The spectacular Caminito del Rey in the province of Málaga is adding a breathtaking attraction to its route. Starting Wednesday, June 10th, 2026, a brand-new suspension bridge measuring 110 meters in length will officially open, making it the longest suspension bridge of its kind in Spain.

Suspended fifty meters high above the stunning Gaitanes Gorge, the bridge is located just before the path reaches the iconic old iron railway bridge and the El Chorro tunnel. The official inauguration by the provincial government (Diputación de Málaga) will take place on Tuesday, June 9th, exactly one day before the first adventurous hikers are allowed to cross. The project was entirely funded by the revenue generated by the trail itself.

A Magnet for International Adventurers

According to official tourism data from Turismo y Planificación Costa del Sol and analyses in major Spanish newspapers like El País and Diario SUR, Caminito del Rey is an absolute hotspot for international travelers. More than half of the visitors come from abroad, with each country showcasing its own favorite travel trends:

🇬🇧 British Tourists Venture Deeper into the Inland

British tourists have traditionally been the largest group of foreign visitors on the Costa del Sol, but Diario SUR notes that they are increasingly leaving the beaches behind to explore the rugged interior. The new suspension bridge offers British travelers exactly the kind of outdoor thrill they look for during their holidays in southern Spain.

🇺🇸 American Travelers Discover the Ultimate Luxury Adventure

There is a notable surge in the number of American tourists visiting the province of Málaga. Americans often include Caminito del Rey as part of an exclusive tour through Andalusia. They highly value the premium facilities, such as the modern visitor center and comfortable shuttle buses, and share their spectacular photos of the gorge across social media.

🇫🇷 French Hikers Choose Culture and Ecotourism

French visitors greatly appreciate Caminito del Rey for its historical and ecological character. French tourists often combine hiking the gorge with cultural excursions to nearby Antequera. They are particularly pleased that this new bridge has been designed as a sustainable model project that respects the local flora and fauna.

🇩🇪 German Walkers Focus on Engineering and Structure

For Germans, hiking is a serious passion. They visit the region specifically for its impressive geological formations and the pristine organization of the route. German tourists are highly interested in the technical aspects; they study safety regulations in advance and will deeply appreciate the ingenious construction of this new 38-ton bridge.

🇧🇪 Belgian Tourists Seek Active Nature

Belgians are among the most loyal visitors to Málaga's hinterland. Belgian hikers frequently travel to Andalusia outside the high season, specifically targeting active nature tourism. They love swapping the crowded beaches for the tranquility of the mountains, spending above average on local gastronomy and high-quality accommodations in surrounding villages like Álora and Ardales.

🇳🇱 Dutch Travelers Book Massally in Advance

Right alongside the Belgians, Dutch tourists form a massive target group. The Dutch love the combination of excitement, sunshine, and well-organized logistics. Spanish newspapers report that tickets for the Caminito are often sold out months in advance, and it is primarily the Dutch who secure their coveted entry passes early in the spring via online platforms. The new bridge gives them the perfect reason to return.

The New Suspension Bridge in Figures

• Bridge Length: 110 meters (the longest in Spain)
• Maximum Height: 50 meters above the canyon
• Clear Walkway Width: 1.2 meters
• Floor Material: Metal grating (tramex) for maximum depth perception
• Total Weight: Nearly 38 tons (with 17 tons for the bridge structure alone)
• Total Project Cost: €1.5 million (including 300 meters of new trail, surveillance cameras, and fiber optics)

Why Choose a Bridge Right Now?

Behind the construction is not just a desire for more spectacle, but crucial scientific advice. A comprehensive geological study conducted by the Universities of Granada and Jaén indicated that the final section of the old path was becoming more sensitive to natural rock shifts.

To guarantee the absolute safety of hikers, it was decided to build this alternative route via the suspension bridge. Those who take the bridge save nearly a kilometer of descent over rough mountain terrain. However, no one is forced to look down into the depths: the old final route along the solid rock remains open. The bridge is a spectacular choice, not an obligation.

The Economic Engine of the Interior

Since its reopening in 2015, Caminito del Rey has welcomed more than 3.2 million visitors, completely transforming tourism in inland Málaga. The villages of Álora, Antequera, Ardales, Campillos, Carratraca, and Valle de Abdalajís have experienced a massive economic revival. The trail now supports 685 jobs, and the annual economic impact exceeds €64.1 million. The number of accommodations skyrocketed from 210 in 2015 to 893 in 2026.

Tip for Those Unable to Get Tickets

Missed out on a ticket? Spanish media recommend the El Saltillo trail in the Axarquía region as the perfect alternative. It is the 'free sibling' of the Caminito: just as beautiful, complete with its own impressive suspension bridge, but entirely without helmets, restrictions, or reservations!

nt, mais entièrement sans casques, restrictions ni réservations !