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Grazelama
Natural Park to the Beaches of Tarifa
After the delights of Ronda head for rural Grazalema, put on your walking boots and be ready to discover the high sierras and famous ‘white villages’ of Andalucia. Walk into the Guadiario River valley, then head south via Jimena de la Frontera to Tarifa, where the Mediterranean mixes with the Atlantic just a stones throw from the African coast.
Where
better to step into Andalucia than the beautiful city of Ronda? See the
New Bridge (now hundreds of years old), bullring and elegant houses in
twisting streets with hidden courtyards and Berber style patios that
overlook the escarpment and countryside beyond. In contrast, but still
essential Andalucia, are the landscapes of the Grazalema Natural Park, the
second port of call. From the village of Grazalema, set out for 3 days
walking across limestone scenery of mountains, green meadows, oak forest
and rocky gorges. Pass through the pristine village of Villaluenga del
Rosario, cross the passes of the Sierra de Ronda and follow an ancient
cattle trail in the Guadiaro valley. Heading south, take the scenic
railway to Jimena de la Frontera, another fine ‘white village’ with a
three arched gateway and traditional Andalucian Architecture. Two nights
here give time to walk in ‘Los Alcornacales Natural Park’ where there
are rock pools for a swim, an old mill and the ruined 13th century Jimena
Castle standing atop the hill overlooking the town. From Jimena board the
train once more to Algeciras, followed by a transfer to the Estrecho
Natural Park at the most southerly part of Spain. Here walk the fantastic
coastal route towards Tarifa with views across both the Mediterranean and
the Atlantic to the coast of Africa just 14 km away. Once in Tarifa visit
the Roman ruins of Bolonia, the beaches or stroll the narrow cobbled
streets. The original castellated city walls of this ancient town are
tightly woven into the fabric of the whitewashed houses. If you opt to
stay in Tarifa for an extra day you can even take a trip to Morocco.
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Accommodation
7
nights/8 days - In Ronda we stay in a charming 3* hotel, with pool and no more than 10 bedrooms, situated in the historical centre. The hostal in
Grazalema is an old restored house in the centre of the village with a small restaurant offering traditional cuisine. In the picturesque village of
Villaluenga we stay in a small 2* hotel at the top of the village and in
Montejaque our 3* hotel is situated in the central square. Our 2 nights in
Jimena de la Fontera are spent in a hostal with twelve charming rooms, Andalucian courtyards, vine shaded terraces, roof top swimming pool and sun terrace. This hostal also has a cosy bar, decorated with railway regalia and a restaurant. In
Tarifa the 2* hotel is situated right in the historical centre close to the castle of Guzmán el Bueno. All accommodation has ensuite bathrooms and is booked on a bed and breakfast basis.
Note:
Baggage must be carried on the bus from Ronda to Grazelema and on
the train journeys.
Sherpa Notes
Waymarking
Some routes have basic waymarking, others require use of map and
notes.
Accommodation and Meals
2 nights in 3* hotels, 2 nights in 2* hotels and 3 nights in small charming hostals. All rooms have ensuite facilities. Bed and breakfast throughout, evening meals are not included.
Travel
BA flight Gatwick to Malaga. Buses from airport to Malaga and on to Ronda, cost approx. €12 (not included).
During the trip a bus is used from Ronda to Grazelema and Benaocaz to Villaluenga. The train is used twice. The cost of these journeys is not included and will be approx. €15.
To return to Malaga airport from Tarifa, take buses via Malaga bus station, cost €15 (not included).
Buses in Spain are comfortable and punctual and provide a better service than the trains |
vacations
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