Coastal Walk: Playa de los Cárabos to Punta del Rostro

The Coastal Walk from Playa de los Carabos to Punta del Rostro is a 5-km one-way route — 10 km as a return walk — following the rugged southern shoreline of Melilla, a Spanish autonomous city on the northern tip of Morocco. The trailhead at Playa de los Carabos is reached by taxi from the city centre for approximately 5-6 euros, a journey of around 10 minutes; no formal parking area is designated at the start, and no permits are required. The path follows the shoreline at largely coastal level with total elevation changes under 20 metres, though steady footing is required over rocky sections that become more pronounced approaching Punta del Rostro. Surface conditions change considerably along the route: the opening stretch from the Carabos beach uses compacted dirt track with some loose gravel, the central section crosses bare rock and natural stone ledges, and the final approach to the cape involves boulder-hopping over volcanic rock. Shade is minimal throughout as the route follows open coastline almost entirely; sun protection is essential in any season. Key features include the volcanic rock formations and tidal pools at Playa de los Carabos, a succession of small unnamed coves accessible only on foot that offer calm swimming spots, a mid-route headland with views toward the Spanish mainland across the Alboran Sea, and the lighthouse and historic defensive installations marking Punta del Rostro at the southernmost point of Spanish territory. A natural turnaround option exists at approximately 4 km where a dirt track cuts inland to a paved road, providing an exit for walkers who prefer not to complete the full distance or want to avoid the rockiest final section. No water sources, kiosks, or shelter structures exist anywhere along the route; walkers must carry all water, with a minimum of 1.5 litres recommended. Return transport from Punta del Rostro is by taxi, reachable at +34 952 673 333; mobile signal at the cape can be intermittent, so arranging the return pickup in advance is advisable.