Pico de los Reales Trail

There is a parking lot conveniently located near the summit of Pico de los Reales. The road leading up to the summit was repaved recently and is in excellent condition, though it does have narrow sections and hairpin turns. This makes accessing the trailhead by car quite straightforward.

The Natural Park Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja generally allows dogs, but it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially given the presence of wildlife like Iberian ibex. Please ensure you follow all local regulations and clean up after your pet.

The trail offers stunning scenery year-round. However, for the most comfortable hiking experience and clearer views, spring and autumn are often ideal. During these seasons, temperatures are milder than the summer heat, and the risk of fog at the summit might be lower than in winter. Be aware that summit temperatures can be 6 to 10 degrees Celsius lower than on the coast.

Typically, there are no entrance fees or permits required for general hiking access to the Natural Park Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific regulations or temporary restrictions before your visit, especially if you plan to visit during peak times or engage in specific activities.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll encounter unpaved, gravelly, and stony paths, as well as some paved sections and rocky firebreaks. Hikers should be prepared for irregular surfaces and uneven steps. Sturdy shoes are highly recommended for sure-footedness, especially on the more challenging sections.

The trail offers incredible panoramic views. You'll pass by the Salvador Guerrero Viewpoint, which provides 180-degree views of the coastline. From the Pico de los Reales — Summit View, you can see the Mediterranean Sea, the Strait of Gibraltar, the Rock of Gibraltar, and even the African coastline on clear days. The unique pinsapo forest is also a major highlight.

The difficulty of routes to Pico de los Reales can range from moderate to hard. The specific route highlighted, "The ascent of Pico de los Reales — round trip," is considered moderate, covering about 3.77 km with 180m of elevation gain and taking around 1 hour and 17 minutes. While it requires good fitness, there are options suitable for various skill levels. Longer or steeper routes demand very good fitness and alpine experience.

The Natural Park is renowned for its unique vegetation, particularly one of the largest Spanish fir (pinsapo) forests in the world, which grows on rare peridotite rocks. You might also spot Iberian ibex (mountain goats), especially during early morning or late afternoon near the refuge.

The specific route highlighted, "The ascent of Pico de los Reales — round trip," is a loop trail. There are also other circular options available in the area, such as "Pico Los Reales from La Loma del Infierno."

Yes, near the summit, you'll find a belvedere (viewpoint), a parking lot, and even a small bar, providing some conveniences for visitors. These amenities make the summit area a comfortable spot to rest and enjoy the views.

Yes, the route covers 100% of the official trail named "Subida al Pico Los Reales." It also intersects with sections of other trails such as "[CIMA ML17] Peñas Blancas * Jubrique" and "[CIMA ML17] Peñas Blancas * Los Reales."