The famous Caminito del Rey route, once notorious for its perilous conditions, has been fully restored and is now safe for all tourists. During my time in Granada, I learned about this thrilling hike nestled in a remote corner of Andalucía, known for its breathtaking views and heart-pounding heights.
The Allure of the Caminito del Rey
Caminito del Rey, or “The King’s Little Pathway,” is over 100 years old and stands 100 meters (350 feet) high. This narrow concrete path clings to steep limestone cliffs near the village of El Chorro, winding through a dramatic canyon landscape. Famous for its former state of disrepair, the path was once known as the most dangerous walkway in the world, attracting adrenaline junkies and rock climbers eager to test their limits.
Hiking the Caminito del Rey
The hike spans approximately 3 kilometers (about 1.9 miles), and while it has become a popular adventure sport, remnants of its treacherous past add to its allure. The trail features numerous sections where concrete has collapsed, leaving narrow steel beams or even sheer rock faces to navigate.
A via ferrata cable runs the length of the path, allowing hikers to clip in with a harness for added safety. While I chose to bring my own gear, including a homemade Swiss Seat, it’s crucial to note that the cable’s integrity is not officially maintained, so hikers must use it at their own risk.
Equipped with my trusty Luna Sandals and a backpack full of gear, I completed the hike multiple times, documenting my experience with a GoPro camera.
The Experience: Dangerous and Beautiful
As I traversed the Caminito, the wind whipped through the canyon, intensifying the thrill of each step. The narrow path tested my nerves, especially when passing other hikers on the one-meter-wide walkway. In some sections, the path had completely eroded, forcing me to balance on beams just a few inches wide or cling to the rock face.
The Caminito del Rey is divided into two sections, each offering stunning views of the Gaitanes Gorge and a hidden valley known as “The Valley of the Orange.” This secluded area is surrounded by mountains and features orange trees growing along the Guadalhorce River, complete with an ancient ruined house at the valley’s base.
The second part of the walkway is less frequented and often lacks safety lines, requiring some rock climbing skills to navigate certain sketchy sections. After about three hours, I reached the far end of the valley, grateful to have completed the adventure safely.
History of the Path
Originally completed in 1905, the walkway was constructed to facilitate the transport of materials between two hydroelectric power plants at Chorro Falls and Gaitanejo Falls. The suspended catwalk provided access to a water canal that ran through the mountains, allowing for inspections and maintenance.
The path was inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII in 1921, which is how it earned its name. The King walked the length of the trail to admire the stunning landscape.
Dangers and Restorations
Tragically, the Caminito del Rey has been the site of several fatalities, with at least five deaths reported, the most recent in 2000. Lack of maintenance since the 1920s had led to severe deterioration, with rusting metal supports and missing sections contributing to its dangerous reputation.
In 2015, a €3.12 million restoration project transformed the walkway into a much safer path. The aging concrete was replaced with wooden slats and glass panels, complete with handrails, making it accessible to a broader range of visitors. While this has opened up the trail to more tourists, it has also diminished the once-adventurous spirit of the hike.
I feel fortunate to have experienced the Caminito del Rey in its wild state, a thrilling adventure that will remain a cherished memory. Whether you seek adrenaline or simply wish to appreciate breathtaking views, the Caminito del Rey is a remarkable journey through one of Spain’s most stunning landscapes.
