CR Adventures 010522: Escaleruela y Sierra del Torcal Antequera

Ten minutes from Antequera, in the direction of the Abdalajis Valley, are the well-known Escaleruelas. Its paths are covered with vegetation and ravines
in contrast to linear mountain ranges and eucalyptus trees arranged in terraces.

It is a spectacular natural setting in the Torcal Bajo area, the less travelled and wildest area of Torcal de Antequera. This area is of special protection since it is home to species such as the black vulture, the imperial eagle, kestrels, mountain goats, deer, wild boar. Special precaution if you find a wild boar or deer specimen as they can be aggressive because they want to defend their young.

It is not recommended to do this route even after it has rained, since the ground can be very slippery, or in fog, since it is quite easy to get lost.

From the peak you can see Antequera, El Torcal Alto and on clear days, Sierra Nevada.

The hike starts with a steep ascent of the Escaleruela levelling off through the Navazo where we make our way towards the Cortijo de los Navazos along the well marked trail.
With the Cortijo in sight we take a left turn just after the entrance gate through an open field keeping to its perimeter and then climb almost cross-country to the Torcal de Antequera.
The route is fairly narrow through the canyon due to the dense vegetation but very enjoyable and the views magnificent.
The Ibex came out to welcome us along the trail and it’s the first time I’ve seen bluebells growing in Spain and beautiful flowers they were.
The first section of the route was in complete contrast to the middle section as the trail became more defined and very busy.

The last section of the trail followed a small section of road to access the quarries and return to the starting point via an easy trail through the mountains.

The route although long with elevation gain can be technically challenging in places due to the difficulty with walking through the cracked and bare limestone terrain.
A brilliant hike which we loved so start early take your time and enjoy the best that nature has to offer in the Torcal.