November turns Malaga into a hiking paradise: routes, dates and registration details

November brings a packed programme of opportunities to explore Malaga province on foot. Cooler temperatures and autumn colours make it one of the best times of the year to discover the area’s mountains, forests and coastal trails.

The calendar includes activities for different abilities, from accessible guided walks to demanding 30 and 50-kilometre endurance events.

Cómpeta, Frigiliana, Nerja, Periana, Estepona, the Genal Valley and the Montes de Málaga will be among the principal destinations.

Prices, availability and participation requirements vary, so walkers should check the conditions and complete any necessary registration in advance.

Three free guided routes on November 8 and 22

Malaga Provincial Council’s Senderos de Otoño programme will continue during November with guided and interpreted visits to the Gran Senda de Málaga and the Senda Litoral.

Walks will be held on Sunday, November 8, and Sunday, November 22. Three routes will be available on each date:

• Frigiliana to Nerja.
• Pulgarín in Alfarnatejo to Periana.
• Arroyo Taraje to Estepona.

Participation is free, but advance registration and a Gran Senderista identification code are required.

Buses will leave the Provincial Council headquarters at Calle Pacífico 54 at 8am. Participants must arrive 15 minutes beforehand and carry their ID and proof of registration.

Frigiliana to Nerja through the Axarquía mountains

The route between Frigiliana and Nerja follows stage five of the Gran Senda de Málaga in the opposite direction.

It covers approximately 14 kilometres, takes around six hours and has a medium-to-high difficulty rating.

The trail enters the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara y Alhama Natural Park and crosses the Sierra de Enmedio. Walkers can enjoy views of landmarks including El Almendrón, Navachica and Pico del Cielo.

The route also passes traditional irrigation channels and water systems that have supported agriculture in the area.

From Alfarnatejo to Periana with views of La Viñuela

The second route begins at Pulgarín, in the municipality of Alfarnatejo, and finishes in Periana.

It also covers approximately 14 kilometres, although it has a medium difficulty rating and should take around four and a half hours.

The path crosses the Arco Calizo Central landscape, passes wild olive groves near Cortijo de Zapata and continues through the village of Guaro. Views of La Viñuela reservoir are among its main attractions.

Follow the coastal path into Estepona

The programme’s easiest option connects Arroyo Taraje with the centre of Estepona.

This 10.5-kilometre walk has a low technical difficulty and follows beaches, sandy areas and several rocky sections of the western Costa del Sol.

The route passes historic watchtowers, the Roman site of Las Torres and the mouths of several rivers and streams. On clear days, walkers can enjoy views towards the Strait of Gibraltar.

Cómpeta welcomes hikers from across Malaga

Cómpeta will host a provincial hiking gathering on Sunday, November 8, as part of the Eurorando 2026 programme.

The event begins at 8am at the municipal venue known as La Fábrica and features a circular route of approximately 14 kilometres.

The trail leaves Cómpeta and passes through Collado del Puerto, Casa la Mina and Venta María Dolores before returning near the football ground.

The event forms part of Malaga’s Provincial Popular Hiking Cup and is designed to bring walkers together for a social day in the mountains.

Registration costs €17 for participants with a federation licence and €20 for those without one.

The Copper Forest displays its autumn colours

Another walk scheduled for November 8 visits the Bosque de Cobre, or Copper Forest, the popular name given to the Genal Valley’s chestnut woodlands when their leaves change colour.

During autumn, the trees turn yellow, ochre and red, transforming the landscape around villages including Pujerra, Parauta, Igualeja, Cartajima, Jubrique and Genalguacil.

It is one of the Serranía de Ronda’s most photographed natural sights. Visitors should respect private land, avoid collecting chestnuts without permission and park only in designated areas.

The Mammoth March offers 30 and 50-kilometre challenges

Malaga city will host another edition of the Mammoth March on Saturday, November 14. This is a long-distance walking challenge rather than a competitive race.

Participants can choose between:

• A 30-kilometre route.
• A 50-kilometre route.

The start and finish area will be located beside CEIP Clara Campoamor on Avenida Imperio Argentina. Check-in begins at 6.30am, with groups departing at staggered times during the morning.

The event includes refreshment points, medical assistance and services at the start and finish. It is restricted to adults and requires paid registration.

The Montes de Málaga close the month

The 11th Ciudad de Málaga Hiking Event will take place on Saturday, November 28, following paths and forest tracks through the Montes de Málaga.

It is a recreational, non-competitive event intended to encourage healthy habits and contact with nature.

The walk is scheduled to begin at 8am and finish at approximately 6.30pm. A significant part of the itinerary will cross the natural park, although the entire route remains within Malaga municipality.

Advice before setting out

Autumn is an excellent season for hiking, but changing weather can quickly affect trail conditions.

Before beginning a route, participants should:

• Check the latest forecast and weather warnings.
• Confirm that the event has not been postponed or cancelled.
• Carry water, food and waterproof clothing.
• Wear suitable walking shoes with good grip.
• Download the route or carry a GPS device.
• Avoid rivers and flood-prone areas during heavy rain.
• Remain on marked paths and take all rubbish away.
• Choose a route suitable for their physical condition.

Storm Bruna may affect some activities planned for Sunday, November 8. Registered participants should check messages from the organisers before travelling to the meeting points.

Malaga hiking calendar for November

• November 7: Organised walk with the Sociedad Excursionista de Málaga.
• November 8: Autumn Trails in Frigiliana, Alfarnatejo and Estepona.
• November 8: Provincial hiking gathering in Cómpeta.
• November 8: Copper Forest walk from Antequera.
• November 14: Mammoth March over 30 or 50 kilometres.
• November 14: Organised hike in the Sierra de Mijas.
• November 22: Second day of Autumn Trails.
• November 28: 11th Ciudad de Málaga Hiking Event.