July 10, 2019

Visitors on El Caminito del Rey in the province of Málaga, Spain

Slip on your sturdy shoes. Put your helmet on, we’re going on a hike

You’ll need to wear a safety helmet before stepping onto the cliff-hanging path that passes above the Gorge of Gaitanes. Look around, but don’t forget to look down whenever the floors are replaced with thick glass. This is your opportunity to fully appreciate the 99-metre drop below and consider what life must be like as a mountain goat. The renovated path is far less dangerous than the original which, for many years, had no guard rails. Made for workers back in 1905, the first walkway provided access between the Chorro and Gaitanejo hydroelectric power plants.After King Alfonso XIII visited in 1921, the walkway was given its nickname, ‘The King’s Little Pathway.’ But after years of use and lack of upkeep, the nickname was updated to ‘The world’s most dangerous walkway.’ By 2001, the trail was closed, riddled with gaping holes, crumbling cement, and missing entire sections. Luckily for thrill seekers, El Caminito is no longer off limits. In 2015, after extensive renovations, one of Spain’s most beautiful (and thrilling) hikes, is again king-worthy, and open for all.