Four hiking trails to discover the colors of the Copper Forest this fall in Málaga

The Copper Forest is one of the most magical spots of autumn in the province of Málaga. The Genal Valley, filled with chestnut trees, changes color towards the end of November. It is the time when the leaves of these gigantic trees that make up the valley progressively change color, offering a range of shades from yellow to coppery brown, leaving along the way orange and reddish tones. The fall of the first leaves transforms the scene of the numerous villages that make up and surround the so-called Copper Forest, as well as the many hiking trails that can be explored at this time, some of which we recommend this time in the Serranía de Ronda.

A circular route among the chestnut trees of Pujerra

Many know Pujerra as the epicenter of chestnuts in the Serranía de Ronda. It's a title that many might contest, but it's undeniable that this town has a history linked to this autumnal and winter delicacy. The Copper Forest surrounds Pujerra and it is from the center of the village where a circular hiking route starts, just four kilometers long, suitable for all audiences, ideal for a family outing with children. It takes just an hour and a half and its difficulty is low.

The hiking trail starts from the center of Pujerra, skirting it to descend along a path that displays numerous century-old trees, ancient chestnuts that have witnessed generations in the area, as well as the millenary Chestnut Mercedes, a landmark of the place. The views it offers of the entire Genal Valley are sensational, especially due to the contrasts of the entire area, the colors of the forest. To return after this short walk, there is a small climb, somewhat steep but simple, until reaching back to the urban area of the town.

The best way to connect the beauty of Cartajima and Júzcar

Another of the best hiking trails that runs through the Copper Forest is the one that connects the charming and quaint villages of Cartajima and Júzcar, two small municipalities of the Serranía de Ronda that are separated by about 7 kilometers. Although the total elevation gain is around 380 meters, with several intense climbs, it is not a route of great difficulty, rather moderate, but suitable for almost any hiker.

It is worth noting that Cartajima is, in itself, one of the best viewpoints of the Copper Forest, a village in the Genal Valley that offers us spectacular chromatic panoramas during this time of the year. It is precisely from this town where we start the route, walking through chestnut trees and some beautiful valleys until reaching our destination, Júzcar, the blue village. It's up to you to choose where to stop to enjoy the local cuisine, which is highly recommended.

Igualeja: the birth of the Genal river as a starting point

An hour and a half and about four kilometers is the introduction to this hiking route where we can see one of the most beautiful unique spots offered by the nature of Málaga, such as the birth of the Genal river, as well as a beautiful village like Igualeja. The starting point of this hiking route is from the center of the town, from its most representative square, from where we will discover countless chestnut trees and some areas from which to gaze at the path and the beauty of the Copper Forest.

The route begins with a small ascent on a dirt path, so depending on the time of year you visit, we recommend caution in case of any slips. The route is simple, easy, and suitable for all audiences in any case, a route that allows enjoyment and ends at the same starting point, contemplating the beauty of the birth of the Genal river.

Parauta: nature and sculptures in the Enchanted Forest

Lastly, we stop at Parauta. This village in Málaga traverses one of the most unique places in the entire Genal Valley, which is spectacular throughout the year and shines with a different color this season. Yes, we are talking about the Enchanted Forest. This circular route, there and back, of just 4 kilometers, starts from the town's sports center and is completed in an hour and a half, although it all depends on how long you stop at the multiple carved trees that make up the path.

Among figures like elves, gnomes, or animals, this hiking trail is perfect for going with children, who will enjoy while engaging in some activity amidst nature. The end of the trail offers panoramas of the entire landscape of the area, with ochre and reddish colors as the protagonists of the Copper Forest.