Sports and Outdoor Activities in Malaga: Hiking, Cycling, and Watersports
Malaga is the perfect stop if you’ve come to sunny Andalusia for an active holiday. The magical valleys and mountainous terrain are a godsend for hiking and cycling, and plenty of beaches offer opportunities for water activities.
Below you will find great sports spots where you can combine wellness with relaxation in Malaga in an exciting way.
Fascinating hiking
The best way to fully enjoy the nature of southern Andalusia while in Malaga is to go hiking. This region is known for its mesmerizing hiking trails far beyond the borders of Spain.
Among hundreds of routes, it is easy to choose the one that suits you in terms of complexity and duration, even if you are an inexperienced traveller.
Cerro Lucero
This route is a real test of endurance: it stretches for 10 kilometres (about 33 thousand feet) and leads to the high mountain Sierra de la Almijara.
On the way, you can enjoy flowering meadows and relax near the surviving fortresses of the Civil Guard, plunging into the warlike history of the middle of the last century.
The route starts in the town of Játar, equipped with road signs, so it will be difficult to get lost. As a reward for the journey, you will receive a breathtaking view of the region from the top of the mountain.
The best time to travel is from spring to autumn. At this time, the trail is buried in lush vegetation and pleases the eye with bright colours.
Guadalmina Canal Trail
If steep trails and long walks intimidate you, check out one of the locals’ favourite trails, the Guadalmina Canal Trail. As the name implies, the road runs along the Guadalmina irrigation canal and ends at the river of the same name.
An ancient canal and a narrow wooden bridge along the Angosturas Gorge will create an atmosphere of peace. This route is about half as long as Cerro Lucero, and this winding trail has no climbs.
If you meet exciting sights along the way, but your goal for today is different – use the opportunity to turn back. Don’t worry -you don’t have to walk!
The best option would be to use the car hire in Malaga Spain services for an excursion. When travelling in a group, it is better to consider the 7 seater cars for hire options. Avoid the limited choice during the tourist season by booking 7 seater car hire Malaga airport in advance for a great price.
Cycling in Malaga
Cycling holidays in Spain are a favourite pastime for locals and tourists. On the terrain, you will find many routes of varying difficulty for your type of bike, and you can also make your trip informative by passing through historic places. Among the scenic itineraries of attention are:
- Ruta De La Pasa – the raisin path is not called that way for anything: driving along this circular, you will see enormous facilities for drying raisins in the hot sun. The road is not easy, but it combines mountains, sea, and Moorish style, which makes it very atmospheric.
- Almogía – the path to the nearby town, whose name translates as “good” – lies on the ideal road surface and is suitable for a relaxing stroll through the picturesque landscapes.
- El Chorro – the route runs along the orchard (it provides Malaga with fresh products daily), the castle of Álora, and ends with the El Chorro reservoir. Los Gaitanes Gorge, where it is located, is ideal for extreme cycling.
- Benaque-Vallejos – a relatively short and easy route (only 3 hours), but this time you will spend in the tranquillity of the picturesque countryside. There are several steep climbs along the way, though they are short. The culmination of the route will be the mysterious half-abandoned village of Benaque.
- Puerto Del León – the route passes through the Montes de Málaga Natural Park: in addition to the marvellous air, you will find many observation points with views of the surroundings. You don’t need to be an athlete to beat Puerto Del León, and the shade of the trees will protect you from the scorching sun.
Watersports in Malaga
Jet Ski
In the Malaga region, Jet Ski can be considered the most popular water sport. It is available on almost every beach on the Costa del Sol and is suitable for an adrenaline-fueled activity for two or a group.
Be on the crest of a wave and feel a surge of vivacity and strength on a Jet Ski ride. Such pleasure is available for all ages and does not require special skills.
Flyboarding
Flyboarding is an exciting activity that will test your balance while flying over the sea. This extreme sport was invented 11 years ago in France and has become very popular in Spain today.
Flyboard was intended for high-speed competitions and acrobatic performances. However, in Malaga, you can merely enjoy flying over the water thanks to the powerful water jets from the board under your feet.
Kayaks and surfing
You can find spots and equipment for rent on the beaches of Nerja, as these are the most comfortable coves for exercise.
Explore the coast of Malaga with the breeze, choosing a kayak model that suits your experience. Paddle Surf is perfect for a company.
Banana boats
Banana boats are a godsend for families as the only challenge is to hold on tight while being carried by a motorboat.
Despite the apparent simplicity of the exercise, you use most muscle groups to maintain balance. During the summer, you can find this activity on most beaches.
Conclusion
Discover Malaga in vibrant colours, combining wellness and leisure activities. In the city, you will find many options for exciting sports for every taste.
Plan your trip, choose routes according to your abilities, and don’t be afraid to try new things.
