The Río Verde is the best spot in Andalusia  for canyoning, offering one of the most exciting routes in the south of Spain. The crystal-clear waters, sunny skies and consistent river flows make it a favourite for many adventure sports enthusiasts.

As safety is a top priority here, beginners must always be accompanied by an expert guide. Wetsuits, helmets and harnesses are required, as well as sturdy footwear that can get wet. No prior experience is necessary, although it does help to be in good shape, as canyoning is a tough sport and the route can take between three and five hours.

A hands-on river experience

The Río Verde runs through rough and rugged terrain, with steep slopes and drop-offs. These obstacles are crossed either walking, swimming, climbing or abseiling. The combination of climbing techniques and contact with the water is one of the most enticing aspects of this adventure sport. 

Following the river bed through its twists, drop-offs and waterfalls is a great way to enjoy the natural setting of chalk-coloured calcareous rocks and wells.

To meet the large demand for this popular sport, a number of adventure companies organise canyoning trips down the Río Verde. Try contacting Turismo Deportivo Escapada-Aventura, Turismo de Aventura y Turismo Rural, Granaventour, Nevadensis-Turismo Rural or Makalu Aventura.

From the nature park to the kitchen of the Order of Saint Claire 

The Río Verde runs through the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Nature Park (tel.: 958 026 000). The park, which calls to mind the mountainy massifs of the north of Spain, is a natural division between the provinces of Malaga and Granada. 

Adventure sport enthusiasts will enjoy the park's steep slopes, rapid waters and deep canyons. Species such as the Aleppo pine, the Mediterranean fan palm, the spurge olive and the box tree are all native to this area. Squirrels, Spanish wild goats and massive birds of prey also call this area home.

The El Ventorro rural lodge at Alhama de Granada, on the northern slope, is over 300 years old. Its restaurant (tel.: 958 350 438) offers the best of this area's gastronomical traditions: migas cortijeras  (breadcrumbs fried with garlic and belly pork), torreznos (bacon rashers with skin), lomo de orza (spiced pork), chorizos (spicy sausages) and, for dessert, tocino de cielo (egg yolk and syrup delight) or bienmesabe (almond, sugar and egg concoction) made by the nuns of the Order of Saint Claire from the Saint James monastery. Heading south, to nearby Nerja, the ambience and the dishes at Casa Luque (tel.: 952 521 004) are also a great option. True epicureans might prefer the French cuisine served at El Chaleco in Almuñécar (tel.: 958 632 402).