Kayaking on the Conde de Guadalhorce Reservoir

The Conde de Guadalhorce reservoir, the one you can see from the north entrance to the Caminito and which locals call the El Chorro reservoir, has calm water and pine trees growing right down to the shore. You hire a self-bailing sit-on-top kayak for two hours and paddle at your own pace up the tail of the reservoir, to corners you can't see from the road. It is the easiest activity in the area and the best fit for a free afternoon after the walk.

What's included and what it costs

You book through La Garganta, from €16. The equipment is handed over by Indian Sport at its base at Parque Ardales campsite, on the shore of the reservoir. The price includes the kayak, paddle, life jacket, a waterproof drum for your phone and keys, the navigation permit, insurance and day entry to the Parque Ardales municipal facilities. Before you set off you get a few basic instructions and a recommendation of where to paddle.

There is no guide, the difficulty is low and no experience is needed: as it is a reservoir there are no waves or currents, which is why it works well for couples, groups of friends and families. You can bring a pet for a supplement. Cancellation is free up to 48 hours beforehand; after that the money is not refunded. There are options for people with reduced mobility, but they ask you to check before booking.

When to go

The hire depends on the weather: it is changed or cancelled in heavy rain, dense fog or strong wind. On the reservoirs in this area the wind tends to pick up in mid-afternoon, so if you can choose, morning or late afternoon in summer are the calmest times. Stay close to the shore if you notice it blowing. In summer bring a hat, sun protection and water: there is no shade on the water.

Getting there and what to combine it with

The meeting point is Parque Ardales campsite, beside the reservoir, near the north entrance to the Caminito. You get there by car: from Málaga it is about an hour and from Antequera a little less. There is no direct bus to the campsite.

The natural plan is to combine it with the Caminito del Rey in the morning and the kayak in the afternoon, or with a walk to the dam and the Sillón del Rey. For lunch, El Kiosko is a few minutes away, right on the reservoir.