Reviews

Very enjoyable and relaxing level 4 walking trip, spring a good time to go

I really enjoyed this week, Activity level 4 in Early May.

Cortijo Rosario, where we stayed is in a lovely position, perched above Algámitas/ looking across to two large peaks, with a pool (which was warm enough for me to swim later in the week), nice flowers at this time of year and swallows nesting on the way in chittering and swooping around the way in.
I was in room 5, very comfortable as a single person in a twin; facing east-ish so nice for sunrise. Bed was comfortable for me, en-suite with shower, shutters worked, small safe, clean.
Information in room has little in apart from a nice history and safe place instructions. Needs more work; add emergency night time contact (no staff at nighttime which works well, though I wondered what to do if emergency lighting which came to the on once stayed on longer) for instance. Everything else was clearly gone through and the next days info on a whiteboard. Selection of teas, coffees and biscuits were perfect for my needs in the bar area. Dinner inside some nights, outside on others (sometimes need extra layers for those nights). All staff friendly, made us feel welcome.

Activity level 4 has a busy schedule which I liked, lots to do and see; I didn’t use much of the other downstairs communal facilities, though noted games, books, and spare poles for instance. I enjoyed every day, even rain pouring out of first floor pipes in town the first day (Nb unfortunately lots of rain damage to the roads from the past few months storms; did make for a lush green landscape).
Each day is different, a variety of walks/ activities, the two local peaks the first two days, both worth doing, even in some fog on day 2, I still enjoyed the wide variety of wildflowers in early May (spotted more than 30 different ones), bird calls, and butterflies (spotted around 9 different ones). Then we did a meadows, monastery, valley, and the lovely Setinel destination walk, seeing eagles, vultures, mulberries, croaking frogs/ toads, and what looked like it could have been a nightingale perched in front of me briefly.
Worth the 3 hours travel going to/ from Seville on the day off; I liked getting lost in the numerous narrow winding streets, the view of the round tower from a bridge, and the Alcazar that was a nice peaceful end to the day ( Nb buy tickets well in advance if you can navigate the online payments system); I ran out of time for the cathedral and to try out at the recommended restaurant. Also if day 5 gorge tickets are early enough, I can also recommend the 3 hours in Ronda extra; I enjoyed an online trail I found, my favourite was the steep walk down and back up to see the new bridge from a ruined house just above the waterfalls, below the sheer cliffs, which is free ( you also get a good view of what looks like cliff arch); there are many paid for alternatives to what I did; and again I ran out of time.
The gorge wall walk is fun and not scary for me, though busy at times; nb I have a fear of edges with long sheer drops and this didn’t at all trigger me. The last walk is a crags and meadows walk around an hour away; again eagles and vultures, some closer this time; also wild black pigs and a couple of black shapes gliding down in front of me escaping an eagle, and some apricot shaped almonds near the town.
I was really happy with each day and wouldn’t have changed anything except the fog on the top of Pennon crag.
It was a group of 10; all nice, friendly people.

In comparison with the Sierra de Aitana walk I did last fall, this was easier, walked at a comfortable pace for me, with plenty of time for me to look at the things that caught my eye, though each day was further/ longer time out, about 25% more steps, though less difficult climbs/ descents and a lot less slippy. There was much more driving this time. There was less flexibility, using hired mini-buses mostly, not their own, therefore need to stick to the advertised schedule. Food much more refined, veggie meals looked much better/ more varied , though probably food much less authentic. Overall I enjoyed them equally and recommend doing both as different enough from each other.

And I managed to navigate the new EU system, though needed to register again going back home, in plenty of time for the flight.

Fantastic week in Andalucia

This trip exceeded all my expectations and we discovered parts of Andalucia I never knew existed. April was the perfect month for hiking, and the weather was warm and sunny but not too overwhelming. It was grade 2 but most of us found the uphills a bit challenging, but not impossible. We saw the most magnificent scenery, ate tapas in mountain villages, and were led by Miguel, one of the best guides I’ve ever experienced at Exodus. His expert knowledge of the area was second to none.

Fantastic

This was a fantastic trip. The weather was perfect for walking, slightly cooler than expected. And the itinerary of the trip was varied and interesting. The food was amazing and the hosts could not be more helpful.

Walking in Andalucia

Absolutely wonderful. Michael (our group leader) was incredible. Best leader I’ve ever experienced. His knowledge and passion for everything elevated the trip experience through the roof.

Great mix of activity, culture, and information

This was our first Exodus trip. We loved the group size (11) and its compatibility, mix of activities, and the incredible knowledge of the tour leader, Michael/Miguel. On most days we were out and about from 9 to 5. The terrain was lovely – hills and mountains surrounding rolling pastureland and olive farms. We saw and walked through so many white villages, and some of us took an extra 4 hour trip to Ronda, one of the most famous. The hiking was moderate. For me, the oldest by several years at age 75, it was at times tough because of the many ups and downs with the inclines occasionally too steep and long. The other 10 handled it with less trouble. Our tour leader, Michael/Miguel, knew everything about farming, geology, plants and animals and birds, and the history of the area. We all marveled at the extent of his knowledge! The farmhouse we stayed in was lovely with good food (the paella the last night was the best!), though the rooms lacked good lighting and the beds seemed a bit soft. This is a fun trip to go on for the activity, lovely scenery, and variety. We combined it with 2 days in Malaga and 4 in Granada and found every day rich and magical.

An amazing trip!

I’ve wanted to visit Andalucia for more than 20 years and this trip did not disappoint. It was, to me, the perfect blend of rural walking and city time- with my favorite moments being the pastures and small villages, learning about olive production, local plants, and life in Algamitas. The Cortijo is lovely, and though simple, had everything we need (including a pool!) The staff were all incredibly friendly and helpful and Felipe, the manager, was especially thoughtful in taking care of everyone. My traveling companion and I both have dietary/medical restrictions and Felipe and the wonderful kitchen staff went to great lengths to ensure we had what we needed (we know gluten free pasta, bread and cereal can’t be easy to come by in a rural area, and that making a separate version of a meal is a lot of work), but made it seem effortless. Our guide, Miguel, is funny and personable and knows so much about the area: archaeology, geology, plant life, birds, and people- and he clearly makes a great effort to know the neighbors in the village and connect with people. He also runs a tight ship to keep people safe and cared for! He also goes to great lengths to make sure his groups have a great time and get to do the things they want to do. I thought the walking was the right challenge for a level 2- the biggest variable was the sun and heat, but he made sure we were hydrated and prepared. We didn’t have any rain, but that would also make for a different kind of challenge. And we lucked out with a group of lovely, funny, caring fellow-travelers. This trip was to celebrate my friends’ and my 40th birthdays this year, and it was exactly what we wanted it to be!

A Magical Escape to Andalucía: Rustic Charm & Culinary Bliss

Our recent trip to Andalucía was nothing short of spectacular. Nestled in the heart of the countryside, I stayed at a rustic Cortijo that perfectly blended traditional charm with modern comfort. Surrounded by olive groves and rolling hills, the Cortijo offered a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views and a cozy, authentic atmosphere.
What truly elevated the experience was the cuisine. Every meal was a celebration of Andalusian flavors—fresh, vibrant, and deeply satisfying – each dish was crafted with care and passion.

Whether exploring nearby whitewashed villages, hiking through the Sierra Nevada, or simply relaxing under the stars with a glass of local wine, this trip was unforgettable.
Highly recommended for anyone seeking a soulful escape filled with beauty, flavor, and authentic Spanish hospitality.

Rustic Spain

Stunning scenery, hilly walks but easy terrain. The Cortico has great views and the outside areas are lovely. Bedrooms not so much. Some rooms are very small, I was allocated a small single room with a single bed, think student dorm, for which I was charged a extra!!! I have marked the trip down for that reason

Plentiful food with alternative diets well catered for .

Walking in Andalusia September 2025

Amazing walking holiday from start to finish.

Superb walking, culture and food

A wonderful walking holiday in Andalucia with a good mix of hiking, scenery, culture and amazing food, particularly at the excellent Cortijo Rosario farmhouse that acted as “base camp” for the week. It included great days sight-seeing in Sevilla and Ronda and an introduction to the local wildlife and biodiversity.