Itinerary
The fact that this section is shorter does not mean it demands less physical effort than the previous ones. The big gradients, ascent or descent, are continuous throughout the whole route, except the part within the meadow of La Escribana and San Juan inn. Even though this stretch is almost flat, it has some risks, like floods or landslides due to the river’s proximity and the route passing through unstable areas. It may be impossible at times to wade through Monardilla river, close to San Juan campsite, might be impossible due to river swellings. We will pass through the short stretch from the way MA-8305 (Algatocín-Jubrique) to the point where the path splits from the hill walking on the roadside and taking shortcuts in a couple of curves, so we will need to be careful with cars. From the meadow of La Escribana to Benalauría, we will run into the GR-249 Gran Senda de Málaga but in the opposite direction. We highly recommend using telescopic poles.
Summary
This section offers the best of the Genal valley: the cork oaks, the meadows and vegetable gardens, the mills and the river, with its particular ecosystem; the mountain farms, the polyculture, the muleteers’ paths, the chestnut grove and the Andalusian architecture, very characteristic in this area of the Serranía de Ronda. From the beginning, we will continue going down until we reach the meadow of La Escribana. From that crossroads, an old resting place for cattle, where the river Almárchar, which comes from Sierra Bermeja, flows into the river Genal, we will walk on a recovered path parallel to the course of the Genal river. San Juan inn and the campsites placed at both shores, make this place one of the most visited, especially during the summer, when several pools are set up to bathe in the river. The climb up to Benalauría will include some steep slopes, although the foliage is always helpful to alleviate our effort. Once we reach the chestnut grove, the environment changes and, with Benalauría faraway, the walk becomes easier.
The best
The Great Serranía de Ronda Path is a circular walk which allows us to see a great part of the Serranía de Ronda through its six stages.
It is well known that one of the best ways to explore a place is by visiting its countryside and enjoying the landscape away from the roads. This is definitely the case of the Serranía de Ronda, as here, due to some practical reasons, the modern roads were not made over the old roads which had connected villages like in some other areas.
Actually, there is a whole world full of stories, legends, fountains, springs, old farmsteads, mills and houses waiting to be discovered. You just need to park your car, put your hiking boots on and follow the path.
The Great Serranía de Ronda Path is waiting for you. Moreover, you will not be alone on this trip. The trail goes through most of the small villages in the Serranía de Ronda, where you can get some rest and have a meal in its small bars or restaurants, buy food for your trip or even stay overnight in country houses or small hotels.
This trail shows the best part of the Genal Valley. You will go downwards from the start to the field called Prado de la Escribana. From this crossroads, walk along a restored path which is alongside the Genal river. San Juan Inn and the camp sites at each side of the river are the reasons why this is one of the most popular natural beauty spots, especially in summer. The way up to Benalauría has some steep slopes. Once you get at a chestnut trees forest, the trail becomes easier.