Seven things not to miss this summer during a visit to the Guadalhorce reservoirs

It is one of the summer destinations that surprises visitors in the interior of the province of Málaga. Around the Guadalteba, Guadalhorce, and Conde del Guadalhorce reservoirs, also popularly known as the Three Lakes, there is much to do in the midst of summer.

It has beaches, thrilling trails, and a lot of history. From there, one can plan the perfect getaway.

In the last two summers, it was more difficult to spend a beach day at the foot of the Chorro dam. The drought significantly reduced its flow, and therefore, it could not be enjoyed in the same way. But this year, after a good hydrological year, it has become one of the best inland beaches in all of Andalusia again.

The beach, which once flew the Blue Flag, offers a sand area different from those on the coast. Not only because of its freshwater but also because of the large forest surrounding this beach.

It is a fun and enjoyable way to practice sports. Water activities are a fundamental part of the offerings that can be enjoyed at the Chorro reservoir. There, companies like Indian Sport have been providing the opportunity to navigate this reservoir with oars and paddles through the rental of their canoes and paddleboards for a quarter of a century.

Among these, they even offer a group mode, with a capacity for about eight people.

Both kayaking and paddle surfing are relatively demanding water activities, requiring some skill and concentration to navigate.

But there is also an option in El Chorro for those who want to make more relaxed group tours, such as pedal boats, which can be rented at La Isla, another active tourism company operating in the reservoir.

One does not realize what the set of the three Guadalhorce, Conde del Guadalhorce, and Guadalteba reservoirs is today until one has a broad perspective.

For this, it is advisable to go to the main viewpoints next to these reservoirs. It is best to do this early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Not only will this avoid sun exposure, but it will also provide the most suitable lighting to contemplate a dreamlike landscape. Among the most recommended viewpoints are the mirador of the Three Reservoirs, but also those of Tajo de la Encantada, the Chorro Station, and the Buitreras, among others.

In the environment of the three interior reservoirs, there is much more than just spectacular landscapes or gorges. Beyond what these rugged and rough mountains hold, there is a past that can even be explored during the summer.

Trying to avoid the hours of greatest solar incidence, one must find time to visit the Bobastro archaeological site, which was the headquarters of Omar Ben Hafsún, or the necropolis of las Aguilillas, a funerary complex that has its own hiking route. But, there is much more in the environment, from the Cave of Ardales to the castles of Álora and la Peña.

For many, it is the highlight of the wide range of tourist offerings available at the interior reservoirs. However, some people have a fear of heights and prefer to avoid it. In summer, although temperatures are high, it is also a good option to enjoy nature and history in a thrilling way.

It is advisable to take a guided tour to not miss any details about everything related to the Caminito del Rey: from ammonites on its walls to railway milestones or the origin of this vertiginous walkway in one of the most amazing canyons in Europe.

Around the reservoirs, there is a wide gastronomic offer that enhances traditional dishes from the surrounding towns, such as Álora, Ardales, Antequera, or Campillos, among others.

Thus, next to the reservoirs themselves, there are many options for eating well and, in some cases, doing so while enjoying spectacular views. In the El Chorro area, establishments like La Cantina, El Kiosko, El Mirador, or La Posada del Conde, all in Ardales territory, await. But others in Álora, such as La Garganta, which offers one of the best possible panoramas, must also be added.