Hiking near Málaga: Discover the Authentic Sierra de Tejeda

Hiking in Authentic Spain

Sierra de Tejeda? Among hikers, Málaga is best known for the Caminito del Rey. But there are so many more—and less crowded—Nature reserves to discover around Málaga that are just as spectacular. The Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama Nature Reserve—what’s in a name?—is just an hour’s drive from Málaga and offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and tranquility.

Among other things, you’ll find the “little brother” of the Caminito del Rey here. Read why you’ll want to visit this spot if you’re looking to combine your city trip with—or swap it for—the tranquility of nature. Would you like to go on a organized hiking trip to the Sierra de Tejeda with lodging, transfers, and hiking routes included? Read more below.

Spectacular cliffs and white villages in the Sierra de Tejeda Nature Reserve

The region—also known as Axarquía (from the Moorish term meaning “land to the east”)—is a breathtaking mountain range dotted with characteristic white villages—pueblos blancos—east of Málaga. The mountainous region is nestled between Málaga and the Sierra Nevada. The highest peak, Maroma (2,080 m), is located in the western part of the region, which belongs to the province of Málaga.

Here you’ll find deep ravines, spectacular cliffs, steep mountains with streams, coastal caves, and authentic Moorish villages. You can choose the coastal town of Nerja as your base, but if you want to experience the real Spain, opt for the authentic town of Cómpeta.

Walking in Málaga: Slow travel in Southern Spain

You’re 50 km from Málaga and just 15 km from the beaches. But you’re also away from mass tourism here. You’ll run into hikers and cyclists as well as locals, but you’ll still get to experience the real, authentic Spain.

Cómpeta, an hour from Málaga: a trip back in time

Cómpeta, the pearl of Axarquia, is a charming pueblo blanco. This white village serves as the gateway to the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama Natural Park. It lies at an altitude of about 600 meters and is an ideal starting point for exploring the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama Nature Reserve on foot. The town showcases the region’s rich Moorish past. Narrow, winding streets adorned with flowers, traditional Spanish architecture, and a renowned wine production scene featuring an annual grape harvest festival. It’s also a very lively little town with bars and restaurants. Cómpeta has been a favorite among artists and art lovers for years. You’ll also find many studios and art galleries there, along with an annual Art Walk in September.

Sierra de Tejeda Nature Park near Málaga: a hiker’s paradise

The nature park surrounding Cómpeta is a beautiful area for hiking. Rugged terrain, deep valleys, and pristine forests make this nature reserve a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Sierra de Tejeda, with its jagged peaks and cliffs, offers beautiful hiking trails with views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Hiking in Málaga: Waterfalls and Wildlife in the Sierra

The Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama Nature Park offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You can explore caves, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife during your hikes in the Sierra de Almijara.

Birdwatching in the Sierra de Tejeda

The park is a true paradise for birdwatchers. You can spot a variety of bird species, including eagles, vultures, kestrels, and other birds of prey. The park’s diverse habitats make it a hotspot for birdwatching. Here you’ll find more information about the best spots for birdwatching and the birds you might encounter there.

Wildlife Spotting in the Sierra de Tejeda

In addition to birds, the park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife. Along with ibex, wild boars, and foxes, you’ll find many other animals in the area. Early morning and late evening are the best times to spot wildlife.

Hiking Trails in the Sierra de Tejeda, the “little brother” of the Caminito del Rey and the Rio Chillar

The nature park features an extensive network of well-marked hiking trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels. You can explore trails that take you through rugged terrain, deep valleys, and lush forests. Here are a few popular routes in the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama:

• Sendero del Río Higuerón: This trail starts in Frigiliana, next to the ruins of Lizar Castle.
• The Rio Chillar in Los Cahorros: a wonderfully refreshing hike along the river. This route starts from the southern coast in Los Cahorros Natural Park. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Competa. Parking is free here. You’ll walk upstream along the riverbed, but you won’t stay dry. You can continue even further to Vado de los Patos, 8 km from Los Cahorros. This is a somewhat more challenging route, covering a total distance of 16 km.
• The challenging climb to Maroma, the highest mountain in the region. The mountain’s peak is 2,066 meters high and a challenge for serious hikers. This mountain is located in the province of Málaga. You can start the route from Cómpeto. It’s a strenuous hike. Reaching the summit is rewarded with a view of Mulhacén, Spain’s highest mountain.
• El Saltillo—the Caminito del Rey’s “little brother”—starts in Canillas de Aceituno. The highlight of this hike is the suspension bridge. It’s spectacular both in terms of its construction and the view of the deep gorge and surrounding mountains.

Hiking Trails Near Cómpeta

• Hiking trail from Cómpeta to Canillas de Albaida (10 km). This route is well-marked and suitable for all skill levels.
• The Ruta de los Molinos: also known as the Roman Bridge Trail. Starting in Canillas de Albaida, the trail’s starting point, you’ll walk past rolling hills and tranquil riverbeds.
• The Rio Patamalara: small gorges, waterfalls, the ghost town of El Acebuchal, and, of course, the river itself. A challenging route.

Would you prefer to hike with a guide or have your route organized for you? Here you’ll find more information about organizations active in the region.

Canyoning in the Sierra de Tejeda

For adventurers, the nature park also offers opportunities for canyoning. Exploring the canyons and gorges is an exciting way to experience the park’s rugged landscapes.

How do you get to the Sierra de Tejeda?

Unfortunately, public transportation in this area isn’t yet ideal. However, there is a bus to Cómpeta from the central station in Málaga. On weekdays, it runs three times a day in each direction; on weekends, twice a day. The trip takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. There are frequent trains and buses from the Málaga airport to the city center; the trip takes about 20 minutes. However, the easiest way to get to the area is by (rental) car from Málaga. The most convenient way to rent a car in Málaga is through Sunnycars. . It’s about an hour’s drive to Cómpeta. Read more here about trains in and to Spain.

When is the best time to go hiking in the Sierra de Tejeda?

In Cómpeta, the sun shines 300 days a year, with an average temperature of 20 °C. In fact, you can visit here year-round for a hiking vacation. In the summer, it’s warm but not humid. It’s actually quite appealing to explore this area outside of peak season, especially for hikers. In January, temperatures can reach 20°C.

A 7-day hiking vacation in the Sierra de Tejeda?

Would you like to go hiking in this area and let us take care of your accommodations, transfers, and guided routes? Then check here for our 7-day hiking trip to the Sierra de Tejeda in partnership with the boutique hotel Malaga Hills in Cómpeta.

Here you can read more about another lesser-known region in Spain, Navarre.

Hiking in the Sierra de Tejeda on a map