Los Cahorros de Monachil is a river gorge in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, in the municipality of Monachil, a village just south-east of Granada, Andalusia, Spain. The Río Monachil has cut a narrow limestone canyon where a path follows the water, crossing it on several hanging bridges and passing short rock passages and a small waterfall. The village is the usual start and the route is a loop of about 7–8 km that takes 3–4 hours. It is classed moderate because of narrow ledges with steel cables, short scrambles and slippery rock, not because of distance or altitude. No permit or ticket is needed. The bus from Granada is line 183 (about 20–30 minutes) and drivers park in Monachil village. Part of the canyon has previously closed after storm damage, so visitors check current access before going. Shade in the canyon is good but the exposed return section on the hillside is hot in summer. There are no huts or shops on the trail, so water and food are carried in. Many walkers turn back after the last hanging bridge for a shorter out-and-back of about 2.5 hours. Monachil village has bars and restaurants for lunch afterwards.
| Distance | About 7–8 km round trip |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3–4 hours including photo stops |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Best season | April–June and September–November; avoid after heavy rain |
| Address | Puente de Monachil, 18193 Monachil, Granada, Spain (the trail starts at the river bridge in the village) |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Monachil, Sierra Nevada foothills (about 8 km south-east of Granada)
What to bring
Walking shoes with grip, 1.5 L of water, light jacket and swimwear in warm months; daylight only
Location
Puente de Monachil, 18193 Monachil, Granada, Spain (the trail starts at the river bridge in the village)
37.1296, -3.5345 View on map
Highlights
- Series of hanging bridges across the Río Monachil in a narrow limestone gorge
- Short rock passages with fixed cables and a small waterfall
- Free to walk and reachable by metropolitan bus from Granada
- Optional shorter out-and-back turning at the last bridge
Tips for visiting
- Go on a weekday or early morning, as weekends are busy and narrow ledges form queues
- Wear shoes with grip: wet rock in the canyon is slippery
- Check that the whole gorge is open with the Monachil town hall before travelling
- Take the 183 bus on weekdays; Sunday service is limited so check the return time
- Bring water and a snack because there are no shops on the path
- Avoid the route after heavy rain or in storm warnings
When to visit
April–June for water and green slopes, or September–October for cooler temperatures. Mornings avoid crowds and heat.
Accessibility
The path is a narrow natural trail with ledges, cables and bridges, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Visitors with limited mobility can enjoy the first flat stretch along the river.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Los Cahorros from Granada without a car?
Take metropolitan bus line 183 from Granada (stop near the Puente Blanco, Paseo de los Basilios) to Monachil, about 20–30 minutes. Confirm times at consorciotransportes-granada.com, as Sunday service is limited.
How long is the hike?
The full loop is about 7–8 km and takes 3–4 hours. Turning back after the last bridge takes about 2.5 hours.
Is it suitable for children?
Fit children used to walking can manage the shorter out-and-back, but the narrow ledges and drops need close supervision.
Is there an entrance fee?
No. The trail is free, though guided half-day multi-adventure trips with rappelling are available from local operators.