Current as of: December 26, 2024 - 20:22
White Villages of Andalucia Walk Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: Spain
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Easy & Moderate
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 15+
- Trip Code: W07AA
Trip Overview
You walk through timeless white washed villages, along flower decked paths – poppies, wild iris, and pink oleander – and there’s a good chance of spotting golden eagles soaring overhead.
The Finca el Cerrillo is a firm Headwater favourite, this holiday combines gentle walking to the nearby white villages of Sedella, Salares and Competa with a local wine tasting, visits to the caves at Nerja and Nerja’s famous Balcon de Europa. On your free day, perhaps take a trip to in Malaga (payable locally), the birthplace of Picasso or enjoying a day relaxing at the Finca’s pool. The week ends with a spectacular 4×4 drive to Loma del Daire with views of the nearby peaks and distant views to Nerja and the sea.
Our experienced walking leader will accompany you on all walks. Some of our paths will take us off the beaten track in the Sierra de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park and on other days, we’ll be exploring the pretty white villages and olive-planted hillsides that date back to Moorish times. The walks are short, typically allowing for free time in the afternoon to relax in the beautiful grounds of the Finca.
Did you know you can travel by train to this trip? Find out more here
At a Glance
- 7 nights single-centre accommodation
- 5 Days walking
- All meals
- Management by local hotelier
- Services of an experienced walking guide
- Bodega tour
- Nerja Caves entrance
- Fully inclusive: some dates with no single supplement
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Stay in a wonderful 200-year-old olive mill with pool and beautiful gardens
- Superb hosts and walking leader
- Exceptional cuisine; all meals included
- Moorish white villages, olive orchards, old mule tracks and panoramic vistas
- Nerja Caves and the Balcon de Europa
- Spectacular 4x4 drive into the Sierra de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park
Is This Trip for You?
Classification: Guided Group
Average daily distance on move on days: 5.2km (4.1miles).
No. of days Walking: 5
Terrain: Walks are along mule paths and tacks with some ascents and descents.
This holiday combines gentle walking to the nearby white villages of Sedella, Salares and Competa with visits to the caves at Nerja. The week ends with a spectacular 4X4 drive to Loma del Daire with views of the nearby peaks and distant views to Nerja and the sea. Our experienced walking leader will accompany you on all walks. Some of our paths will take us off the beaten track in the Sierra de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park and on other days, we’ll be exploring the pretty white villages and olive-planted hillsides that date back to Moorish times. The walks are short, typically allowing for free time in the afternoon to relax in the beautiful grounds of the Finca.
Adult min age: 15
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Canillas De Albaida
- End City: Canillas De Albaida
Flight Inclusive
- Start City: London
- End City: London
Land Only Itinerary
Arrive in Canillas De Albaida
Arrive at your hotel in Canillas de Albaida. (Staying at the Finca el Cerrillo, Half Board)
Competa Walk
A 5-minute transfer takes us to the church of Santa Ana in Canillas de Albaida from where we head towards Competa passing smallholdings with avocados, maize, artichoke and citrus trees. We stop at the Bodegas Almijara where Maria will show us around and explain about wine making in the region – of course you’ll get to enjoy a taste! It’s then on to Competa for a tapas lunch in the lively main square, Plaza Almijara. We wind our way back to Santa Ana Church and either take the transfer back to the hotel or continue walking along the mule path from the village back to the Finca. (Staying at the Finca el Cerrillo, Half Board)
Sedella Walk
Today we head to the white village of Sedella where a track takes us above the village passing Roman terraces, still farmed today. We head up through almond groves to the Molino de Montosa, beneath the imposing La Maroma (2,096m), the highest peak in the region. On a clear day we can see North Africa’s Rif Mountains. It’s big bird country here too with regular sightings of griffon vultures and other birds of prey. After stopping for a picnic we head back down to Sedella and enjoy a cool drink in Salvador’s bar before heading back for a lazy afternoon by the pool or in the library. (Staying at the Finca el Cerrillo, Half Board)
Free Day
There is the option of an excursion to the beautiful city of Malaga (payable locally) where you have the day to explore at your leisure. Your starting point is the Castillo de Gibralfaro, a Moorish fortress with spectacular views to the port and town below. From here venture down into the old town where you can explore the Alcazaba, the Moorish Palace next to the Roman ruins. The 16th century cathedral is in the heart of the old town and a short distance from here is the Picasso museum with over 200 of the artist’s paintings on display. (Staying at the Finca el Cerrillo, Half Board)
Salares Walk
We head along a track through olives and citrus groves before dropping down past the bat house with resident horseshoe bats. We’ll then continue alongside woodland, listening out for the river running beneath us and watching out for golden orioles. We enter Salares over the Arabic bridge which provides a great photo opportunity! There is an interesting church, Santa Ana, still bearing an old Moorish minaret. Lunch is taken at Theo’s bar before a transfer back to the Finca. (Staying at the Finca el Cerrillo, Half Board)
Nerja Caves and Gorge
A 45-minute transfer takes us to the spectacular Cuevas de Nerja where a 750m walkway takes us through a series of caves to a large column 32 metres high. We then head back out to start our walk along the Barranco de Maro. Wildflowers line the gorge with amazing rocky overhangs providing shady spots. After lunch explore Nerja town where you can people-watch from the Balcon de Europa, a rocky promontory made famous by King Alfonso XII. Relax on the beach or head to Nerja Museum to discover more about the caves. It’s then back to the Finca before dinner in a local restaurant. (Staying at the Finca el Cerrillo, Half Board)
Loma Del Daire
Today is all about views – a 4×4 drive takes us into the Sierra de Alhama Natural Park where we stop at a viewpoint – a stunning vista of jagged peaks and the coast. The drive and the views continue until we reach the start point for the walk. We begin with a gentle climb surrounded by cistus, rosemary, thyme and an abundance of wildflowers. The trail flattens and contours round the mountain, below Cerro Verde, before meeting up with the historic silk trail taking us into Granada Province and back to the viewpoint. (Staying at the Finca el Cerrillo, Half Board)
Leave Canillas De Albaida
Ascents, descents and distances: All ascents, descents and distances listed in the daily itinerary have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. However, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these Trips Notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Hotel
The Finca el Cerrillo is an absolute gem of a place to stay. There are 13 individually styled en-suite rooms. The living areas include a wonderfully atmospheric beamed lounge – cool in summer and kept cosy on winter nights with a blazing log fire, dining room, small library and ‘honesty’ bar. The terraced gardens, with 100-year-old carob and palm trees, surround both sunny and shaded patios with comfy seating areas. The pool affords stunning views of the valley below and the pretty Moorish village of Archez with its 13th century Moorish tower.
Single supplement from £ 341
Food & Drink
All meals
Andalucía’s base their cuisine on traditional fresh fayre. Onions, tomatoes and peppers feature liberally, simply cooked in olive oil and served as a starter seasoned with local herbs and accompanied by good fresh bread. Dinner often consists of Fish (pescado) or meat (carne) served grilled or deep-fried in olive oil. A good alternative for vegetarians is ensalada de garbanzos y tomate – a delicious salad of chickpea and tomatoes. Local specialities depend on the region: in the mountains, you’ll be offered delicious hams and game, down by the coast seafood will be more prominent.
Tapas was invented in this region and several different mini snacks can make a cheap, fun way to try the various dishes on offer. If you want larger portions, ask for ‘raciones’. Seville is the best place to tapear – tour the many bars sampling their tapas!
Transport
Some walks start and end at the hotel; on other days the hotelier will arrange transfers to take you to/from the start/end points. They provide transport two evenings, to take you to dinner in local restaurants. It is possible to arrange optional transfers to take you into Málaga on your free day (payable locally).
Weather & Seasonality
Spring generally enjoys pleasant daytime temperatures (12-23ºC) and a little cooler in the evenings. There is the chance of some rain, which then offers views of beautiful spring flowers. Summer months are hot and dry with daytime temperatures of around 21-35ºC, dropping to between 17 and 25ºC at night. Autumn brings cooler weather although it is still fairly dry. The possibility of rain is more likely in winter months but temperatures stay mild in the daytime, becoming cooler after sunset.
Weather Charts
Joining Instructions
Alternative Air Travel
Alternative flights, onward rail to your holiday area, and connecting private transfers can be arranged from most UK airports. If you would like to use one of the many ‘low cost’ airlines, we can book these on your behalf (£30 admin fee per person). We can also book UK shuttles to connect with your onward flight, please call for details and prices.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Canillas De Albaida
Location end: Canillas De Albaida
Transfer Details
Transfers
Transfers to and from Malaga airport are available for a supplement.
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Comfortable walking shoes or boots for sightseeing and walking
- Small daypack (25-30 litres capacity)
- Refillable water bottle (1-2 litres capacity at least)
- Waterproofs
- Sun hat & sun cream
Optional Equipment
- Swimsuit
- Umbrella
- Walking poles
Reading List
- Lonely Planet Guide to Andalucia
- Rough Guide to Andalucia
- Andalucia, Michael Jacobs
- Moorish Spain, Richard Fletcher
Practical Information
Visa
Spain
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Spain. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/spain
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Spain.html
Vaccinations and Health
Spain
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
Spain's time zone: Europe/Madrid (UTC +01:00)
Electricity
Spain's electricity: Plug type F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Spain's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
ATMs are widely available, but we recommend taking some Euros cash with you in case you can’t get to a bank at the start of the trip.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
You will need spending money for meals not included in the itinerary and all drinks. We suggest €25 per day to cover a few drinks if not then €10 per day. On the days where lunch or dinner is not included expect to spend €10-€15 for lunch and €15-€35 for dinner.
Sustainability and Impact
At Exodus, we thrive on travel, and we firmly believe our adventures should help destinations thrive too.
As a certified B Corp, we aim to take a ‘nature positive’ approach across our adventures, including carbon and waste reduction, animal welfare and support for rewilding and conservation. We also seek to contribute to local communities, providing economic opportunity and empowerment.
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Learn more about our Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan, including our commitment to rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller
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Read about the work of the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation.
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Find out how you can travel more sustainably here.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by Exodus should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by Exodus based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.