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Andalucian Trails at Christmas

Away from the coastline, the quiet villages of Competa and Capileira take us to a hidden world of deepest Andalucia. The network of paths, passing olive groves and orchards, cross the region and offer panoramic views as we go.

  • Andalucia

  • Half Board
  • Festive

    Landscape

    Mountains

  • Dec

  • Average group size: 10-12 per grade

What does this mean?

Grade Moderate/Challenging

Moderate/Challenging

What does this mean?

14 Nights

From

£2,499
With flights and transfers
£1,919
Without flights
View Dates & Book Now Group Booking of 8+
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Walking grade

Grade 5

Grade 6

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks.

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

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Classic Collection

Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.

Overview

Holiday Highlights

  • Enjoy hill walking in the Sierra Almijara and Sierra Tejeda with fantastic views over the valleys.
  • Admire the traditional Andalucian Pueblos Blancos dotted throughout the landscape.
  • Walk to the hillside town of Frigiliana with valley and distant sea views.
  • Explore the charming town of Competa with its magnificent 16th century church and shaded plazas.
  • Explore the trails of the Poqueira Gorge.
  • Picturesque panoramas with snow-capped mountains or springtime blossom.
  • Ascend the 2500m Peña Bon above Trevélez.

This holiday combines our Walking in Competa and High in the Alpujarras holidays.

Explore the captivating charm of Andalusia, where picturesque white villages perch on majestic hillsides, basking in the golden rays of the sun against the stunning backdrop of Sierra Almijara. As you wander through the labyrinthine cobbled streets, you'll uncover the hidden treasures of orchard valleys, olive groves, and authentic rural life in this enchanting region.

Cómpeta, an Andalusian gem nestled in the Axarquia region, remains one of southern Spain's best-kept secrets. Steeped in Moorish history, this active farming town is renowned for its production of almonds, olives, avocados, and even its own wine. The old town exudes charm, boasting two 18th-century chapels, San Sebastian and San Anton, while the magnificent 16th-century Church of Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion presides over the bustling Plaza Almijara, Competa's heart and soul.

Our well-established network of footpaths allows you to embark on a journey through the hills, offering a mix of short and long walks that lead you to charming villages, providing a glimpse into the traditional essence of Andalusia. As you ascend to the high country, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas and occasional glimpses of the Mediterranean in the distance.

To the south of the Sierra Nevada range and north of the Sierras of Lujar, La Contraviesa, and Gador, lie the Alpujarras Valleys. We have been exploring this hidden and relatively unknown area of Andalusia since 1990. Our experienced leaders have an intimate knowledge of the trails, ensuring an unparalleled adventure.

Capileira, our chosen base at an elevation of 1300m, is a picturesque pueblo blanco perched above the Poqueira Gorge. Here, you'll immerse yourself in the dramatic landscape of terraced orchards, vineyards, and olive groves irrigated by deep gorges. Countless scenic paths crisscross the village, and this rugged yet stunningly beautiful area includes mainland Spain's highest peak, Mulhacen, soaring to 3479m. Weather permitting, we'll ascend its slopes for awe-inspiring views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Mediterranean to the south.

Another captivating walk begins at your hotel and winds through six local villages, where red peppers and onions dry in the sun against whitewashed walls, and life unfolds at a leisurely pace. The circular Route of the Acequias transports you deep into the wild and remote valley beneath Mulhacen, tracing ancient irrigation channels.

Your journey culminates in Trevelez, Spain's highest village at 1700m, reached via a stunning traverse along the GR 240, a long-distance footpath known as 'Sulayr,' named after the Moors' moniker for the Sierra Nevada - the Mountains of the Sun.

Capileira, with its charming cobbled alleyways, artisan shops, and restaurants serving delectable Alpujarran cuisine, invites you to savour the flavours of the region. As the locals say, '¡Aqui se come muy bien!' – Here, one eats very well!


Please note: the walking on the second week in Capileira is top of a Grade 6. Please ensure your insurance policy covers you for walking up to 2700m  

  • Return flights from London to Malaga.
  • Airport Transfers.
  • En suite three-star hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis.
  • Half board with dinners taken at a mix of our hotels and local restaurants.
  • All local transport required for the itinerary by private coach.
  • Local hotel taxes.
  • Services of a Classic Tour Leader.
  • Entrance fees (unless otherwise specified)
  • Personal expenses (such as your bar bill)
  • Discretionary tips
  • Optional excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Holiday Information

Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.

NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen

View Holiday Information Sheet

Tour Codes

14160

Itinerary & Travel

Itinerary Details

Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.

Your Itinerary

Day 1

Competa

Meals

Dinner

Accommodation

Arrive at Malaga Airport and transfer by road to (1.5 hours) to the village of Competa and your hotel, the Hotel Balcon de Competa, where you stay for 7 nights' accommodation. If flight times allow, there will be a short introductory village walk before dinner. Please be aware that dinners in Spain are taken later than in the UK, expect to sit down for dinner between 8-8:30pm. 

Transfer Time = 1.5 hours

Day 2 to 7

Competa

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Located in the Axarquia region of Andalucía, Competa is approx. seven hundred metres above sea level and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, countryside and Mediterranean, and is best known to many for its locally produced wine. The white-washed village is fascinating to explore with its labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets that date back to Moorish times. The walks programme for the week takes you into valleys, with walks alongside streams, to hill tops offering panoramic views over the countryside side and to the mountains beyond as well as to Andalucian white-washed villages. This area has a strong Moorish influence as can be seen in the houses, cobbled streets and village fountains.

An example of the walks that have been planned to be included in your programme (dependent on weather conditions and the ability of the group) are as follows:

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    10 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    550m

Cerro Del Agua: A good introductory walk direct from the hotel. Exploring the valley of the Rio Llanada and climbing to the ridge of Cerro Del Agua before dropping down to the valley of Rio Cajula and returning to Competa via the village of Canillas.

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    11 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    580/855m

Casa De La Mina and Cerro Gavilan: A lovely walk into the high mountain terrain north of Competa with a remote feel. Beautiful views of the Sierra Almijara to the north and to the coast, returning along an old mule track to Competa.

  • Time

    5.5 hours

  • Distance

    8.6 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    745m

Puerto Blanquillo: From Fabrica De La Luz the walk is through a delightful unspoilt valley and penetrates well into the high sierras to reach Puerto Blanquillo

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    10.9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    430/730m

Frigiliana: A gentle walk along the valley of the river Torrox, with wonderful scenery and views down to the coast. You visit the “lost village” of Acebuchal, and there is time to explore the whitewashed inland village of Frigiliana before returning to Competa.

  • Time

    5 hours

  • Distance

    9.2 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    690m

Salares: A good long top of the grade walk offers wide vistas involving significant descents and ascents as you make your way to the ‘Moorish’ village of Salares. Here you’ll find a local bar for well-earned refreshments.

Day 8

Competa to Capileira

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Transfer by coach today between the two centres. Check into the Hotel Finca los Llanos, a beautifully located property on the edge of the village of Capileira. Settle in and learn about your grade 6 walks for the following week at this evening's briefing.

Day 9 to 14

Capileira

Meals

Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

During your time in Capileira the walks will take you along mule tracks and hillside paths through the Andalucian white-washed villages, into the Poqueira Gorge, down into the Poqueira Valley and up towards Mulhacen, the highest mountain in Iberia. Picturesque viewpoints, splendid lunch spots and Moorish history awaits you. There will also be a day at leisure for you to explore on your own, relax at the hotel or a possible extra excursion. An example of some of the walks that have been planned to be included in your programme (dependent on weather conditions and the ability of the group) are as follows:

  • Time

    4.30 hours

  • Distance

    9 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    400/650m

The Six Villages Walk: A classic exploration of typical Alpujarras white villages, little changed since Moorish times. This is a walk out of the hotel and over the low ridge to the south east of our village. Following tracks and mule paths through gentle countryside and quiet villages, you finish the day in Mecina where you can have refreshments as you wait for the bus to take you back up to Capileira.

  • Time

    4.5 hours

  • Distance

    9.5 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    800/900m

Route of the Acequias:  You take transport high into the Sierras (up to almost 2000m) and join a narrow path along the bank of the Acequia Baja, continuing along the route of the Acequias and climb to the higher channel with spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, You stop for a picnic lunch at San Tomas before heading down to the Poqueira Gorge, the route meanders through the jumbled rocks of the valley floor before arriving at a shady stream junction. You follow the path down to the abandoned village, La Cebadilla and back to Capileira in time for drink.

  • Time

    5.30 hours

  • Distance

    10 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    700/900m

The Sulayr Path to Trevelez GR240: A beautiful linear walk along the GR240, over high open moor, to the village of Trevelez. The main climbing comes at the start of the day, through pine forests, before opening out to give fantastic views as we descend into the Trevelez valley. Time for exploration & refreshments in Trevelez, before a bus back to Capileira.

  • Time

    5.30 hours

  • Distance

    11 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    800m

Refugio de Poqueira: At 3479m above sea level, Mulhacen is the highest mountain in Iberia. Weather permitting, a walk high on its slopes will take you to the remotely placed Alpine refuge of Poqueira. From the end of the old Nevada mountain road at Hoyo del Portillo you follow well-cairned forest paths to a lofty viewpoint from where you may with luck be able to spot the Rif mountains of Morocco on the horizon. From here a long steady climb on good tracks through high mountain terrain leads to the refuge. Occasionally small patches of easy angled snow may have to be crossed! After lunch, being careful not to disturb the ibex, you circle back to the start on the remains of the old mountain road, pausing at the Mirador de Trevelez at the edge of the ridge for views of the Trevelez valley and village, far below. Please note: early and late in season this walk may not be possible because of snow cover, but there are many fine alternatives possible just below the snow level. 

  • Time

    5.30 hours

  • Distance

    10.2 miles

  • Ascent/Descent

    800m

The Acequias of the Toril Valley: This lovely circuit climbs good paths directly from the hotel to gain the old Moorish watercourses at nearly 2000m and follows them to the head of the Toril valley and a delightful picnic spot for lunch by the river. In the afternoon you will descend steadily into the dramatic Poqueira gorge, cross the charming stone bridge of Chiscar, and make a stiff little climb back up to Capileira for well-merited refreshments in the village plaza.

Day 15

Final day

Meals

Breakfast

After breakfast, you head back to Malaga airport for your flight back to the UK.

From (GBP)£2,499 With flights and transfers

Departure dates for your selected tour

21st Dec 2026 - 4th Jan 2027 (14 Nights)

Travel Details

  • Return flights from London to Malaga 
  • Airport transfers by road approx. 1.5 hours
  • We can offer regional flight options but due to the location and travelling time to our resort we operate just one transfer coach between the airport and our hotel to coincide with our main group. This may mean that there is a wait at the overseas airport in one or both directions.

Accommodation

Accommodation information

Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.

Hotel Balcon de Competa

You stay at the friendly three-star Hotel Balcon de Competa in the dramatically set Competa.

White houses with balconies bursting with flowers crossed by sinuous streets characterise the town, and surround the hotel. You will also enjoy modern amenities inside, with free Wi-Fi, swimming pool (although this may not be in use year round), tennis court, restaurant, cafeteria and bar in the gardens.  

A hint of the walking to come can be seen in the countryside around the town, with views of La Almijara mountain range and the Mounts of the Axarquía dotted with vineyards. On the horizon, the unmistakable blue of the Mediterranean.

Rooms are well equipped with:

  • Ensuite facilities 
  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryer
  • TV
  • Mountain View
  • Sole use rooms will be a double/twin for sole occupancy.


The reception at this hotel is not 24 hours. Please familiarise yourself with the emergency procedures upon arrival 

Hotel Finca Los Llanos

The rustic Finca Los Llanos is conveniently located in Capileira with the village amenities including cafes, restaurants, supermarket, bank and bakery all close by. In the heart of the Alpujarras, it is one of Los Pueblos Blancos, and offers wonderful views from its terrace across the valley. The hotel's swimming pool is open May-October, and there is also a quiet terrace, lounge/bar and restaurant.

The hotel has 44 rooms, distributed over three buildings, which are named after three writers who left their mark in the Alpujarra - Brenan, Irving and Lorca. Rooms are equipped with:

  • Ensuite facilities
  • Hairdryer
  • TV
  • Telephone 
  • Mini-fridge
  • Complimentary wi-fi is available in the hotel's public areas


Trip Information

All the details you need

Holiday Grade

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks.

The above statistics are generalisations of a day’s key walk, it does not include distance covered during general sightseeing or daily activity. Detailed information of the daily walking requirements are specified in the specific holidays ‘Daily Itinerary".

Walks & Excursions

Optional Excursions

At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.

Spending Money

Currency in Spain

The currency in Spain is the euro. You may wish to take some euro cash with you until you reach an ATM. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller towns and rural areas.

Tour Leaders & Local Guides

Tour Leaders

Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations.  Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.

Your Travel Details

Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements

If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.

Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.

If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.

Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.

Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.

Personal Details Check

Please ensure your personal details, including your passport information and date of birth, are accurate and up to date, and that we have all the information needed to arrange your holiday. If you have any dietary allergies or intolerances, please let us know.

You can view and update your details using Manage My Booking on our website or by contacting our Sales & Reservations team on +44 (0)1707 331133. Please check your booking confirmation carefully and notify us of any changes as soon as possible.

Passports and Visas

European Passport Advice

For the latest passport requirements and entry guidance for your destination,  please check the GOV.UK Foreign Travel Advice website before you travel.

If you are travelling on a non-British passport, please check entry requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate.

Footwear & Kit List

Footwear

Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good, moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.

General Kit List

Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.

If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:

  • Waterproof jacket (Goretex or similar) and trousers
  • Lightweight quick-drying trousers
  • Walking T-shirt/shirts
  • Walking socks
  • Fleece or jumper
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, lip salve and sun block
  • Warm hat and gloves (if appropriate)
  • Swimwear & towel (if appropriate)
  • Day sack (this should be able to carry all you would need for the day's activity)
  • Day sack liner
  • Water bottle - at least 1 litre capacity (more than 1 bottle may be required)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Lunchbox
  • Walking poles (should you find them useful)
  • Sit mat

This list is not exhaustive, and every walker is different and may have their own preference.

Electricity in Spain

Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/

Staying Healthy On Holiday

Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Health Advice for Spain

For the latest health advice and entry requirements for Spain, please visit the GOV.UK travel advice for Spain and NaTHNaC.

Further Travel Advice

For further advice please visit:

You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.

Travel Insurance

It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.

The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses, mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.

Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.

If you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.

If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you are unable to demonstrate that you are insured.

If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland, please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.

EHIC & GHIC Cards

Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.

It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.

For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic

Personal Safety

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.

When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!

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Useful Information

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Spain

  • Capital

    Madrid

  • Currency

    Euro

  • Language

    Spanish

  • Time Difference

    UTC +02:00, UTC +01:00

  • Flight duration

    2.5hrs from UK

Visas and Passports

No Visa Required

Average weather

  • January

    9°C

    Avg. Rain: 59mm

  • February

    10°C

    Avg. Rain: 51mm

  • March

    12°C

    Avg. Rain: 47mm

  • April

    14°C

    Avg. Rain: 49mm

  • May

    16°C

    Avg. Rain: 42mm

  • June

    20°C

    Avg. Rain: 27mm

  • July

    23°C

    Avg. Rain: 14mm

  • August

    23°C

    Avg. Rain: 18mm

  • September

    21°C

    Avg. Rain: 37mm

  • October

    17°C

    Avg. Rain: 61mm

  • November

    13°C

    Avg. Rain: 69mm

  • December

    10°C

    Avg. Rain: 69mm

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