Hiking route to: La Cuesta del Cielo

La Cuesta del Cielo is the highest peak in Nerja with an altitude of 1505 meters. Characteristic for its pyramidal shape and considered a symbol of the town.

We are facing the most popular destination among residents who visit the Sierra de Almijara every day . In fact, there are several routes whose destination is the top of the Cuesta del Cielo. Next, we will detail the route to the Cuesta del Cielo through the area of La Civila (a group of houses located on a hillside popularly known as El Cortijo de la Civila).

The total length of this linear route reaches 17 kilometers (8.5 kilometers one way and another 8.5 kilometers back). The route can be done in an estimated time of 7 hours. It should be noted that this route has a high level of difficulty .

Various sections of this route coincide with the itinerary of another route that is located under the municipal boundaries of Nerja. Specifically the route that leads us to La Fuente del Esparto . In addition, it coincides with the sections of the routes to Almendrón and Navachica. Summits belonging to the Natural Park of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama. Therefore, the mentioned routes can be combined (only recommended for experienced hikers).

This route is divided into two very different sections. The first of them consists of reaching Los Cortijos de la Civila . This uphill section is comfortable. However, as we advance the level of difficulty of the route increases progressively. Once we leave Los Cortijos de la Civila behind, the only way to continue is on foot. It is at this point when the second section begins: the climb to Pico del Cielo . By then we will find ourselves 800 meters above sea level in a perfect enclave to enjoy spectacular views of the Cliffs of Maro , La Maroma (belonging to the Sierra de Tejeda) and of course, towards the Axarquía.

This first section that we mentioned is accessible by car. Despite this, we recommend that you do the entire tour on foot. This way the experience will be more complete and rewarding.

The starting point of this route is in the municipality of Nerja. Specifically, we refer to the lane that runs along the Barranco de la Coladilla towards the Cortijo de la Civila. We offer you the coordinates of the beginning of the route as a guide: 36.783145, -3.848741. The directions to follow on the road are as follows: From La Cueva de Nerja we continue along the La Coladilla lane for 3 kilometers. Taking into account the conditions of the terrain, we recommend you drive with caution. Also, you should know that parking the vehicle in this area can be difficult. Therefore, the most comfortable way to start the route is on foot.

Once we have finished the first section to Los Cortijos de la Civila, the Cuesta del Cielo is two hours away. The route to follow will be comfortable for us until the last 200 meters of ascent. At this point of the route the terrain begins to be steeper and the presence of numerous stones will make it difficult for us to pass. In addition, the presence of a glass structure in the shape of a cross will attract your attention.

Without a doubt, the physical effort used to reach the top of La Cuesta del Cielo will have been worth it. The views towards the provinces of Malaga and Granada are worth admiring. You can even contemplate in the distance the mountain ranges that make up Sierra Nevada.

The return route is identical to the outward route. However, we must take more precautions due to the slope of the terrain.