Long, hard, invigorating, full-day hikes in the foothills and lower/middle mountain valleys occasionally in isolated areas.
Main Features
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Hiking Time
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<8 hours (includes stops for lunch, breaks, photos, etc.) |
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Hiking Distance
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15 – 25 kilometres |
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Types of Terrain
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Unsurfaced forest roads, rough and steep mountain paths, some disused/abandoned forest trails, old drovers paths, traditional mule routes, ridge walks, snow-covered ridges in winter, scree slopes, high river valleys, high mountain passes, ancient footpaths, ascent of significant peaks (<1500 m) |
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Level of Difficulty
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4C (rating explanation) |
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Hiking Pace
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Lively and eager but measured. |
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Facilities and Amenities
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Some hikes allow for lunch in a mountain inn. Refer to specific itinerary for more detail. |
Overview
The Challenging Hikes are best suited to seasoned hill and mountain hikers with experience of hiking in demanding mountain environments during a full day. A good, decent level of fitness is required as these hikes are long and hard. The pace is enthusiastic but measured, sometimes negotiating difficult mountain terrain. Most of these routes will take us into isolated areas with minimal chance of contact with other hikers. Good preparation is important.
We typically follow paths through steep, rough and difficult ground in the upper foothills and lower/middle mountain valleys of the sierras. The routes follow both well-worn and overgrown paths through a wide variety of Mediterranean mountain vegetation. The landscape on these hikes is increasingly more dramatic and stark. More often than not, you will need to have a good head for heights as quite frequently there are exciting moments to be had. The slopes are steeper, the ridges narrower, the paths rockier, and the views more spectacular. There will be frequent stops for taking pictures, short rests and for admiring the scenery.
On most of these hikes, there is a good chance that you will see the iconic Iberian ibex. You will also have a good chance at spotting an eagle, vulture, falcon or kestrel soaring high above the mountain peaks. The Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park boast a magnificent inventory of birds of prey. They are sometimes difficult to see, but when you do see them, the sight is quite spectacular. A good pair of binoculars and a good camera would be very useful on these walks.
The spectacular views and impressive mountain environment, not to mention the chance at spotting interesting wildlife, make the option of the Challenging Hikes a viable compromise for anyone not fully fit and able to participate on the much more challenging Adventure Hikes.
Note: The hikes in this category are all classed as challenging. However, within this broad category, some will be classed as challenging but easy, compared to others that may be classed as challenging but hard. As such, please refer to the specific difficulty rating for each hike for a more detailed classification.
The Challenging Hikes
16 Km
7 Hrs
4-C
A challenging and vigorous hike in terms of both effort required and the difficulty of the terrain, with the highlight being a short scramble up a narrow ridge. Many interesting natural features in wonderful scenery. More Info >>
14 Km
7 Hrs
4-C
A relatively short hike though somewhat demanding, but highly rewarding nonetheless, to the ruins of an historical Moorish castle atop what is undoubtedly the best vantage point in the sierra. Spectacular views and stunning mountain scenery. More Info >>
17 Km
7 Hrs
3-C
A great hike with a variety of natural features, scenery and paths and terrain to enjoy. Walk in the Higuerón and Chillar river valleys, and along a mountain canal with great views. Leisurely hike with some challenging sections. More Info >>
16 Km
7 Hrs
3-B
A nice hike with some moderate components at the beginning, becoming a leisurely downhill stroll from the halfway point onwards. Lovely scenery and walking terrain. More Info >>