If you’re starting from Málaga and feel like disconnecting in the heart of nature, there are quite a few natural parks that are worth visiting by car.
In this article, we’ll tell you about the must-visit parks, how to get there, what to see in each one, and some tips to make the most of your visit without complicating things.
Montes de Málaga
Less than 20 minutes by car from Málaga city centre, this park is the closest and one of the lesser-known ones.
Ideal for a morning walk among pine forests, it has well-marked trails like the Cerrado and Picapedrero paths. Bring a snack, as there are well-equipped picnic areas.
There’s an eco-museum with history and culture of the area, perfect if you’re visiting with kids or want something more than just walking. Sundays tend to be busier, but it’s still a very peaceful plan.
Parque Natural de los Montes de Málaga
Although it shares the same name as the previous one, this is a different, larger area with much more vegetation. If you’re into mountain biking or long hikes, this is the place for you.
You can get there by car in less than half an hour from Málaga via the A-7000 road. We recommend bringing water and good footwear, as some trails can be demanding. The landscape changes quite a bit depending on the season, but it’s particularly beautiful in autumn.
El Torcal de Antequera
One of the most spectacular parks due to its rock formations. It’s about an hour’s drive from Málaga via the A-45 and A-7075 roads. There are well-defined trails of various difficulty levels, and the visitor centre provides maps and advice.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and avoid days with heavy fog, as it can be easy to lose your way. If you go early, you’ll be able to park easily and enjoy the silence the place offers.
Parque Natural Sierra de las Nieves
Recently declared a National Park, this spot is worth a full day’s visit. From Málaga, you can get there via the A-357 and A-366 roads in just over an hour. Ronda is nearby, so you could do a double visit.
There are trails like the one to Torrecilla Peak, which are challenging but impressive. You can also enjoy gentler walks from Yunquera or El Burgo.
Parque Natural de los Alcornocales
More well-known in the Cádiz area, but just over an hour and a half from Málaga. Perfect if you want a green environment with shade and less heat.
The Jimena de la Frontera area is highly recommended and has easy trails suitable for the whole family. Ask about “La Sauceda,” an old settlement now converted into rural accommodation, where you can also enjoy circular routes.
Parque Natural Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama
This park is huge and covers parts of Málaga and Granada. From the capital, you can get there in an hour via the A-7 motorway to Nerja.
From there, one of the most popular trails starts: the El Cielo path, offering wide-open views.
You can also visit the Chillar River, famous for its route through canyons and water (be careful with footwear).
It’s best to avoid weekends if you want to avoid crowds.
Desfiladero de los Gaitanes y Caminito del Rey
A classic among classics.
Getting there from Málaga is easy (1 hour via the A-357), but you’ll need to book in advance if you want to do the Caminito.
It’s not dangerous, it’s well-prepared, but it can be intimidating if you’re afraid of heights.
If you don’t want to do the full route, there are alternative trails from Ardales or El Chorro that are also worth exploring.
Bring water and a cap, as there are stretches with little shade from the sun.
Laguna de Fuente de Piedra
For something different, this lagoon is ideal. It takes about an hour from Málaga via the A-45 and A-92 roads. If you enjoy birdwatching, especially flamingos, this is the place for you.
There are short, easy circular routes, great for going with kids.
Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema
One of the greenest and most diverse parks in all of Andalusia.
Although it’s a bit further (around two hours from Málaga), it’s worth it if you’re in the mood for a full day of nature. The routes from Grazalema or El Bosque are well-known.
Some of these routes require prior permission, such as the Pinsapar trail, so it’s advisable to check before you go. Bring food and water, as there are few services inside the park.
Sierra de Mijas
Between Málaga and Fuengirola, this massif is a surprise for those who don’t know it.
You can access it from the village of Mijas, where there are well-marked routes and stunning views. You can complete a circular route in a morning and return to the village for lunch.
There are trails like the Bola and Puerto Colorado routes, which are highly recommended if you’re looking for something that combines exercise with great photo opportunities.
Sierra de Huma
Very close to the Caminito del Rey, this mountain range is a good alternative if you couldn’t get tickets for the gorge.
From Álora or El Chorro, you can take paths that lead up to Huma Peak, with quite a bit of elevation gain.
It’s best to bring a GPS track or downloaded map, as some routes are not well-marked. It’s a good option for experienced hikers.
Final Tip for Organising Your Route through the Natural Parks of Málaga
If you have a car, getting from Málaga to any of these parks is easy.
Still, it’s advisable to plan ahead, especially if you want to avoid surprises with parking or need permits for any routes.
And if you want to stay close to nature without complications, Sky Sea Holidays makes it easy for you.
Book your accommodation with us and get ready to enjoy Málaga’s most stunning landscapes in complete peace of mind.
