Today we present the walk through the Enchanted Forest of Parauta, an ideal activity for the whole family, with handmade magical characters such as fairies, elves and wizards along the path. Keep reading this article from Espacar, your car hire in Malaga!
What is the Enchanted Forest of Parauta?
The Enchanted Forest of Parauta (Bosque Encantado) is a family attraction created by the village together with the artist Diego Guerrero to make this lovely village in the Genal Valley, in the Serranía de Ronda, even more beautiful. Along the path you will find wood carvings in trees, tiny houses, wizards and fairies.
The carvings are spread along roughly 1 km of the trail, so you never need to leave the path, which makes it perfect for children. Every July, Parauta celebrates the Enchanted Forest Festival, when the forest is lit by more than 3,000 candles and fairies, elves and witches set challenges for children and adults. Those who complete the route receive a small gift.
The Enchanted Forest of Parauta walk
The trail is paved and relatively easy, although it has some slopes. It is suitable for pushchairs and for older children on bikes, but the hills may be hard for the youngest ones.
| Key facts | Enchanted Forest of Parauta |
|---|---|
| Distance | About 3.5 km return (4.5 km from the sports centre car park) |
| Time | About 2 hours at a relaxed pace with children |
| Difficulty | Easy, paved path with some slopes |
| Suitable for | Families, pushchairs, older children on bikes |
A longer option: Parauta to Cartajima
If you want a longer walk, you can continue on the PR-A 222 trail from Parauta to Cartajima. It is a linear 4.5 km route each way, with just over 200 metres of ascent, also on an easy concrete track. In total you walk about 9 km and can be back in Parauta in time for lunch.
Where to park in Parauta
Parking is free, although a local man usually helps visitors park and asks for a voluntary donation. On Sundays and public holidays the route is very busy, so if you arrive late you may have to park at the side of the road.
Where to eat in Parauta
Parauta has only a few bars for the number of visitors at weekends, so if you plan to eat here, book in advance. Restaurante Anafe is highly recommended, but it is small and fills up quickly.
What else to see in Parauta
After the forest, take a stroll through the village. Look out for the chairs hanging high on the house façades (so the fairies and elves can rest) and the Rincón del Beso, one of the most photogenic spots in Parauta.
How to get to Parauta
Parauta is near Ronda, a little under two hours by car from Malaga. The easiest way to get there is by car: with an all-inclusive car hire at Malaga Airport you travel with no deposit and no excess. If you enjoy walking, read our guide to the best hiking routes in Malaga.
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