Best hikes near Marbella for autumn scenery

When the summer heat softens and the hills surrounding Marbella turn their golden hues, it becomes one of the best times of year for hiking. Autumn on the Costa del Sol brings mild temperatures, crisp mountain air and landscapes brushed in colour. It’s also the season when Marbella enjoys its clearest blue skies and plenty of sunshine, perfect for longer days outdoors.

During October and November, the chestnut harvest is in full swing, filling the valleys with fallen chestnuts to forage, and piles of autumn leaves that carpet the village streets and forest paths in crunchy copper-tones.

Whether you want to enjoy a leisurely walk soaking in the scenery or prefer a more challenging full-day hike, these routes give you that Autumn fix, all within easy reach of Marbella.

Arguably the best place in Málaga province to experience autumn colours, the Genal Valley becomes a sea of golden leaves in October and November. The chestnut forests that cover its slopes are locally known as “the copper forest” (Bosque de Cobre).

Route Link: Genal Valley - Igualeja, Parauta Loop Walk
Trail Distance: 11.5 km | 7.15 miles
Highlights: Brilliant chestnut groves, quaint mountain villages, regional gastronomy.

Part of the Genal Valley, the Bosque Encantado (Enchanted Forest) in Parauta lives up to its name. This magical trail is particularly amazing for kids, with colourful sculpted mystical wooden figures installed by a local artist that line the wide forest path, making it a truly whimsical family-friendly outing.

Location: El Bosque Encantado de Parauta
Trail Distance: 1 km | 0.6 miles for the main Enchanted Forest section; longer if extended into the chestnut groves.
Highlights: Easy, shaded, rich in autumnal colours, ideal for families and photographers.

A local favourite just 15 minutes drive from Marbella, this moderate trail begins near Refugio de Juanar. The route leads through pine forests, chestnut trees and olive groves before reaching a viewpoint overlooking Marbella and the Mediterranean. Early mornings bring cool air and mist rising from the valleys — a perfect autumn scene. For a more challenging hike, keep walking following the signposts from the viewpoint up to the peak.

Route Link: Cruz de Juanar, Ojén
Trail Distance: 6 km | 3.73 miles
Highlights: Easy access, spectacular coastal views, and the possibility of spotting wild ibex.

The next big peak following the ridge from the Cruz de Juanar is La Concha, the mountain providing Marbella with its famous shell-shaped backdrop. This route to the top of the mountain ascends the ridge of Sierra Blanca, passing through the same initial path as the Cruz de Juanar, but forking to the right before the Mirador, leading you through a meandering forest path, and then a steep initial incline to reveal sweeping views of the coast. From here it’s stunning views all the way up.

Route Link: La Concha 
Distance: 15.4 km | 9.56 miles
Tip: Start early to avoid parking issues at the trailhead near Refugio de Juanar. Especially during autumn when people favour this trail for chestnut foraging.

A 20-minute drive inland from Marbella, the charming white village of Istán marks the start of one of the region’s most beloved trails. The route winds through the Sierra de las Nieves National Park, following forest tracks shaded by pine and chestnut trees, until you reach El Castaño Santo (The Holy Chestnut Tree). 

Estimated to be between 800-1,000 years old, this enormous tree has a trunk measuring around 13 metres in circumference, making it one of the largest and oldest in Spain. Today, it remains a natural monument of the province, protected within the Sierra de las Nieves UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

This time of year the forest surrounding the Castaño Santo is in autumnal mode, flush with a thick carpet of fallen leaves and chestnut husks. The gentle incline and wide paths make it a pleasant half-day hike that feels far removed from the coast.

Route Link: Ruta 4 Istán – Castaño
Trail Distance: 8–10 km | 5–6.2 miles
Highlights: Ancient chestnut groves, river crossings, panoramic views over the coast.

Lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and immerse yourself in the landscapes that make this part of Spain so special. 

As the coast quietens and the air clears, it’s the perfect moment to discover a different side of Marbella — one of mountain trails, chestnut groves, and peaceful villages just a short drive from the sea.