Author: carolin.zobel8

For those with an adventurous spirit, the province of Malaga offers a journey not just across landscapes but also through time. It’s a chance to delve deep into caves that have seen the footprints of ancient civilizations and hold stories yet untold.

The Hidden Gems of Malaga’s Underground

The allure of Malaga’s caves isn’t just their geological formations but the tales they harbor.

Nerja Cave: The Famous Underground Giant

Known as Malaga’s famed cavern, the Nerja Cave takes visitors through an expansive underground world discovered only in the 20th century. The complexity and vastness of its chambers are a challenge even for the most intrepid adventurers. For those who fancy a lone exploration, an audio guide is available. And for Spanish speakers, a torch-lit tour led by Miguel Joven, a star from the 80s TV show “Verano Azul,” provides an authentic nostalgic experience.

The Mystery of the Cueva del Tesoro

Away from the popular paths lies the Cueva del Tesoro or the “Treasure Cave.” Not just one, but a network of three caves – Higuerón, Suizo, and Victoria. Their walls have watched over human civilizations for more than 40,000 years, preserving Paleolithic and Neolithic artwork. But it’s the legend of a hidden Moorish gold treasure that attracts seekers and dreamers. Despite determined efforts, including a Swiss explorer who took to dynamite in his quest, the treasure remains a mystery.

The Ultimate Cave Exploration

For those who seek the adrenaline of raw exploration, a guided tour through the Cueva del Tesoro and the nearby Cueva de la Victoria is the ultimate challenge. Equipped with just a helmet, headlamp, and sturdy footwear, adventurers can tread where few have before. The reward? Marvelous rupestrian paintings from the Paleolithic era, exceptionally preserved. And who knows, if you tread carefully, you might even stumble upon that elusive treasure.

To sum it up

Malaga’s caves offer more than just an excursion; they provide a chronological journey from ancient times to the present, all within the same province. So, if you’re looking to push boundaries and seek stories beyond the common tales, these caves await your footsteps. Dive in, and maybe, just maybe, history might reveal a secret to you.

If you are looking for a day in the midst of a lush Mediterranean forests, rugged rocky landscapes, and picturesque streams with the chance to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape, we recommend a hike through the Eco Reserve Ojén. 

What makes it really specially, is the way you will get in touch with the local flora and fauna. Friendly guides (all of them work there as volunteers) will happily answer you any questions about the ecosystem, explain how many of the plants found in this forest have been used for medical purposes and help you to get really close to the mammals of the 800 hectares big natural reserve.

It is hard to express in words how it feels to pet a 250kg heavy deer and touch its huge antler. The animals are so used to be around humans, because they are fed on a daily basis by the volunteers and have learnt from their early days that humans do not mean any harm to them. This explains, why a herd of young deers, chamois and even wild boars are happy to accompany a bunch of people on their way through the forest. 

Without a doubt, this is a once-in-a-lifetime-experience and absolutely worth the effort. Even though the entry fee is not cheap, it is important to know that all the money goes entirely to the conservation and protection of this beautiful place on earth with all its flora and fauna, including the Iberian lynx, chameleons and a variety of birds

The reserve also offers guided tours of the area’s rich cultural heritage, including the visit to the traditional oil mill, where visitors can learn about the process of olive oil production.

In summary, Eco Reserva Ojen is a must-visit destination for families, nature enthusiasts and those interested in learning about sustainable practices in a familiar atmosphere.