Sierras to the Sea
7 Night guided walking holiday
through mountains & white villages
to the Mediterranean coast
“Thank you for another wonderful holiday. It was a fantastic week and the walks were truly spectacular”
This unique 7 night guided walking holiday follows the length of the south facing slopes of the Sierra Almijara connecting pretty white villages on the way. It is a revised version of our long running Silk Trail holiday staying in Cómpeta and using minibus and 4WD transfers to and from trailheads. The walk starts from the mountain villages of Sedella or Canillas de Aceituno in the west and ends on a Medierranean beach of the eastern Costa del Sol. Each of the five sections of the linear trail are ‘classic’ walks’ in their own right with great scenery, views and interest. The walks are rated as Level 2 with the offer of more strenuous options on some days, including an exciting new Day 2 walk crossing the stunning Almachares Gorge. The following itinerary may be amended and it is possible to opt out of any of the walks. Few of our guests choose to do so.
Itinerary & Walks
Day 1 – Arrival day
The transfer from Malaga airport to Cómpeta takes just over hour by road. Depending on arrival time we will offer an afternoon stroll, a great way to get the legs moving and the journey out of the system. In the evening, welcome drinks on our roof terrace with time to discuss the program and walks for the week ahead. This is followed by dinner in one of our favourite restaurants close to the house
Day 2 – Canillas Aceituno to Sedella/Salares
The transfer to Canillas de Acitetuno in the west takes about 35 minutes. We have a choice of walks to suit the preferences and overall fitness level of the group. The toughest option climbs into the foothills of La Maroma with great views of the mountain, coast and crossing stunning Almachares Gorge at high level. We can also cross the gorge at lower level using the El Saltillo route crossing the new hanging bridge. Although shorter, this exciting new route is not suitable for vertigo sufferers so we can offer an alternative walk. After a picnic lunch, the descent to Sedella is gentle with time for a drinks in the village and short walk on to Salares for transfer back to Cómpeta. Walking Time Up to 5 Hours
Day 3 – Salares to Canillas de Albaida
The road transfer back to Salares to pick up the trail will take about 20 minutes. Again we have a choice of routes around the foot hills of La Maroma (2069m) with various elevation gains. We are likely to i end the walk down the valley of the Rio Cajula before the short but sharp climb up to Canillas de Albaida. Walking Time up to 5 Hours
The distance by road between these picturesque white villages is less than 3km but the choice of walks into the sierras is immense. Whatever option we choose we will walk through a hidden valley,climb a peak and have spectacular views sweeping down to the Mediterranean. Walking Time up to 5 Hours
Day 5 – Rest Day
Accommodation & Food
Depending on group size and room requirements, accommodation for the seven nights will be in Spanish Steps Casa Rurale or, if extra rooms are needed, the Posada del Cani close by. Rooms with double occupancy will be allocated their own/en-suite bathroom. Single occupancy rooms may have to share bathroom facilities. Both these delightful village properties are located close to the bustling Plaza Almijara. This the meeting and focal point for our group holidays in Cómpeta and also where we enjoy generous ‘al fesco’ breakfasts each day.
Main meals of the day are provided (except for the rest day) at excellent local restaurants. Some are simple and others are sophisticated, but they all provide excellent local cuisine, one or two glasses of good complimentary wine and great atmosphere. We have breakfasts in the Plaza and for lunch we may stop for tapas on route or take bocadillos and fruit into the hills.
Travel & More Information
The starting point for the holiday is Malaga airport with transfers at specified times to Cómpeta (normally leaving the airport no later than 2 pm). At the end of the week transfers are provided (normally arriving at Malaga airport at 10 am).
The historic centre of Malaga is also highly recommended for spending some extra time. There is much to see and enjoy and an overnight stay could be a great option if you are restricted to early return flights. Bus and train transfers from the city centre to the airport are inexpensive, frequent and convenient.
If you would like to extend your holiday and fancy something a little more relaxing do have a look at malagaeast.com. This excellent website provides useful information on coastal and inland villages close to the end of the ‘Silk Trail’. The site also includes some very interesting historical information on El Acebuchal, Frigiliana and Maro, all of which feature on the walk.
Dates & Prices
We are working on our Spring 2025 program and dates will be published when confirmed. Meanwhile please email us for latest information or to register your interest in a holiday in 2025.
What is included
- Single base holiday with 7 nights accommodation in Cómpeta. (See Accommodation above)
- Breakfasts
- Evening restaurant meals including wine (except on rest day)
- Welcome drinks
- Five guided full day walks to suit requirements of the group
- Transfers to and from trail heads
- Airport transfers at specified times
Reviews & Visitors Book
“It was a splendid week walking from the Sierras to the Sea. Thank you for your skilful organization
in arranging such a great holiday. The magic of Spanish Steps continues! I thoroughly
enjoyed being back in the sierras of Andalucia with the profusion of wild flowers and
the wonderful views. We were as always well rewarded at the end of the day with
delicious meals and wine which was much appreciated.” Margaret (Berks)
“Thank you for a fabulous week, as memorable as ever , tough, challenging but thoroughly enjoyed. As always the meals and wine flowed and we had fun evenings! Always love the house in Competa and felt very much at home. Sallie (Surrey)
“Many thanks for a wonderful holiday. Walking was amazing. Challenging but in a
good way ?. Wild flowers and scents were beautiful.” Emily (Edingburgh)
“Thanks for an excellent holiday. Over the years I have been on 30 plus Ramblers or
HF walking holidays (three in the last year alone) and last week was the best and
most enjoyable of them all. Ian (York)
