Benalmadena Cable Car

The cable car lifts from behind the Benalmadena seafront to the summit of Monte Calamorro at around 770 metres, a ride of roughly fifteen minutes in enclosed gondolas. The point is the change in perspective: the coastal strip of hotels flattens out below and the view opens along the Costa del Sol, toward Malaga on one side and, when the haze lifts, across to the Moroccan coast. At the top there are marked walking trails along the ridge, a small bar and daily birds of prey displays. Walking down is possible on a path of around two hours, which most people underestimate in the heat.

What to look for

• The ride up - fifteen minutes in enclosed gondolas to around 770 metres.
• The summit view - the coast toward Malaga and, on clear days, north Africa.
• The birds of prey display - daily flying demonstrations at the top station.
• The ridge trails - marked walks along the summit and a long path back down.

When to go

Spring and autumn give the clearest air and comfortable walking at the top; summer haze often erases the long view even under a cloudless sky. Mornings are clearer than afternoons. High wind stops the cable car outright, and it closes for maintenance periods in winter, so check before making the trip.

Before you go

The view is over a heavily developed coastline, which is not what everyone expects from a mountain trip. Summer haze frequently hides Africa and sometimes Malaga too. The ticket is not cheap for the length of the ride, and facilities at the top station are basic. The walk down is long, exposed and hard on the knees.

Nearby

Benalmadena marina and the Costa del Sol beaches; Malaga is twenty minutes by train.