Gaitanejo Dam – King's Bridge loop from Camping Ardales

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Hiking trails & Routes

Gaitanejo Dam – King's Bridge loop from Camping Ardales

Hard

hikers

Gaitanejo Dam – King's Bridge loop from Camping Ardales

04:16

10.2km

550m

Hiking

Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: October 16, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment that may be dangerous

A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.

After 5.96 km for 1.04 km

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

2.00 km

View of the Guadalhorce River on the approach to the Caminito del Rey

Highlight • Viewpoint

Start of the path as soon as you exit the tunnel.

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2.73 km

Arch-Shaped Rock Formation Near Caminito del Rey

Highlight • Natural Monument

The walk to the entrance of the Caminito del Rey alone is an interesting little hike.

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3.19 km

Gaitanejo Dam

Highlight • Monument

It was built between 1914 and 1921 by the engineer Rafael Benjumea. It allows hydroelectric power to be generated from the Turon, Guadalhorce and Guadalteba rivers. Next to the dam …

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3.45 km

Desfiladero de los Gaitanes Gorge

Highlight • Gorge

At a height of 100 m, the Caminito del Rey sticks to the cliffs of the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes. The Bearded Vulture Cave – a gorge whose walls rise …

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3.78 km

King's Bridge

Highlight • Bridge

King Alfonso 13 opened the Conde del Guadalhorce dam in 1921 and crossed the bridge. Hence the name "Caminito del Rey"

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4.02 km

King's Bridge (Puente del Rey), Caminito del Rey

Highlight • Bridge

King Alfonso 13th opened the Conde del Guadalhorce Dam in 1921 and crossed the bridge. Hence the name "Caminito del Rey"

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4.25 km

Gaitanes Gorge and Bridge North of Caminito del Rey

Highlight • Gorge

In the second section of the Caminito del Rey, the valley opens up and you can see carob trees everywhere, which have spread here.

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5.80 km

Viewpoint

9.91 km

Access tunnel to the Caminito del Rey

Highlight • Structure

Access path no. 2 to the official starting point of the Caminito del rey (dispensing of helmets). It is the short access route to the starting point (1.5km) through a tunnel.

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