Discover the La Concha hiking trail in Marbella

For those visiting Marbella and taking in its landscape from the beach or seafront promenade, La Concha stands out as one of the most iconic silhouettes in the area. But beyond its imposing presence, hiking to La Concha in Marbella is an unforgettable experience for those who dare to discover it.

Visible from almost every corner of the city, La Concha gets its name from its distinctive rounded shape, reminiscent of a shell protecting the bay. Standing at 1,215 metres above sea level, this peak is part of the Sierra Blanca range and offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views along the Andalusian coast.

Hiking to La Concha in Marbella: an emblem of the Costa del Sol

There’s something magical about the ascent to La Concha Peak. As you make your way along the trail and the sea begins to glisten at your feet, you feel Marbella fading behind you, yet its energy accompanies you all the way to the top. La Concha is more than just a mountain: it’s a symbol, a compass, and the city’s natural guardian.

Visitors to Marbella who gaze at its outline from the promenade or beach immediately recognise its unmistakable shape. Alongside the Mediterranean Sea, La Concha is one of Marbella’s most iconic images. Its rounded profile, evoking a protective shell, gives this mountain its name and defines the city’s character.

But La Concha is not just about beauty; it also offers protection. Its presence creates a unique microclimate in Marbella, which is why the city enjoys more than 320 days of sunshine a year. The mountain acts as a natural barrier against cold northern winds, maintaining mild temperatures even in winter and creating a temperate environment that makes Marbella a year-round destination.

How to hike to La Concha in Marbella

For those who make the climb, the experience becomes an unforgettable memory. One of the most unique aspects of this route is that much of the trail runs along the ridge, offering constant panoramic views of the sea, the coast and the mountains. This isn’t a hike where the reward is only at the summit – it’s a visual feast all along the way.

• From various points along the path, you can see Africa, Gibraltar, Sierra Nevada and the entire Malaga coastline.

This guide is aimed at nature lovers, trekking enthusiasts and anyone keen to discover Marbella from a different, higher, more natural and authentic perspective. There are several ways to enjoy the mountain depending on each hiker’s level and experience.

For experienced hikers: the classic route from Refugio de Juanar

The best-known and most comprehensive route begins at the Refugio de Juanar, around a 25-minute drive from central Marbella, near the village of Ojén.

• Approximate duration: 4 to 5 hours round trip, about 12 km with 700 metres of elevation gain.
• Difficulty: medium-high.
• Starting point: Refugio de Juanar car park.
• Practical tips: start early, bring 1.5 to 2 litres of water per person, light food, sturdy footwear and a windbreaker. Avoid foggy or rainy days – the rocks can be slippery and you won’t enjoy the views.

Step-by-step guide: how to climb La Concha from Refugio de Juanar

Here’s how to hike to La Concha Peak from Refugio de Juanar – one of Marbella’s most spectacular hiking trails:

1. Start at the Refugio: from the car park, follow the wide track through olive groves and pine trees. The first few minutes are easy and well signposted.
2. Cruz de Juanar viewpoint: after about 40 minutes, you’ll reach this spot with one of the most renowned views over Marbella Bay. Ideal for your first break at one of the area’s most iconic points.
3. Along the ridge: continue west. The path becomes more technical, narrower and rockier. This is the most scenic and beautiful stretch, but it also requires a bit of skill.
4. Final stretch: just before the summit, there are some short scrambles over limestone. Proceed with caution. The views from the top are more than worth the effort.
5. The summit of La Concha: at 1,215 metres, you’ll enjoy a 360º view of Marbella Bay, the Costa del Sol, Sierra Nevada, the Strait of Gibraltar and North Africa, with the Atlas Mountains in the distance.

For intermediate hikers: short trails around Juanar

If you prefer a gentler walk without giving up the natural beauty of the area, the surroundings of Refugio de Juanar offer several circular routes perfect for a peaceful yet enriching outing. Trails such as Los Castaños or the Mirador del Macho Montés lead you through ecologically rich landscapes, including pine groves, cork oaks and holm oak forests, with stunning views over the Mediterranean coast and Marbella.

• Duration: between 1.5 and 2 hours.
• Difficulty: low to medium.
• Tip: wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the terrain is rocky even on the easier stretches.
• Good to know: in autumn, the Los Castaños trail offers a special show with seasonal colours and the sound of leaves underfoot.

For everyone: the Mirador del Corzo

If you’re not looking to reach the summit, the Mirador del Corzo offers a short, 20-minute walk from the Refugio de Juanar. From here, you’ll enjoy one of the best panoramic views of Marbella and the Mediterranean Sea – perfect for a family outing or a half-day escape.

• Duration: 20–30 minutes (one way).
• Difficulty: very low.
• Ideal for: families with children, older adults or anyone seeking a short walk with a big visual reward.

Hiking with guides and associations

If you’d rather not go alone or want to explore other routes in the Sierra Blanca with local experts, there are several associations and companies that organise group outings and guided hikes. Some associations require prior registration or a federation licence. Always check the requirements and difficulty level of each route before joining.

• Club Escalada Marbella (CEM): organises mountain activities and technical routes.
• Climb La Concha: company specialising in guided ascents to La Concha with various difficulty levels.
• Activities Marbella: offers guided hikes and trekking excursions throughout the area.
• Team4You Marbella: outdoor activity and team-building agency that includes hiking in Sierra Blanca.
• “Salidas a la Naturaleza” programme – Marbella Town Hall: organises free guided hikes year-round.

Other nearby peaks for hiking

If you’ve already conquered La Concha, there are several great alternatives for continuing your exploration of the Sierra Blanca:

• Cerro Lastonar (1,275 metres): the highest point in the range. Although less well known than La Concha, it offers even broader views. Being less frequented, it provides a quieter experience in full contact with nature.
• Cruz de Juanar (1,180 metres): can be reached in just 30 to 40 minutes from Refugio de Juanar, making it an ideal short hike with spectacular views.
• Pico de los Castillejos (1,050 metres): this route also starts from Refugio de Juanar, like the ascent to Cruz de Juanar, but takes a different direction. It’s a moderate hike that can be completed in about 2 to 3 hours round trip. From the top, you get an unbeatable view of the Guadalhorce Valley.

Where to stay in Marbella for hiking

To make the most of your hiking experience, staying close to nature makes all the difference. At Banus Rentals you’ll find a carefully curated selection of holiday apartments and villas in the best areas: Puerto Banús, Nueva Andalucía, East Marbella, central Marbella and Estepona. Stylish properties, fully equipped for comfort and designed for those seeking rest, privacy and authenticity. Live Marbella like a local, with the freedom and comfort that only Banus Rentals can offer you.