In the heart of Andalusia, in the Lecrín Valley—aptly nicknamed the “Valley of Joy” by locals—lies a true natural treasure. Amid sun-drenched orange and lemon groves, where the air is filled with the sweet scent of citrus, there is a place that offers refuge from the summer heat. This is not just a trail, but a journey into another world—cool, shadowy, and full of secrets. We’re talking about a hike along the floor of a ravine known as Barranco de la Luna, located near the tiny white village of Saleres. It’s an adventure for those seeking more than just beautiful scenery—it’s for those ready to literally step into the river to discover the hidden beauty of the land.
The path to refreshing waters
It all begins at the modest rural cemetery in Saleres. From here, a winding path descends through lush gardens, where branches are heavy with fruit. As you go down, the hot air gradually gives way to a cool freshness, and the hum of cicadas is replaced by the gentle babble of water. Here, beside a small stream, the most exciting part of the journey begins. You’ll need to leave dry land behind and step boldly into the water. The first few meters may feel unfamiliar, but the cool water quickly invigorates you, preparing you for the main event of this short trek. The trail leads upstream, directly toward the gaping dark entrance carved into the cliffs.
In the embrace of a stone giant
Step inside the canyon and reality shifts. Sunlight almost completely disappears, replaced by a gentle twilight. Towering, nearly vertical grey stone walls rise above, leaving only a narrow ribbon of blue sky visible. The temperature here is noticeably lower, and sounds echo with a deep resonance. The path, about 700 meters long, runs directly along the stream bed. In some places, the water barely reaches your ankles; elsewhere, it rises to your knees, forcing a slower, more cautious pace. This meditative journey through cool silence is broken only by the splash of your own steps and the quiet whisper of water that has, for centuries, carved the stone into whimsical curves and shapes.
Witnesses of bygone eras
The walls of the crevice are more than just stone—they are a true chronicle. A keen eye will spot ancient marine fossils worn into the rock by water. These imprints, left millions of years ago when this land formed the floor of a primordial sea, capture the imagination. They stand as silent reminders of nature’s incredible power and the passage of time. Along the way, there are small pools where you can pause and rest, and even tiny waterfalls tumbling down mossy cliffs. Each new bend reveals a different landscape, a shifting play of light and shadow, a new mystery sculpted by water into the malleable stone.
Seasoned traveler’s tips
The entire route forms a loop ranging from three and a half to four and a half kilometers, which can be comfortably completed in about an hour to an hour and a half. The elevation change is minor, around one hundred meters, making it accessible to people with basic fitness. However, proper gear is essential. Special water-walking shoes or old sneakers you don’t mind getting wet are a must. It is strongly recommended to bring neoprene socks, a waterproof case for your devices, and a change of clothes for after the hike. Before setting out, it is crucial to check the weather forecast: in heavy rain, water levels can rise sharply, turning the walk into a hazardous undertaking. The trail is perfect for walking with dogs, who usually love the chance to splash in the water. After traversing the gorge, the path climbs back up to the fields and orchards, allowing you to enjoy panoramic views of the Lecrín valley and return to the warmth and sunshine, refreshed and full of new impressions.
