Camino de Gibralfaro (path to Gibralfaro Castle)

The Camino de Gibralfaro is the paved path that climbs Monte Gibralfaro from beside the Alcazaba in the centre of Málaga, Andalusia, Spain, to Gibralfaro Castle at the summit. The trailhead lies about 10 minutes on foot from Plaza de la Constitución, and the path begins at the Camino de Gibralfaro in the 29016 postcode area next to the Alcazaba. No permit is required to walk the path, though the castle charges a separate entry fee at the top. Visitors who prefer not to walk can take the EMT Málaga bus to the castle, with timetables on emtmalaga.es. Parking at the foot is limited, so walking from the old town is the usual approach. The route covers about 1.2 km one-way with roughly 130 m of ascent. The climb takes 30 to 45 minutes and the descent 20 to 30 minutes, making it easy by distance and elevation, although the gradient is steady and the steps can feel demanding in heat. The surface is paved path and steps, with stretches of stone and some uneven edges. Exposure to sun is high on the lower sections, while pines and trees provide patches of shade higher up. The path passes viewpoints over the Alcazaba, the Roman theatre and the cathedral, with views widening to the port, the bullring and the Mediterranean as height increases. Gibralfaro Castle, built on the hill above the old Moorish fortress district, and its ramparts form the main landmark at the top, where a walkway along the walls gives panoramic views across Málaga bay. Natural turn-around points are the viewpoints on the bends; those who turn back before the castle still gain good views of the Alcazaba. A café and drinking facilities are available around the castle, though visitors normally carry their own water on the way up. The path is open to the public and busiest at midday in summer, so early morning or early evening is recommended.