The Andalusian Legacy; a union of People & Nature
'Legend has it that, after almost eight centuries in the Iberian Peninsula, the last Nasrid sultan of Al-Andalus wept as he left Granada. We don’t blame him: it’s hard to say goodbye to this land overflowing with beauty and soul.'
This is an extraordinary journey in Southern Spain through a territory where history and nature merge in a symphony of landscapes, cultures, flavors, and silences. Land of inhabited caves and snow-capped peaks, of millennia-old dolmens, whitewashed villages, and legendary cities. And, of course, Granada—where the Alhambra will be only the beginning of a story you’ll want to keep discovering.
The recommended months for taking this journey are: Late Sept - mid June which is preferential for great hiking temperatures.
We rendezvous in Malaga mid morning and journey north into the Badlands.
Arrive at Almagruz and step into the Troglodyte world. For centuries people have lived in mountain Caves which make the perfect homes as temperatures go to extremes and the caves maintain a stable temperature.
We have the opportunity to participate in several workshops learning traditional practices that are still used today.
Afternoon walk in the Granada Geopark among surreal badlands where we immerse ourselves in the world of the ancient Quaternary and Prehistory. We finish the day at a centuries-old olive mill for a tasting of the region’s olive oil. There, we'll be greeted by Juanmi, its owner and heir to a dynasty of olive oil makers. A character with many facets, being a talented musician just another one of them... We'll have the opportunity of learning, a tasting, about the prime quality virgin olive oil they produce.
Hike: Circular route from Paulenca
Distance: 13 km; Elevation gain: +272 m.
Hike: Route from Gorafe to the astronomical center.
Distance: 14 km; Elevation gain: +289 m.
Begin the day with a hot-air balloon ride over the Badlands to watch the sunrise followed by a delicious brunch.
Transfer to Puerto de La Ragua in Sierra Nevada and hike to Bayárcal where we enjoy lunch. This hike is exceptionally scenic with amazing vistas all the way to the Mediterranean sea.
La Ragua → Bayarcal via GR-7:
Distance 13 km; Gain +200 m, Descent 1000m There is the option to finish the hike in Bayarcal
Hike: Mairena → Válor — Distance: 16 km; Elevation gain: +470 m, Descent 330m
Set off at first light along routes alive with water: acequias, fountains and ravines. The trail weaves between cultivated terraces and former mill sites. The landscape becomes wilder as you approach the high Guadalfeo valley. Berchules, perched above 1,300 m, greets you — a village known for celebrating its New Year in August and for its warm people.
Hike: Valor → Berchules
Distance: 16 km; Elevation gain: +289 m.
One of the most beautiful stages of the GR-7 in the high Alpujarra. The trail snakes through pine forests, pastureland and ancient transhumance paths, framed by Sierra Nevada’s high summits to the north. Arrive in Trevélez, the highest village in the Iberian Peninsula, famous for its air-cured ham. Enjoy the mountain atmosphere and well-earned rest.
Hike: Bérchules → Trevélez — Distance: 15 km; Elevation Gain: +730 m, Descent: -630m
Start in Trevélez, travel through dramatic ravines and slopes toward Capileira in the Poqueira gorge — a region of white villages where Moriscos once found refuge.
Hike: Trevélez → Capileira —
Distance: 13 km; Elevation gain: +1027 m. Descent -422m
Evening: dinner in one of the charming village restaurants.
A relaxed cultural walk through Capileira, Bubión, and Pampaneira (Poqueira gorge villages), visiting craft workshops and local teahouses. Learn to weave a jarapa (traditional rug) as a cultural close.
Hike (cultural option): Capileira → Bubión → Pampaneira — 4 km; Elevation Gain: +28 m, Descent -384m
After lunch we transfer to Granada (1h 30mins) with an optional Hammam.
Hammam - after many days hiking we have the opportunity to enjoy a wellness experience to invigorate our bodies & minds.
After breakfast we can enjoy a final farewell walk around the city before returning to Malaga via a comfortable direct train journey (1h, 10mins) or to Madrid (5hrs).
'May the tears be of joy — Granada will now be part of your story.'
Q. Is the accommodation listed in the itinerary guaranteed?
A. While we endeavour to ensure that the accommodation listed on the itinerary will be where you stay, open occasion it may be necessary to switch to an alternative.
When this happens we work hard to ensure that the alternative accommodation is of the same or a better standard, that it's location is close to the original destination, and that the overall impact is minimised in every way.
Accommodation details will be finalised and shared close to the trip departure (4-6 weeks in advance), however remains subject to change up to and following departure.
Q. How challenging are the treks / hikes?
A. we have graded this trip as a level 3 / 4
You / your party members should also be comfortable carrying your personal possessions required for the day in a rucksack, which might include items such as:
A water bottle
Snacks
Camera / phone / electronics
Waterproof / windproof jacket / trousers
Warm top / sun hat / sun cream
Any other items you would want to access while out for the day
If you would like further advice on the suitability of this trip for you or your party, please contact us.
Q. Do I have to do the planned activities, every day?
A. Not necessarily. Clients can request a 'rest day' or perhaps the opportunity to break from the scheduled itinerary.
It should be noted that on some days our excursion may form the transit between overnight locations, so a rest day may require the guest to make their way to the next location under their own initiative or at their own expense - in all cases we will work with guests to best accommodate their request.
Ghosts of Spain by Giles Tremlett - A comprehensive guide to Spain’s recent history and an in-depth portrait of its mentalities, Ghosts of Spain is written in an engaging, well-documented journalistic style.
Ornament of the World by Maria Rosa Menocal - 'If you can only read one book before your trip to Andalusia, you should go for Ornament of the World. This is the story of Al-Andalus, a medieval culture where literature, science, and tolerance flourished for 700 years.'
South of Granada by Gerald Brenan - 'A national hero in Spain, Gerald Brenan moved there in 1919, a feat that would feed a lifetime romance with Andalusia, its culture, people, and history.'
A Rose for Winter by Laurie Lee - 'Detailing his travels through Andalusia fifteen years after the end of the Civil War, the third chapter of the author’s love affair with the region not only explores souls and mentalities, uncovering everything that makes the South of Spain tick.'
Spain by Jan Morris - 'The extraordinary writing of Jan Morris is only paralleled by her impressive and inspiring life!'
The Barefoot Queen by Ildefonso Falcones - 'Set in 1748 Spain, The Barefoot Queen was THE novel that, for me, brought to life the spirit of flamenco and Spain. It follows the nearly tragic destinies of Milagros, a gypsy girl, her grandfather Melchor, and recently liberated slave Caridad through richly and vividly described historical events. '
Live Breathe Hike focuses on providing unique travel experiences that connect you to your natural environment and leaves you feeling invigorated and refreshed. We focus on attention to detail, exceptional customer service, and a strong commitment to environmental and ethical standards. LBH have been designing and running trips for over 25yrs (we started in 1997!) and pride ourselves in doing nothing less than 100%. Our ethos is simple…..we want our clients to have the most amazing, life-changing experiences, and create lasting memories