The Andalucian Coast to Coast Walk

Book excerpt: Devised with the aim of linking the two great seas that cradle Andalucía, the Andalucian Coast to Coast Walk crosses the heart of southern Spain, from the small Mediterranean village of Maro to Bolonia beach on the Atlantic seaboard, a day's walk from the bustling port of Tarifa. A village-to-village walk, the 416km trail follows the Penibetic mountain range across the provinces of Málaga, Granada and Cádiz, passing through six beautiful Natural Parks and visiting some of the region's most picturesque and characterful towns and villages, including Ronda. This guide presents the waymarked route in 21 day stages, each with clear route description and mapping and notes on the villages and other local points of interest. You'll find all the practical information needed to plan and execute a successful trip, with advice on when to go, transport, accommodation and food. Useful contacts and a Spanish-English glossary can be found in the appendices. Boasting magnificent mountain scenery, charming villages and a rich and fascinating history, it is little surprise that Andalucía has long been popular with visitors. The Andalucian Coast to Coast Walk showcases the vibrant culture and enchanting landscapes for which the region is famed: it takes in mountain views and dramatic gorges, flower-strewn valleys and cultivated fruit groves, with highlights including Moorish Ronda, Roman ruins at Bolonia and the traditional 'pueblos blancos' (white villages).