Driving along the Marbella coastal highway it is possible to catch glimpses of the natural splendour of Andalucía—with the sparkling Mediterranean Sea on one side and the imposing peaks of the mountains that dominate the region on the other.
As you take in this landscape, thoughts may wander from the bustling coast to speculate on what natural beauty lies hidden in the valleys and countryside that is so tantalisingly close.
Indeed, many of the historic trading paths, sheep droving trails and once-busy highways have long since lost their importance and are used chiefly by local farmers and the residents of isolated hamlets where life continues much as it has done for centuries. The truth is that many of the inland routes that wind through the Andalusian country are scenic roads best enjoyed at a slower pace—and it is well worth the effort to do so.
One of the best ways to explore the old routes and secret corners of Andalucía that are seldom seen by modern tourists is to join a jeep safari. Several companies offer this option for the adventurous—and it is becoming an increasingly popular activity. With trips lasting anything from three hours to a full day it is an option suitable for the family and can either take the form of being chauffeured in nine-seater Land Rovers or following a guide in an open top 4X4.
Whichever you choose, you are guaranteed to spot hidden valleys, ford rivers, discover magnificent mountain vistas and view landscapes much as they were when the ancient civilisations still reigned in Spain.
From Marbella there are a myriad routes that can be taken, ranging from Istan, through the Sierra Blanca natural park inland to Coín and the Guadalhorce Valley, to following the ‘old’ Ronda Road—again through another natural park. The pace is gentle and the stops frequent, allowing participants the time to truly appreciate the beauty of the scenery.
It can’t be denied that it is fun too—a throwback to the days when motoring was viewed more as a pleasurable hobby than a mere method of getting to work—and the perfect way to discover the real Andalucía.
Residencia Estates has a selection of villas and apartments available for sale in Marbella, all within a few minutes’ drive of the beautiful, rugged countryside and natural parks of this part of Spain—please contact us for more information.