A natural landscape
The Chillar River trail leaves from Nerja, where Nerja Town Council has provided two free public car parks where you can leave your car ready to start the walk. This trail has a recommended return distance of between 6 and 8 kilometres.
If it has rained recently in the area then it’s not recommended to take the trail as the riverbed will increase, making it difficult to walk along it. Once you leave your car, head towards the entrance of the Tejeda, Alhama and Almijara Natural Park where a shy winding river will welcome you. The water will reach your ankles or your knees depending on the actual stretch, so be careful not to slip!
A refreshing trail
After around two kilometres you'll come across a small hydroelectric power plant and, a little further on, a waterfall. From this point the views are breathtaking, so we recommend that you keep your camera at hand.
The path is flanked by majestic trees until you reach Los Cachorros. When passing, you’ll almost touch the walls of these three marble gorges, which lead to a small pool of crystal-clear water. After crossing the gorges you’ll find a series of small waterfalls and ponds along the way, where you can take a dip or have a rest to take some photos.
Following the river path
The path may become more complicated and slippery at this point, with large rocks along the way. At the same time the surroundings will become even more impressive, making it a unique experience. Nerja's privileged location, between the sea and the mountains, provides visitors with unique and outstanding landscapes. Without even taking off their swimsuit, travellers can chose between the picture-perfect sun over Burriana beach in winter and a stunning rural trail such as that of the Chillar River.
When you reach a second impressive pool with a waterfall, known as El Vado de los Patos, it's time to stop for lunch before making your way back. You can take any photos that you missed earlier or have a refreshing dip on the way back. Thanks to more than 300 days of sunshine on the Costa del Sol you can take a dip at any time of the year.
A trail for all to enjoy
Those who are new to hiking will enjoy the Chillar River trail Children of any age will enjoy the experience which will allow them to connect with the local fauna and flora and play in the waters of the river. If taking the trail with small children, it is best to reach the Los tres Cachorros marble gorges, where the path becomes slightly more slippery.
There is an alternative return route for more advanced hikers and adventure lovers, which will take you on a more complicated climb up the riverbed. We recommend this climb if you want to see the path from a height.
And the best thing is, once you finish the trail you'll be back in Nerja. How about grabbing your towel and taking a break while you dry under the sun on the beach?
Some tips:
Wear closed shoes and put your swimsuit on under your clothes. You’ll get wet at least up to your knees.
If you’re with small children, head back once you reach the Los Tres Cachorros gorges.
There’s an alternative return route which crosses over the riverbed. It’s quite high and requires more hiking experience but the views are unique.
Dry off on the sands of Burriana beach, one of the most beautiful in Europe.
Take a photo of yourself at the Los Tres Cachorros gorges; the way the light reflects on the marble is truly spectacular
