Autumn on the trails through the Montes de Málaga
At the twilight of the year, the pathways are cooler and become more tempting. The northern mountains salute the city from their peaks, and off a different type of tourism. Tourism that is more sustainable.
Perhaps this massif, so near the city which is only five kilometres away, is one of the great unknowns for many visitors. But not for those who live in Málaga: the Montes de Málaga are a constant attraction, with its numerous inns and restaurants, where you can go to eat, celebrate with your family or meet your with friends. However, gastronomy is not the only attraction, there's always going for walks. But then there are so many sustainable activities available in this area without damaging the surroundings: cycling, climbing, orienteering, horse riding…
This Nature Reserve allows the city to breathe. You, too. In the absence of rail trails, this rough, irregular terrain is a key point for hiking routes for visitors interested in discovering a Mediterranean forest where the Aleppo pine is to be found everywhere. On gentle autumn days, the trail becomes a very pleasant walk.
El Cochino Lookout Point
It is the privilege of cities that overlook the sea. Ecotourism in Andalusia, in Málaga means enjoying moments where the panoramic view permeates most of the elements of land, water and air. Here, they are all synthesised in the Bay of Málaga. All you need to do is take a mountain bike and climb up this lookout point… but there'll have to be some serious pedalling. It owes its name to the wild boar, one of the species populating the mountains, together with the red squirrel, the Iberian ibex, the dwarf bat and the red fox, which is a true delight. You might be lucky and one of them may cross your path.
La Reina-El Mirlo
Regal name for a beautiful spot, the Fuente de la Reina, which reaches 925 metres above sea level (and is the starting point for a route of just over seven kilometres). Standing proud just like a throne, the famous spring is surrounded by young cork oaks, and other species that make up the flora of the Montes de Málaga, that is: strawberry tree, shrubby hare's ear, buckthorns, crack willows, redouls, and so many more.
There's also abundant bird life, with robins, wood nuthatches and Sardinian warblers to give just a few examples. And then there are the birds of prey who reign supreme in this environment; proof of this is the presence of the short-toed snake eagle and the black kite, one of the most abundant of this type in Europe.
Las Contadoras
If you prefer a shorter route, the trail that goes from the Vázquez Sell Lookout Point to the Gateway of Las Contadoras is barely two kilometres. It's a pleasant walk which also starts and finishes at an impressive point - the Vázquez Sell Lookout Point-, opened in 2006. The panoramic view over Málaga is the simply spectacular, especially if you happen to be there at dusk. If you are an enthusiastic mycologist, look out: in the autumn there's a whole arsenal of mushrooms.
Pocopán Trail
Autumn is the ideal time to take a walk. As well as to dream and succumb to feelings of nostalgia (why not?).Especially when you arrive at the end of this little trail and unexpectedly find a nice little house which is also a delightful lookout point. Given the low level of difficulty you can always go with your family and your children, they'll have a great time! This is a great opportunity for bringing children into contact with nature; even though it is in such a small part of the 5,000 hectares which make up the mountains of Málaga.
