The hiking trail in Málaga that is

In the heart of the Serranía de Ronda, one of the most spectacular regions of Andalusia, runs one of the most charming, simple, and ideal hiking trails for children throughout the province of Málaga: the Genal River walkways route. This itinerary, just 3.8 kilometers long, has become one of the most unique in the area not only for its scenic beauty and biodiversity but also for the experience of walking on metal walkways suspended over the riverbed.

This circular trail, which returns along the same route, starts near Venta San Juan, by the MA-8305 road in the municipality of Jubrique, in the area known as the Lower Genal Valley. From the beginning, the landscape is generous: lush meadows, ancient mills, walkways over rocky slopes, and lush vegetation make this journey an unforgettable walk through the greenest interiors of Málaga.

A path among walkways, valleys, and riverside vegetation

The route starts with a ramp overlooking the village of Algatocín, nestled among the rugged reliefs of the mountain range. Shortly after, the trail slips behind the San Juan campsite and fords the Monardilla River via a wooden bridge. On both sides of the path, remnants of vegetation dragged by the floods of the Genal bear witness to the natural force of the surroundings.

At kilometer 1.3, the first of the metal walkways is reached after climbing a stone staircase without a railing. This first section takes the walker to the vega of the Cuarterones, flanked by chestnut trees and carobs, and to the so-called elevated platform, where one walks assisted by a guide cable, providing one of the most thrilling moments of the journey.

As you progress, you discover relics of the past like the venta Ventorriche or the mill of the Cypresses, the latter restored as a rural house. The meadows follow one another: the meadow of the Tiritones, covered with olive trees and pomegranates; the meadow of Juan Ruiz, with its small family garden among poplars, and the area of the vereda de los Limones, where the paths GR-249 (Great Path of Málaga) and GR-141 (Great Path of the Serranía de Ronda) fork.

An ending among poplars and stone: the meadow of Escribana

The last stretch of the route runs close to the stream, before reaching the third walkway, located about five hundred meters from the Prado de la Escribana. This recreational area, with stone tables and surrounded by poplars, marks the end of the journey, an ideal spot to regain strength with some food we carry in our backpacks. Just before arriving, the concrete bridge that allows crossing the Genal River is visible, leading to the forest tracks that ascend toward Benarrabá.

A few meters from the end, the meadow of Escribana opens up, a flat and open enclave that caps off a route that combines nature, history, and heritage. From this point, the return is made by the same path, offering a second chance to enjoy the same landscapes, this time from another perspective.

An environment connected with history and the territory

In addition to its scenic value, this route integrates into two of the great trails of the province of Málaga: the GR-249 and the GR-141. Its layout connects emblematic villages such as Genalguacil, Benalauría, Benarrabá, and Jubrique, all with a strong mountain character, white houses perched on the hillside, and a deep relationship with the Genal River.

The richness of this environment is complemented by cultural elements like ancient mills, dilapidated irrigation channels, and agricultural relics that narrate the traditional way of life in the area. There is even evidence of human presence from the Bronze Age near the route.