Andalusia, a region located in the southern part of Spain, is a place of great beauty and cultural significance. The area is known for its stunning beaches, picturesque villages, and delicious food. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Andalusia and explore some of its most iconic destinations, starting with the city of Malaga.
Malaga is a city full of history and culture, with a mix of traditional and modern elements. The city is home to several famous landmarks, such as the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress and palace, and the Roman Theatre. The city centre is also home to several museums, including the Picasso Museum, which showcases some of the artist’s most famous works.
The coastal town of Malaga along the Mediterranean Sea is a must-visit place for beach lovers. Started the day with a stroll through the city from the hostel where I had stayed (TOC Hostels). A great place to stay if you plan to visit Malaga.
The next stop was Alcazaba of Malaga and Castle Gibralfaro. These two ancient fortresses offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the region and are a must-see for any traveller visiting Malaga. It is a mini hike on a steep mountain, but worth the views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city.
Entry costs 5.50€ and can be purchased at the entrance. For guided tours, it costs 10€ and should be booked well in advance.
The fortress is a maze of courtyards, gardens, and towers that offer stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. I spent hours exploring the fortress, taking in the beautiful architecture and the views.
One can also see Malaga’s Bullring from the castle top.
Around the afternoon, my next stop was the jewel of the Renaissance era, the Cathedral of Malaga. Also known as the Cathedral of Incarnation, it is a Gothic structure dating back to the 16th Century. One can enjoy the ornate decors, stained-glass windows and the rooftop.
Tickets for the cathedral can be purchased online and it’s better to buy them in advance with a rooftop visit. This costs 12€. Getting to the rooftop is a climb of 200 stairs accompanied by security personnel.
Nerja caves
After exploring the fortress by midday, I decided to take a trip from Malaga to Nerja Caves. The caves are located in the town of Nerja, on the eastern coast of Andalusia. There are bus service from Malaga to Nerja and then a taxi from the bus stop to Nerja Cueva.
Note: Keep in mind to check the bus timings.
The caves are a natural wonder and a must-see destination. The caves are home to several underground chambers, each with its unique characteristics. The caves are also home to several underground lakes and rivers. The caves were truly a highlight of my trip and I highly recommend visiting them if you have time at your disposal.
After returning from the caves, it was time to explore the city, visit Picasso’s Museum and find the statue of the man himself.
Caminito Del Rey
On day 2, I decided to take a hike in Caminito Del Rey, a famous hiking trail that runs through the El Chorro gorge. The trail is famous for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain. One can reach here by taking a train from Malaga and getting off at El Chorro station.
The hike was challenging, but the views were worth it. The trail runs along the edge of the gorge and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The final stretch is a walk through a suspension bridge 100m above the gorge with winds shaking the bridge ferociously.
After the hike, it was time for me to leave for my next adventure- Granada
