Gaitanes

Gaitanes, also known as the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes, is a limestone gorge in the province of Málaga, southern Spain. The Guadalhorce River cuts through the rock, creating a deep and narrow canyon that lies between the municipalities of Álora and Ardales. The gorge is a prominent feature in the regional landscape and is noted for its steep cliffs and scenic outlooks.

A major point of interest within the Gaitanes area is the Caminito del Rey, a historic route that clings to the rock face along the gorge. The walkway was originally constructed in the early 20th century to provide access to hydroelectric facilities at El Chorro and to connect maintenance points. After a long period of disrepair and safety concerns, the route was closed and later rebuilt, reopening in 2015 as a guided, safety-controlled path. The Caminito del Rey tours several sections of the gorge and offers views of the canyon and river.

The region is also home to a historic suspension bridge known as the Puente Colgante de los Gaitanes, which spans the gorge and stands as a landmark of regional engineering heritage. The Gaitanes area attracts visitors for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and nature observation, with various trails and viewpoints accessible from nearby towns.

In summary, the Gaitanes denotes a notable gorge in Málaga Province characterized by dramatic geology, the Caminito del Rey route, and its associated engineering landmark, contributing to the area's ecological and tourism significance.