Getting to the top is no easy task. But you cannot miss this adventure!
The idea behind most of our blogs is to share information assisting in your smart travel. If you are young and energetic you may find this article interesting. But if you are my age, when in Malaga Spain, this information will be extremely helpful.
As we left our cruise ship at the Port of Malaga and we were heading towards the city, we could see a one mile walk ahead of us to downtown. I looked at my wife and we decided that we should save our feet for later and take a cab. I managed to find a cab driver who spoke a little bit of English and I asked him how much it would cost to take us downtown. He stated it would be € 5. Seemed a little steep for a mile ride, but we would save a 1 mile on our feet and we decided it was well worth it. However, upon sitting in the car I noticed that the Castillo de Gibralfaro, which sits atop ruins of very tall mountain (by Florida standards) was clearly in our vision. I knew that the ruins of this Moorish castle fortress was clearly on our to-do list for the day.
I asked the cabdriver what it would cost to take us up to the top of the Mount Gibralfaro and the Castle Gates. He stated that would be € 10. I looked at my wife she looked at me and without speaking we immediately agreed that this was a bargain. So, I told the friendly cab driver to take us up to the top of Mountain to the Castillo de Gibralfaro.
On the way up the driver let us know he had always lived in Malaga. He pointed to different Locations that he had been to before during his life, the house he was born in, and some advice on where to eat. With my poor Spanish and his equally poor English, we found much of his information interesting, but less than useful. Of great utility was his suggestion and pointing to a path back down the mountain to the city of Malaga.
Regardless, we made it safely to the Castillo de Gibralfaro and we enjoyed seeing the ruins very much. The 14th century castle is located 450 feet above sea level with beautiful views of the surrounding city and our cruise ship. There is a small seating area with a cafe with Tapas and €1.50 beer, that is totally worth visiting for a nice break at Castillo de Gibralfaro.
We made our way down the hill to the city of Malaga, via Paseo Don Jaun Temboury which can be a very steep and slippery path. Stopping along the way is the Alcazaba, a medieval Moorish palace with picturesque gardens and courtyards. The visit is definitely worth the €5.50 for the combination Castillo de Gibralfaro – Alcazaba palace pass.
Within an hour after walking descending and walking around the City, we realized what a brilliant decision we had made. Working your way downhill first thing in the morning, rather than uphill later in the day is a tremendous time and leg savor. Regardless of your walk or Uber ride up, make sure you bring good shoes!
I recommend you always consider your time, desired stops and terrain when planning your daily touring. This seems reasonably obvious, but we made some savvy choices in Malaga.