If you’re keen to experience the Costa Del Sol and have adventures in Andalucia, here are some day trips from Malaga and day trips from Marbella for you to consider. The mild temperatures in this part of Spain during winter make it an ideal time to go outdoors and explore away from the heat of summer. So break out from the beaches of Marbella and sidle away from the city of Malaga! I was lucky enough to explore the Costa del Sol with Jet2holidays
Practical Caminito del Rey information checked in October 2026. This article describes my earlier trip; conditions, prices and services can change.
El Torcal de Antequera
El Torcal de Antequera is a nature reserve in the Sierra del Torcal mountain range located south of the city of Antequera, about a 70-minute drive from Málaga or 90 minutes from Marbella It is known for its unusual landforms and is one of the most impressive karst landscapes in Europe. In July 2016, this area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It has also been declared a special protection area for birds, and is a must-visit for birdwatchers, twitchers and ornithologists alike. Sparrowhawks, common kestrels, peregrines, griffon vultures, Bonelli’s eagles can often be seen in the skies, and at night, little owls and eagle owls. Other birds are those commonly found in rocky areas and cliffs, like crag martins, black wheateaters and red-billed choughs.
El Torcal de Antequera
Covering an area of almost 12 square km, El Torcal Park has some of the most beautiful and impressive limestone landscapes in Europe. 100 million years ago, this whole area was under the sea.
Ammonite imprint
Ammonites were sea creatures and became extinct around 65 million years ago. It’s mind-blowing to think this imprint is that old and is located around 1000 metres above today’s sea level. Nature, eh.
There are three signposted walks in the area. Green is the easiest and shortest route, followed by yellow, with the red route being the longest.
On clearer days, you can see the African coastline.
On clear days, you can see the African coastline.
Caminito del Rey: planning your visit in 2026
El Caminito del Rey has spectacular views through the Gaitanes Gorge. Its old reputation as a dangerous path belongs to the original walkway; visitors now follow a restored, managed route. It is still a high, narrow outdoor trail, so follow the official rules and check the weather before travelling.
Book timed tickets through the official Caminito del Rey site before you travel. As checked in October 2026, general admission is €10 and the official guided visit is €18. Prices and availability can change. Children under eight cannot enter; children aged eight or over need original ID or a family book, and under-18s must be accompanied by an adult. If you prefer transport and a guide from Málaga, compare this organised excursion with the official ticket.
El Caminito del Rey
The official route information describes an approximately 8 km, one-way visit from the Ardales side to El Chorro, allowing around three to four hours including access paths. The boardwalk section is only part of that total. You cannot simply turn round and retrace the trail.
El Caminito del Rey
The boardwalks cling to the gorge walls and the river has carved a remarkable landscape below. This was one of the most memorable outdoor parts of my Costa del Sol trip.
El Caminito del Rey walkway.
Reserve your timed ticket in advance, allow time to walk from your parking or bus stop to the northern entry, and plan the shuttle back from El Chorro. The official site currently lists the shuttle at €2.50 per person; if paying on the bus, bring cash, as the driver does not accept cards. Use the toilet before the controlled route and carry water. Check the official parking and shuttle details shortly before visiting.
The queue for the toilet on my visit!
Ronda
Ronda, a historic city built around a steep canyon (El Tajo) is probably best known for its views and ‘new bridge’ rising up 120 metres from the floor. It’s called the new bridge even though it was completed in 1793!
New Bridge, Ronda
There are plenty of other viewpoints in the city to take photos of the dramatic landscape.
Breathtaking views
Another great view.
Ronda is also home to the oldest bullring in Spain (Plaza de Toros de Ronda). Although still legal in this part of Spain, attendances are dropping and the ring is now used more often for equestrian events. I am against bullfighting and would NOT recommend anyone to attend such an event.
Ronda bullring
There are lots of other things to do in Ronda, but my time there was limited, and I would like to go back and see more. You can book your trip to Ronda from either Malaga or Marbella here.
Benalauria
Benalauria is a pretty much unheard of village. With a population of around 500, it’s tiny. Benalauría is 143 kilometres from the city of Malaga.
Benalauria, Spain
Set with the copper forest in the background, its roads are too narrow for cars. A pleasant way to spend the afternoon here is to walk around the whitewashed, quaint streets and perhaps visit the 18th-century olive oil museum/factory or pop into the local winery and try some local wine and payoyo cheese.
Olive oil factory, Benalauria
Where to stay: I stayed at the Iberostar Marbella Coral Beach with Jet2holidays– a modern and elegant hotel surrounded by gardens, koi-filled ponds and right next to the beach.
Iberostar Marbella Coral Beach
The rooms had ample power sockets and USB chargers, and mine had a rooftop jacuzzi.
How to get there: Fly to Malaga with Jet2 from several UK airports including Manchester and Leeds Bradford. Check the baggage included in your particular Jet2 booking before packing. Flights, hotels or the whole shebang can be booked here at Jet2Holidays
Disclosure: This trip was sponsored by Jet2 and Vista Costa Del Sol – massive thanks to them.[jr_instagram id=”2″] 
However, the thoughts and opinions in this post are as always, my own.
