Chestnut Route in the “Serrania de Ronda”

Once summer is over, autumn arrives, with the change of colour and the falling of the leaves that create impressive ochre and golden landscapes. In the “Serranía de Ronda” you will discover vast and surprising enclaves where you can stroll and enjoy a good time surrounded by a great climate and atmosphere.

Autumn also brings with it the chestnut season, where, in the streets, the aroma of roasting chestnuts mingles with the air, creating a cosy and appetising atmosphere that almost compels you to try these delicacies.

But best of all, you can combine two of the most outstanding pleasures of this season: autumn walks and chestnut picking. Whether on foot or by bike, you have the opportunity to explore routes surrounded by hundreds of chestnut trees, always with respect for the protected and private areas that surround your path.

To embark on this adventure, you must embark on the Chestnut Route in the Genal Valley. This route will take you through a picturesque forest known as the “Bosque del Cobre”, due to the ochre, brown and orange tones that dress the trees and the ground during this season. It is a place where you can enjoy the chestnut trees, strawberry trees, holm oaks and cornicabras in a great visual spectacle.

If you decide to explore this wonderland by bike, be prepared for exciting rides through the chestnut trees, always being careful of the leaves that cover the ground and can hide small stones or obstacles.

For those who prefer walking, it is essential to bring good hiking boots, warm clothes, some food and water, as well as a bag to collect your chestnuts. Whatever your choice, you are in for an autumnal ride that will take you through picturesque villages linked by scenic footpaths, with the exception of Pujerra and Júzcar, which are connected by road.

Thanks to the size of this autumn route, it doesn’t matter from which point you want to start your adventure, as there are multiple route options available. You can start your journey from charming villages such as Pujerra, Júzcar, Igualeja or any other point you wish to explore. Each of these places offers its own charm, giving you the freedom to tailor your experience to your own preferences.

On your way back to the starting point, we recommend a stop in Júzcar, also known as the “Smurf village“, a place that became famous for being the setting for the Smurfs’ film, with all its blue painted houses, which have attracted visitors from all over the world.

Once the chestnuts have been harvested… To the kitchen!

After an exciting day on the Chestnut Route, you’ll find yourself with a good harvest of this autumnal fruit with which you can make endless dishes. You can enjoy traditional dishes such as tostones, perfect for sharing with friends, or perhaps you’d prefer to prepare a delicious chestnut purée, a comforting and healthy option. You can also experiment with desserts, from chestnut tarts to creams, as well as rich liqueurs and cakes.

Every bite of these dishes will take you back to your walk in the Serranía de Ronda!

And after a busy and very autumnal day, you should rest in a quality accommodation. We recommend our hotel surrounded by the nature of Ronda. Visit our website here and do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions, we will be happy to help you!