The most breathtaking route in Málaga when the snow arrives: winter ascent to La Maroma

The arrival of the first snowfalls to the province of Málaga significantly transforms the landscapes of the Axarquía and the eastern sierras. With temperatures dropping and the first flakes visible on the high peaks, winter offers an unusual sight in the southern peninsula. In this context, the ascent to La Maroma, the highest peak in the province, becomes one of the most striking routes from a scenic and natural perspective, especially when snow begins to cover slopes and peaks.

Located on the natural boundary between Málaga and Granada, La Maroma reaches 2,065 meters in altitude and is part of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama Natural Park. Its snow-covered silhouette, visible from numerous points in the Axarquía, acts as a powerful visual attraction during the colder months of the year.

One of the most notable routes to reach the summit starts from the El Alcázar recreational area, in the municipality of Alcaucín. The route enters the Sierra Gorda de Loja, a mountainous massif that frames the Poljé de Zafarraya, a unique agricultural landscape that changes hues with the seasons.

From the first meters, the trail offers wide views towards the La Viñuela reservoir, to the west, and towards the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park, which appears on the horizon accompanied by the sierras of Camarolos and Alhama. In winter, the combination of clear skies, cold air, and whitened peaks creates a visually powerful scene.

Vegetation changes on the ascent to La Maroma

As altitude is gained, the vegetation environment evolves progressively. In the initial sections, pine forests of Aleppo pine, a result of old reforestation efforts, predominate. As the ascent progresses, species such as the gall oak, holm oak, and juniper appear, adapted to more demanding conditions.

The route is also notable for the presence of aromatic mountain plants. Sage and rosemary permeate the air, adding a sensory component that accompanies the winter landscape. After about half an hour of walking, the slope eases in the area known as the Ananás de Alcaucín, a transition point to colder and more open climates.

From this enclave, the view heads north, where on clear days the Subbética Sierras and La Tiñosa peak, the highest in the province of Córdoba, can be distinguished.

Wildlife and more rugged sections of the route

The winter ascent to La Maroma often allows for sightings of the park's characteristic wildlife. Mountain goats tend to appear in groups on the slopes, while large birds of prey, such as the golden eagle or the Bonelli's eagle, are commonly seen in the sky. The red-billed chough is also notable, easily recognizable by its agile flight and dark silhouette.