After visiting the prehistoric cave of Ardales and the early Christian rock church of Bobastro, we hike around a reservoir with fantastic views of El Chorro, the Gaitanes Gorge and the famous Caminito del Rey

We start our route by visiting the impressive cave of Ardales. It is a privilege to visit this cave, it is unique with its very well preserved Paleolithic rock paintings, representations of animals in galleries and halls, and a labyrinth of dreamlike formations, columns, stalagmites and stalactites.

From there we drive up to the plateau "Mesas de Villaverde", where we visit the ruins of Bobastro, the only Mozarabic basilica (Christian under Muslim rule) in the area of Al Andalus. It was built at the beginning of the tenth century. The plateau was the capital of the uprising against the Moorish rule of Cordoba and was the retreat of its leader Omar Ben Hafsun.

We continue our tour with a short walk around the reservoir of the Tajo de la Encantada, where we enjoy a spectacular view of the gorge of Los Gaitanes and the famous Caminito del Rey.

Difficulty

 medium - The visit to the cave takes about one and a half hours (1.5 km). Our hike to Bobastro and the reservoir for another 8 km.

Elevations  

↑ ↓ 370 m 

Please bring

Hiking shoes, sun/rain protection, enough water, food  

Pick up 

08.30 Estepona
09.00 Marbella  

Estimated return 

18.00

Price: 75€

Included

Entrance fee to the cave and Bobastro,hiking guide, insurance and transport to starting point and back

Not included

Food and drinks

Reservation required