Hiking La Concha (Pico de la Concha)

The mountain over Marbella

That mountain behind the beach? It has a name, and it is closer than it looks. Twenty-five minutes up from the coast the trail leaves Refugio de Juanar, climbs through pine forest and olive groves, and comes out on the rocky ridge of La Concha, just over 1,200 metres above the sea. From the top the whole Marbella coastline is laid out below, and on a clear day you can see all the way to Africa. Our favourite kind of day: start early, earn the view, and be back down for a long lunch.

What

The classic route (PR-A 168) starts at Refugio de Juanar and follows the yellow-and-white marked path up the ridge — about fourteen kilometres return and six to seven hours in total. The last stretch is rocky with drops on either side and a short roped section, so bring good shoes and more water than you think you need, and turn back if cloud moves in. Not one for small children, but no climbing skills needed.

Where

Start at Refugio de Juanar, up the signposted MA-469 road off the A-355 above Ojén — about 25 minutes' drive from Marbella. The hotel car park is open to day visitors.

How long

A full day — around six to seven hours up and down.

Cost

Free.