If you’re a returning guest to the south of Spain, chances are you’ll already have marvelled at its main sites and are looking for slightly more unusual things to do in Andalucia on your next visit. We’ve carved up the region into its 8 provinces and provided you with novel ideas for activities in each. From cave dwellings in Granada to the “Strangest town in Spain”, we’re bound to have something to capture your imagination. Read on to feel inspired… Unusual things to do in Málaga Visit the Caves of Nerja An hour’s drive East along the coast from Malaga city leads you to the beautiful beachside town of Nerja. It’s known for its crystal clear waters and secluded coves, but the town has more to offer than pretty beaches. If you fancy doing something different in Nerja, then head for its caves. Situated a five-minute drive beyond the town are some of the most beautiful underground caverns in Spain. This labyrinth of subterranean tunnels and chambers covers a distance of over 5km and can be accessed via three entrances at ground level. The caves are divided into three sections- the show gallery, upper gallery and new gallery- each containing within them a number of separate halls. One of these – Hall of the Cataclysm – is home to the world’s largest stalagmite, measuring over 32 metres in length. The caves are open 7 days a week and offer a range of entrance options, from nocturnal visits to fully guided tours. For ticket prices and opening hours, check out the Caves of Nerja website. Walk the Caminito del Rey If you’re after unusual things to do in the Malaga province, then the Caminito del Rey should be top of your list. The Caminito del Rey is one of the most famous walks in Spain: 8km of narrow trails gripping the side of a cliff face suspended 100 metres above ground level. Having previously fallen into a state of disrepair, 2015 saw a newly restored Caminito del Rey – or King’s Pathway- reopened to the public. Walking the Caminito del Rey is not for the faint-hearted, and the plunging views are sure to strike dread into the heart of vertigo sufferers. But, for those brave enough, tackling the walk makes for an unforgettable experience. The Caminito is set in miles of luscious parkland, with emerald green lakes and pine forests surrounding it, and provides a beautiful backdrop for some unforgettable photo opportunities. You can get tickets for the Caminito del Rey on the official website, but be sure to book in advance as they tend to sell out quickly. Go to El Torcal National Park One of the best things to do in Malaga is to visit its national parklands. And they don’t get more beautiful, or more unusual, than El Torcal. Situated a half hour drive outside Antequera, the looming, jagged mountain ranges of El Torcal are truly something to behold. El Torcal dates back to prehistoric times when the mountain and all that surrounded it was at the bottom of the Tetis sea. Over thousands of years, ruptures in tectonic plates gradually forced the seabed upwards to form the mountains and boulder-strewn wilds that can be seen today. The park is littered with curiously shaped rock formations, so precariously balanced that they seem to have been arranged by a giant, unseen hand. The unusual forms of these rocks can be attributed to millions of years of wind and water damage gradually winnowing them down to their current state. The park is home to a myriad of flora and fauna, including orchids, golden eagles and wildcats. There are a variety of walking trails throughout El Torcal National park, colour coded in terms of difficulty, and a visitors’ centre, museum and restaurant. The park is open 7 days a week and can be accessed by car, or via a courtesy bus that runs regularly from the car park at the foot of the mountain. Unusual Things to do in Granada See the views from Abadia del Sacromonte Google “things to do in Granada” and chances are “visit the Alhambra” will be top of the list. But, if you’ve already been, can’t get tickets, or fancy escaping the crowds, there are alternative spots in the city to soak up the incredible views. A bracing climb up the Valparaiso hill, opposite the Alhambra palace, will lead you to this secluded, 17th-century abbey. On the way, you’ll pass through the beautiful neighbourhood of Sacromonte, famous for its cave dwellings and gypsy flamenco. For those who don’t fancy the hike, the abbey can also be accessed by the C2 bus from the city centre. From the abbey’s mirador – or viewing platform- you will be treated to incredible views of the Sacramento Valley and the Darro river below. It’s also a perfect spot to appreciate the Alhambra palace in all its resplendent glory. The abbey is open every day except Monday from 11.00-13.00 and reopens again in the afternoon from 16.00-18.00. You can only enter the abbey as part of a guided tour, which lasts 45 minutes and for the moment is only available in Spanish. Find out more information here. Learn about life in a cave house The city of Granada is known for its cave houses. These curious dwellings are tucked away in the hills of Sacromonte, a predominately gypsy neighbourhood considered to be one of the birthplaces of flamenco. If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Granada, perhaps you fancy checking out what life was like as a cave resident over 100 years ago. The cave museum in Sacromonte provides access to 9 perfectly preserved caves, kitted out with original furniture and tools from the period, to give visitors an authentic glimpse into the realities of cave dwelling. The museum is open daily, with guided tours in English. It’s a steep walk to get there, so be prepared to sweat on a hot…
Via: 18 Unusual Things to do in Andalucia
