If you're looking for nature on a grand scale and want to feel like you're on the moon or another planet, then El Torcal Natural Park is definitely a must-see!
Choosing a route is always difficult, as every corner is worth seeing. The time you have available, as well as the weather and the quality of the ground, are factors to take into account when choosing your route. We won't lie to you, every corner of El Torcal is beautiful, and it's very difficult to choose just one route.
That said… what is the most beautiful route in El Torcal?
It is obviously subjective; it depends on each person's sensitivity and expectations.
I would say that if you want to reach the highest points for the views they offer in all directions and at the same time see ammonite and belemnite fossils, as well as learn about El Torcal's past as a quarry and take a photo with El Sombrerillo or El Corazón, your route is the one called "Ruta de los ammonites" (Ammonite Route) (about 2.5-3 hours long).
For this route, it is advisable to go with a guide, not only to better understand the area, but also because of the risk of getting lost. Take a look at our guided tour of El Torcal.
If you prefer to venture into the stone alleyways where the towering buildings seem like giants capable of coming to life, alleyways that eventually lead to sinkholes like small meadows full of birds and flowers, perhaps the green and yellow routes are what you are looking for.
Shortly before the end of the route, there is a detour to the right that leads to a ledge from where you can enjoy views of the coast and the mountains of Malaga. Weather permitting, you can also see the Sierra Nevada and Morocco.
The green route takes approximately 1 hour, while the yellow route takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. Both routes are clearly marked.
And if you want to walk a little but enjoy the most representative part of El Torcal, you can take the path that leads to the El Tornillo Natural Monument (about 400 meters from the Visitor Center parking lot). In addition to seeing this symbol of the Sierra de El Torcal, if you climb a few meters to the right when you arrive, the views towards Malaga are beautiful. You can return to the parking lot by the road.
Well, now it's your turn to choose and, above all, visit El Torcal! One thing is certain: whichever option you choose, the views you'll enjoy will be unforgettable.
