotel.

Enjoy a hike in the valley of the Río Trevélez, past rushing streams and along mountain paths. This idyllic journey offers undisturbed nature experiences: lots of water, greenery, few people, and plenty of peace and quiet! Take a siesta by the river before returning to your hotel for the night.

On the stage from Trevélez to Cádiar, gain altitude once again. The ascent through holm oak and pine forests rewards you with fantastic views of Trevélez and the Sierra Nevada. After a lunch break, descend through idyllic villages into the Guadalfeo valley with its many almond and olive plantations. Overnight stay in a mountain hotel.

Drive towards the Mediterranean and stop in the Desierto de Tabernas, the only desert in Europe. This lunar landscape has inspired many film directors. Follow in the footsteps of Clint Eastwood and other stars through the wild, rugged canyons. Then, take a bus ride to San José in the Cabo de Gata Nature Park. Overnight stay in a hotel.

Spend the day in the Cabo de Gata UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Nature Park, located in the south-east of Andalusia. The volcanic landscape, which is many millions of years old, is still considered an insider tip and fascinates visitors with its unique shape. Hike along a sparsely populated stretch of coastline with pristine bays and dream beaches. Overnight stay in the same hotel.

Enjoy the Mediterranean flair, the crystal-clear water, and the beautiful natural beaches of San José today. Relax, swim, and soak up the sun. Alternatively, take a stroll along the marina, stopping off at a cozy café. You can also take an individual excursion to the lively provincial capital of Almería, where you can visit the important fortress (Alcazaba). The bus will take you back in comfort. Overnight stay in the same hotel.

After breakfast, travel back to Málaga. Spend the afternoon exploring the city at your own pace. Overnight stay in a hotel.

A transfer will take you from the hotel in Málaga to the airport today, marking the end of your journey. From here, you will start your individual journey home or onwards.