Charco Esteban: the natural pool hidden among trails and forests in the Genal Valley

In the heart of the Genal Valley, far from the busiest beaches of the Costa del Sol, lies a particularly attractive destination for those looking to combine hiking and nature during the summer. It is Charco Esteban, also known as La Fuentecilla, a natural pool formed by the waters of the Genal River between the municipalities of Jubrique and Benalauría.

Its appearance is easy to recognise: a large rock rises from the middle of the pool, surrounded by vegetation, while a small area of fine sand can be found along one side. The clear river water and wooded mountain landscape have made it one of the most distinctive spots in the Serranía de Ronda.

A natural pool in the Genal River

Charco Esteban lies in one of inland Málaga’s most characteristic natural environments. Cork oaks, chestnut trees, pine forests and riverside vegetation accompany a river that flows through some of the best-known white villages of the Genal Valley.

The area has traditionally been used by local residents as a place to rest and cool off during the warmer months. Unlike a conventional swimming pool, its appeal lies precisely in its natural character: river water, rock formations and vegetation form almost the entire setting.

The area also preserves traces of the way water has shaped rural life for generations. Opposite the pool, an old irrigation channel carved into the rock can still be seen, once forming part of the hydraulic systems used to supply nearby farmland.

A huge rock as its most distinctive feature

The most striking feature is the large block of stone standing in the middle of the water. Its size and position have made it something of a symbol of Charco Esteban and an immediate reference point in photographs of the area.

Around it, the river forms a calm pool beside a small river beach of fine sand, something less common among the natural swimming spots of inland Málaga.

The appearance of the pool can, however, change depending on rainfall and the movement of sediment. In recent years, accumulated material has reduced its depth, so visitors should not assume that the water is deep enough for jumping or diving.

Two routes to reach Charco Esteban

Part of the attraction is the journey itself. Charco Esteban cannot be reached directly by car, and visitors must follow different hiking trails through the Genal Valley.

The shorter option begins at San Juan Bridge, on the MA-8305 road between Algatocín and Jubrique. From there, hikers follow the Benarrabá-Benalauría section of the GR-141 Gran Senda de la Serranía de Ronda.

After crossing the Arabí stream, the route leaves the marked trail and continues along a forest track towards the old Almenta mill. Charco Esteban lies a short distance beyond it.

This option is approximately 3.5 kilometres each way, according to Málaga Provincial Council’s guide to natural pools and river swimming spots.

A route of more than six kilometres from Jubrique

The second option starts directly in Jubrique and follows the SL-A 195 trail.

This route is slightly more than six kilometres one way, making it a longer excursion that requires more time and preparation.

The trail crosses pine forests, cork oak groves, small agricultural areas and old rural paths once used to connect neighbouring villages.

As the route continues, hikers can enjoy views across the Genal Valley and its characteristic white villages.

One of the highlights is Higuerón Alto, from where Benalauría and the Peñón de Benadalid can be seen between the Genal and Guadiaro valleys.

The final section has its own challenge: after leaving the main track, a narrow path descends for several minutes towards the river before reaching the natural pool.

A route affected by this year’s heavy rainfall

Anyone planning to visit should check access conditions beforehand.

Heavy rainfall during January and February 2026 caused landslides and a large washout along the road to Charco Esteban.

Jubrique Town Council began repair work in July to restore the damaged section and improve access to nearby properties.

For this reason, particularly after periods of rain, it is advisable to confirm the current condition of the trail before setting out.

A summer escape into inland Málaga

Charco Esteban offers a very different image of Málaga during the summer.

Away from beaches, beach bars and busy coastal resorts, this destination involves walking through the mountains before reaching a quiet pool surrounded by nature.

The route also provides an opportunity to discover part of the Genal Valley, with its forests, old rural paths and white villages perched on the hillsides.

Clear water, a huge rock in the middle of the river and a tiny sandy riverbank complete a setting that proves some of Málaga’s most refreshing summer spots can be found far from the coast.

Location: Charco Esteban, also known as La Fuentecilla
Area: Between Jubrique and Benalauría, Genal Valley
Shorter route: Around 3.5 km from San Juan Bridge
Route from Jubrique: Just over 6 km each way via the SL-A 195

Information sources: Málaga Hoy and Málaga Provincial Council.