Walking in Andalucia

In the Spring and Autumn Collett’s offers dedicated walking weeks in beautiful Andalucia. This is the ideal location for walkers wanting to escape the UK’s unpredictable weather and experience the rich culture and traditions of this lovely part of southern Spain.

Compared to our other walking destinations, these holidays are run somewhat differently. They are 7 night breaks starting and ending on a Saturday, and guests walk in groups, as self-guiding is not offered due to the nature of the terrain and way-marking. The walking here is not as extensive nor as high-level as the Alps or other high mountain ranges, but it is wild and beautiful and a wonderful challenge in its own right.

The true uniqueness of these holidays, is not only the rugged walking, often on animal tracks and old smuggling routes, but the rich culture, history, flora and fauna, excellent food and wine that are an intrinsic part of this area of Spain and felt throughout the week. This really is a wonderful cultural experience, rather than your usual walking holiday.

Walking in Andalucia with Collett’s

Our guests have the choice of staying in two accommodation options. The Posada La Plaza is a converted 16th century convent, right in the heart of the village, and full of rustic character and simple Spanish charm. The Villa La Posada is a beautiful villa just a few minutes’ walk from the Posada at the edge of the village. Newly built and furnished in a traditional style, the rooms have uninterrupted views of the countryside and there is a small swimming pool on the terrace below. Daily continental breakfast and an exceptional three course dinner with wine (except Wednesday) is taken in the Restaurant La Plaza, across the village square from the Posada. The owner Gustavo, and his staff pride themselves on the quality of their hospitality and food, local produce and flavours. We often eat al fresco in the plaza when weather permits, and end the week with an impressive BBQ night.

We offer 5 walking days, with 2 group walk options each day, organised and hosted by a member of our staff. One is a High Level or Harder Walk, with an ascent in the region of 600m – 800m and 4-5 hours of walking. These venture into the mountains on higher trails amidst rugged landscapes. The other option is an Easier-Moderate Walk, with an ascent of 200m – 500m and 3-4 hours of walking. These pass through farmhouses and pretty whitewashed hilltop villages and take on some easier higher level paths. The walking is marked by an abundance of wildlife, such as chamois, birds of prey and lizards, as well as hillsides overflowing with orange, avocado and almond trees. The first day’s walks have the option of ending the day at a local Bodega, a Spanish winery, where guests can sample locally produced wines, accompanied by local cheeses, meats and fruits. Included in the cost of the holiday is a return transfer from Malaga Airport, as well as any transport needed for the organised walk days.

Our local day-off is Wednesday and there is no organised walking on this day nor evening meal. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore further afield, perhaps discovering the delights of Granada and the historic hilltop Moorish palace, the Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or heading to the coast and visiting the Nerja caves, an impressive 5km network of caverns and caves and hosting the world’s largest stalagmite. Equally you are welcome to stay locally, doing a short walk or relaxing by the pool with a book.

Thank you to Jan Pye and her walking group members who holidayed with us last Autumn, for these beautiful photos, which document their entire week’s experience.