One week in Andalucía
Welcome to Andalucía, a region bursting with vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. For this travel guide, we'll take you through our week-long adventure based at the charming B&B Finca Viva la Vida in Álora. With a rented car, we explored some of the most captivating destinations this beautiful region has to offer.
How to Get There
By Air:
The primary airport serving Andalucía is Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP). It is well-connected with major cities across Europe and beyond. We flew from Eindhoven with Transavia which was a 3-hour flight.
Seville Airport (SVQ) and Granada Airport (GRX) are other international airports that can serve as entry points.
Best time to travel
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November):
These are considered the best times to visit Andalucía. The weather is mild and the landscapes are lush and vibrant. These seasons are perfect for sightseeing, hiking and enjoying outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August):
We went in this season and it’s ideal for beach lovers and those looking to enjoy coastal areas. However, be prepared for high temperatures, especially inland. Coastal towns and beaches are popular destinations during this time.
Winter (December to February):
Good for city breaks and cultural tours. Coastal areas remain relatively mild, making them a pleasant escape from colder northern climates. Winter also offers the opportunity to experience traditional festivities like Christmas and New Year's celebrations.
Tips
Language: Spanish is the official language. While English is commonly understood in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your travel experience.
Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency. Cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas.
Travel insurance: It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers health, accidents and theft.
Local customs: Andalucía is known for its warm hospitality. Respect local customs, such as siesta time in the afternoon when shops and businesses may close for a few hours.
Safety: Andalucía is generally safe for tourists. Take standard precautions against pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas.
Day 1: Arrival in Álora
Stay: B&B Finca Viva la Vida, Álora
After a smooth flight and a scenic 35-minute drive from Málaga airport, you’ll find yourself at the enchanting Finca Viva la Vida near the charming town of Alora. Nestled in the Andalusian hills, this beautifully renovated B&B is the perfect base for your adventures in Southern Spain. As soon as you arrive, you'll be greeted by the warm hospitality of Paul and Monique and their daugthers, the dedicated owners who have transformed this old finca into something truly special.
The rooms are not only comfortable but also full of rustic charm, offering a cozy retreat after a day of exploring. Each morning, you’ll wake up to breathtaking views and a delicious breakfast made with fresh, local ingredient, a highlight that sets the tone for the day ahead. Paul and Monique's friendly and attentive service will make you feel right at home, and they’re always available to provide recommendations or answer any questions you may have.
Finca Viva la Vida is a hidden gem in the Andalusian hills, and it’s a destination you’ll want to return to. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a base for your Andalusian adventures, this B&B is the perfect choice. We booked this trip with Elizawashere.com, and everything was taken care of, including a car and we had the best time.
The relaxing pool at the B&B is your perfect oasis for unwinding during your vacation. Surrounded by serene landscapes, it’s the ideal spot to kick back, enjoy the quiet, and let all your stress melt away. You'll find it’s the perfect place to recharge and soak in the peaceful vibes of your getaway.
A 15-minutes drive from the B&B you’ll find the picturesque village, Álora. After a day of exploration, there's nothing better than treating yourself to a delicious meal at one of the restaurants in Álora. The local cuisine is a true delight, with traditional Andalusian dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for tapas, grilled meats or seafood, the restaurants in Álora have something to satisfy everyone.
However, one of the highlights of your stay might just be the Paella night offered by Paul and Monique, the warm and welcoming owners of your B&B. Their paella is amazing and cooked to perfection. It’s the perfect way to experience authentic Spanish cuisine in a cozy, friendly atmosphere, making your stay even more memorable.
Day 2: Exploring the beaches and Málaga
On your first full day, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees, it’s the perfect opportunity to escape to the beach. A 45-minute drive from the B&B takes you to the quieter stretches of the Costa del Sol, where crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings provide the ideal setting for a relaxing day. Spend your time swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the sea breeze at Niza beach. You can rent a sunbed and an umbrella, but you can also relax on your own. After spending some time on the beach go for a lunch at a nearby restaurant at Origen playa. This is a laid-back Ibiza vibe restaurant, where you can take in stunning views of the Mediterranean sea.
After having lunch, you can return along the road, passing several parking spots that lead to small, picturesque beaches. We parked just before one of these beaches, and after a short walk down, you arrive at a stunning beach with crystal-clear blue water.
After a day at the beach, head back to Málaga just in time for the golden hour. The city’s historic buildings glow under the soft light, creating a magical atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets, explore hidden alleys and enjoy a dinner of authentic tapas. As night falls, discover Málaga’s vibrant nightlife with a cocktail at a local bar before heading back to your cozy retreat at Finca Viva la Vida.
Day 3: Serene Ojén and scenic drives
Today, go on a scenic drive through the stunning countryside of the Sierra de las Nieves. The one-hour journey offers breathtaking views of fields, olive groves and distant mountains. Your destination is a water hiking trail along a river in the park. The journey to your destination is an adventure in itself. We were driving a Fiat 500, a car not exactly built for rough terrain. The road was unpaved, full of holes and stones, which made the drive a bit risky at times. Every bump brought us a little closer to our destination but also made us wonder if we were on the right path.
After some time, our GPS led us astray and we couldn't find the trail. Instead, we decided to explore Istán. A small village nestled in the serene hills. We enjoyed lunch at a local café and we took a leisurely stroll through the town. Although we didn’t complete our planned water hike, the day still offered us a beautiful experience. After leaving Istán, head out towards the coast and go found a beach near Marbella. While it wasn’t the most memorable spot of our trip, it was relaxing and refreshing to cool off in the sea. The beach provided a pleasant break and a chance to unwind under the Andalusian sun.
After the beach your next stop is Ojén, a small white-washed village nestled in the Sierra de las Nieves. This hidden gem will captivate you with its narrow streets, vibrant lemons hanging from the walls and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. To our surprise, a local festival was taking place during our visit. The streets were filled with music, dancing, and a joyful atmosphere. One of the village's hidden gems is a cave that offers a panoramic view over Ojén, the surrounding countryside and even the distant sea. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the village’s cave. The view from the cave was truly spectacular, providing a perfect photo opportunity.
One of the village's hidden gems is a cave that offers a panoramic view over Ojén, the surrounding countryside and even the distant sea. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the village’s cave. The view from the cave was truly spectacular, providing a perfect photo opportunity.
End your day with a delightful meal at Boca, a Dutch-owned restaurant in Ojén. The modern tapas, made with fresh, local ingredients, combined with the charming setting, make for a memorable dining experience.
Day 4: The historical gem of Ronda
Start your day with an early drive to the enchanting city of Ronda. The one-hour journey through rolling hills and olive groves is a visual delight, passing by the famous Caminito Del Rey and El Chorro Lakes. Upon arrival, park conveniently in the city center, where you’ll find the affordable all-day parking Martinez Astein.
Begin your exploration in the new city of Ronda, with your first stop at Calle La Bola, the city’s main shopping street. This bustling area is lined with a mix of local craft shops and well-known clothing brands. Continue your walk to the Plaza del Toros, one of Spain’s oldest bullrings, dating back to 1785. While the museum inside offers insights into the history of bullfighting, a tip from a friend suggests visiting the rooftop terrace at the Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria across the street. Here, you can enjoy a glass of wine and lunch, while taking in breathtaking views of the bullring and the surrounding landscape.
After a relaxing lunch, make your way to Mirador de Ronda, a viewpoint with a spectacular view over the Tajo de Ronda and the surrounding mountains. Take your time to capture some photos and soak in the view before moving on.
From the Mirador de Rondq, continue your walk towards the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge. This impressive bridge spans the deep gorge of the Tajo and offers a stunning view over the city and nature. The bridge is one of Ronda's most iconic landmarks and is a must-see on your visit.
Once you crossed the bridge, head towards Sendero Ronda. This is a short but challenging walk to a viewpoint where you can admire the Puento Nuevo from below. For the best experience, visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the heat and crowds. Don’t forget to bring water and a hat for the 10-minute walk, because it gets hot, during the summer.
Continue your exploration through the old town of Ronda, where narrow streets lined with orange trees. As you walk through the historic center, you'll eventually reach the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor. Next, walk towards the Puerta de Almocábar, an impressive stone gate dating back to the 13th century. From here, you can continue along the old city walls, known as the Murallas de la Cijara and del Carmen. Take a leisurely stroll along these walls and enjoy the view of the city and the surrounding nature.
Along the way, you'll come across the Banos Arabes Yacimiento, a medieval Arab bathhouse that is a fascinating stop for history lovers. Continue a little further to the Puento Viejo, a beautiful old stone bridge that offers yet another fantastic view.
From the Puento Viejo, walk back up through the Puerta de la Cijara and return to Ronda's old town. Finish your walk with a refreshing drink in the town.
As you wander through Ronda’s narrow streets, you might even encounter a peacock casually strutting around, adding a magical touch to your visit. After a day filled with history, culture, and stunning views, take a scenic route back to Finca Viva la Vida, where you can unwind with a delightful paella night at the B&B.
Day 5: Hiking the Caminito del Rey
Day 5 is perfect for an adventurous hike along the famous Caminito del Rey. Spend the morning relaxing by the pool at your B&B before heading out for your guided tour at 5 PM. From Finca Viva la Vida, it’s just a 20-minute drive to El Chorro, where you can park your car and take a bus to the trail entrance. For those short on time, driving directly to the main entrance and parking there is a convenient option. After completing the trail, the bus will take you back to your parking area.
Pro tip: Make sure to book your reservations well in advance, as this is one of the main tourist attractions in the region. We booked our tickets two weeks ahead and still found limited options. Also, be sure to check your email for instructions: they ask you to arrive an hour beforehand. We missed this detail and barely made it to our 5 PM appointment, the last slot. Arriving early is crucial!
Walking the Caminito del Rey was an absolutely breathtaking experience. The natural beauty along the trail was simply stunning, with the vibrant colors of the landscape coming to life as the sun began to set.
Parking tip: If you park your car at the end point, you’ll save time by not needing to take the bus back.
The Caminito del Rey offers a unique adventure with stunning views over the gorge. The 7 km trail is an easy walk, even in the heat, and the experience is well worth the effort. Whether you choose a guided tour or explore on your own, this hike is a must-visit on your Andalucía itinerary.
Day 6: The enchanting Nerja and Frigiliana
Frigiliana is a picturesque white-washed village, and it’s consider to be the most beautiful one. Start your day by parking in the village center, where you can immediately begin exploring the charming streets lined with whitewashed houses and vibrant flowers. Frigiliana’s narrow streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll and the boutique shops offer unique local crafts and souvenirs.
One of the highlights of Frigiliana is the small walk to the top of the village, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Take a moment to relax at a café and enjoy a refreshing drink while soaking in the panoramic views.
Don’t miss the iconic streets of Calle Real and Calle Alta, where beautiful mosaics represent the village’s rich history. After spending about two hours exploring, continue your journey to the stunning coastal town of Nerja, just a 20-minute drive away.
Your next stop, Nerja, is the perfect blend of beaches and culture. Take some time to explore the charming old town of Nerja. Wander through the narrow streets and visit local shops. The old town is a great place to pick up some souvenirs and enjoy a traditional meal. The highlight of any visit to Nerja is the Balcón de Europa, a magnificent viewpoint offering beautiful views over the beaches and shoreline. This is the perfect place to start your day, taking in the beauty of the coastline and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Don’t forget your camera, as the views are picture-perfect
After taking in the stunning views, head to one of Nerja’s beaches to relax and unwind, each offering its unique charm: La Caletilla beach, Calahonda beach, Carabeo beach …
After spending a relaxing day at the beach, you have a few delightful options to savor one last taste of Spain. If you’re still in Nerja, you can choose from a variety of charming restaurants. Alternatively, you might decide to head back to Málaga, where the bustling city offers endless dining possibilities. Enjoy the city's energy one last time as you indulge in some of Spain’s finest cuisine.
Day 7: Departure and last-minute shopping
With a few hours to spare before your flight, enjoy a leisurely morning with one last delicious breakfast at Finca Viva la Vida. After packing your bags and checking out, head to the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet near Málaga airport for some last-minute shopping. This open-air mall offers a wide array of popular brands like Calvin Klein, Guess, and Levi’s, making it the perfect place to pick up some new clothes.
As you stroll through the mall, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and take in the final moments of your Andalusian adventure. After your shopping, make your way to the airport, reflecting on the beautiful memories you’ve made during your stay.
Andalucía is a place that captured our hearts, leaving you with a treasure of memories and a promise to return.
Until next time, Andalucía, ¡Hasta luego!