Marbella, Puerto Banús, and their surrounding areas are not just famous for their beaches, luxury, and gastronomy. They are also a haven for hiking enthusiasts. Thanks to its unique location between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains of Málaga, Marbella offers incredible trekking routes with breathtaking views and rich natural beauty.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely hike or a more challenging trail, the Sierra de las Nieves, Istán, and Ojén provide some of the best hiking experiences in southern Spain. Let us guide you through some of the top hiking routes in Marbella, perfect for connecting with nature and exploring the stunning landscapes of the Costa del Sol.
The Holy Chestnut Tree (El Castaño Santo)
The prize of this route is a visit to this very old chestnut tree, located in the area known as Hoyo del Bote, in the Sierra Real de Istán.
One of the most popular hiking routes in Marbella leads to the legendary Castaño Santo (The Holy Chestnut Tree), an ancient tree located in the Sierra Real de Istán. This nearly 1,000-year-old chestnut tree stands as a testament to the area’s history, where it is said that King Fernando the Catholic celebrated mass in 1501, and Ponce de León did the same after a victory in 1570.
This route will take you through forests of cork oaks, holm oaks, pines, and more, typical of the Serranía de Ronda. We recommend starting from the La Quinta Golf Course car park, and from there, it’s about a 16.5 km drive to this natural wonder.
Start of the route: Castaño Santo Trailhead
Ascent to Torrecilla
Welcome to the Sierra de las Nieves National Park, home to the Spanish fir and the highest peak in Málaga, Torrecilla (1,919 meters). This trail is perfect for mountain lovers and offers unparalleled views of the region.
Starting from Los Quejigales Recreational Area or Puerto del Saucillo near Yunquera, this circular hike spans between 20 to 24 km and takes approximately 6 to 8 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular scenery, including the Biosphere Reserve, and a challenging but rewarding ascent to the summit.
Start of the route: Torrecilla Trailhead
Ascent to la Concha
One of the most iconic hikes in Marbella, the ascent to La Concha, the queen of Sierra Blanca, offers panoramic views that are unmatched. This challenging trail takes you through various types of forests and along a ridge that creates the famous microclimate of the Costa del Sol.
The hike covers about 12 km and takes around 6 hours to complete, with a demanding elevation gain of 500 meters. The effort is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Gibraltar, North Africa, and the surrounding mountains.
Start of the route: La Concha Trailhead
Ascent to Puerto Rico
This hike begins near Restaurant La Kascada and leads up to the Mirador de Juanar, offering beautiful vistas along the way. Located between Ojén and Juanar, the trail can be adjusted to fit your schedule, with shorter or longer options available.
Typically, this hike takes about 4 hours for a round trip. The views and tranquil setting make it one of the top hiking routes near Marbella.
Start of the route: Puerto Rico Trailhead
Ascent to the Cross of Juanar
For a shorter but equally scenic hike, the ascent to the Cruz del Juanar is a must. Starting from the Hotel Refugio del Juanar, this 8-kilometer trail takes you through the picturesque Juanar area. We recommend doing this hike at sunset to enjoy the incredible views and, if possible, staying out until nightfall for some spectacular stargazing.
Start of the route: Cross of Juanar Trailhead
Water routes for summer in Marbella
In the heat of summer, nothing beats combining hiking with a refreshing swim in natural pools and rivers. The famous Las Angosturas route along the Guadalmina River in Benahavís is a perfect choice. This easy hike takes you along narrow mountain passes, with several river crossings and swimming spots along the way.
The trail starts at Charco de las Mozas and continues downstream for 2 to 3 hours, making it ideal for summer fun. Be sure to bring appropriate water gear, including swimming clothes and water shoes.
Another great summer option is the Padrón River trail in Estepona, a relatively easy route with mostly downhill paths, perfect for a family-friendly outing.