Exploring the Senda Litoral on Foot: A 200-Kilometre Coastal Adventure on Spain's Costa del Sol

Introduction

In the world of swim, bike, and run, where training plans and finish lines dominate the conversation, there lies a stretch of Spain's Costa del Sol that beckoned me not only as a triathlon coach seeking challenge but as a curious adventurer yearning to explore. The Senda Litoral, a 200-kilometre coastal tapestry, became more than just a route; it emerged as a holiday for the body, mind, and spirit — a journey to uncover the secrets etched in the sun-kissed cliffs and azure waters.

This is not your typical triathlon course, but a canvas where endurance meets exploration, and the Costa del Sol's coastline reveals its intimate tales. Join me as I trade the stopwatch for sunsets, the bike for beachside strolls, and the pool for plunges into the refreshing embrace of the Mediterranean. This is not just a challenge; it's a celebration of the artistry found in the rhythm of coastal living.

Welcome to my triathlon coach's perspective on the Senda Litoral — where the thrill of the journey competes with the thrill of the race, and every kilometre unveils a new facet of the Costa del Sol's coastal allure.

This Blog covers how we completed the whole of the Senda Litoral self-supported on foot from Nerja to Manilva.

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The Senda Litoral is sign posted with a blue symbol

Overview of Senda Litoral

The Senda Litoral, also known as the Coastal Path or Coastal Trail, is a spectacular route along the Mediterranean coastline of the Costa del Sol in southern Spain. Here are some key details about this picturesque trail:

• Length: The Senda Litoral spans approximately 200 kilometres (124 miles), making it one of the longest coastal trails in Spain. This distance provides a diverse range of landscapes, from bustling urban areas to serene beaches and rugged cliffs.
• Starting and Ending Points: The starting and ending points of the Senda Litoral can vary based on the specific sections or routes you choose to take. However, the trail generally stretches from Nerja in the eastern part of the Costa del Sol to Manilva in the west. Nerja is known for its stunning Balcon de Europa, while Manilva offers vineyards and historical sites.

Significant Landmarks and Attractions:

1. Balcon de Europa (Nerja): A famous viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding coastline.
2. Caves of Nerja (Nerja): A series of naturally formed caves with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, providing a fascinating underground experience.
3. Malaga City: As the capital of the province, Malaga offers a rich cultural experience with historical sites such as the Alcazaba fortress, the Gibralfaro Castle, and the Picasso Museum.
4. Marbella: Known for its upscale amenities, Marbella features a beautiful Old Town (Casco Antiguo), the Golden Mile, and the glamorous Puerto Banús.
5. Estepona: This town boasts a well-preserved historic centre, botanical gardens, and lovely beaches.
6. Torremolinos, Benalmádena, and Fuengirola: These towns are popular tourist destinations along the Costa del Sol, known for their beaches, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
7. La Cala de Mijas: A charming coastal village with a relaxed atmosphere, offering a pleasant stop along the trail.
8. Puerto de la Duquesa (Manilva): A picturesque marina in Manilva with a charming promenade, shops, and restaurants.
9. Gibraltar: While not directly on the Senda Litoral, the iconic Rock of Gibraltar is visible from certain points along the coast, adding a unique aspect to the scenery.

The Senda Litoral provides a remarkable journey for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts, offering a blend of coastal beauty, cultural richness, and the warmth of the Mediterranean atmosphere.

You can find out more about it on the Senda Litoral website.

When to Walk the Senda Litoral

You can walk the Senda Litoral all year round but my advise would be to walk it in Sprint or Autumn when the temperature is not as hot as the summer months so you walk all day if you want to. The best months would be September to July and avoiding August when it is simply too hot and crowded. If you plan to do it June to September then I would plan to set off at sunrise and get the majority of your walking completed before the high heat of the day.

If you plan to walk the Senda Litoral January to March then you will need to pack more and include a pair of long trousers, long sleeved top and rain jacket on top of what I list in the kit list a the bottom of this blog. 

Rainbow steps in Nerja at the beginning of our Senda Litoral Journey

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Preparation

We decided to do the whole walk self-supported which meant that we had to pack everything we needed in a rucksack and carry it the whole length. The trick was to pack light but ensure that everything essential was in a comfortable bag. We decided to use rucksacks from Decathlon and they were comfortable for majority of each day’s hike they did not have enough shoulder padding for my needs. On our next long hike, I will be using a more padded, women specific rucksack. I have since purchased the Osprey Tempest 20L backpack and it is much more comfortable and can be adjusted to take the weight across your shoulders, back and chest so you can walk longer.

We used compression packing cubes for our clothes and these were great to keep the volume low. Compeed blister platers were a saviour. We tried cheaper brands, but they did not do the job as well. You will more than likely get blisters on this trek and if you do forget to pack them you can get them easily from a pharmacy on-route, but you will need to head inland to find one.

I tried out lots for socks before the trip as I don’t usually wear them, years of triathlon training has made me not use socks for training or racing but I knew that this walk would be different. I found Smart Wool socks to be the best and I only needed two pairs for the 10 days as they could be washed and dried easily.

We also took swimming costumes and googles to allow us to swim in the afternoon to help ease our muscles. This may seem like a luxury but well worth it! My favourite googles are the Zoggs Predator Flex.

The other essentials were phone, charge cables, smart watch (I used a Coros Pace 3 as the battery life is phenomenal), suncream, whistle, carabiner light, medication, water bottle, waterdrop hydration tablets, scarab multi-tool .

We found we only needed shorts, t-shirts, and a long-sleeved top.

Another top tip is to pack a pair of lightweight flip-flops you can use to give your feet a break from your walking shoes. We both used trail running shoes. I used ASICS Trabuco Max 2 and Sean had the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3.

Our full kit list is at the end of this Blog.

Pack light when you so a self supported walk - this is my €12.99 Decathlon Quechua 20L rucksack

Training

We have been doing a lot of walking in the mountains behind our house in Spain so for this trip we extended these walks plus did a long coastal walk every weekend. It’s important to ensure you can walk for at least four hours before you try this. The walk is primarily flat you will encounter sand, rocks, gravel and more plus walking day after day will add in extra fatigue.

Research

The route itself is fairly straight forward and we used the Google maps overlay to plan our route. If you simply use Google to route a walking route, we found it did not find the Senda and would send you inland. The most planning was in finding somewhere to stay every night and every day was different and sometimes things like blisters or lots of walking on sand would make the distance shorter so planning days ahead was impossible. We also had to plan where to park our car at the start and how to get back to it. We ended up using a train, bus, and an Uber when the bus we had planned did not arrive!

preparation process before starting the journey.

Discuss the gear you packed, the physical training you did, and any research you conducted about the trail.

The Senda Litoral Coastal Path fro Nerja to Manilva on the Costa del Sol

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Day-by-Day Senda Litoral Itinerary

This is a day by day account of our self supported walk/hike along the whole of the Senda Litoral. I've included the kilometres covered every day, details of interesting land marks or features and the hotels we stayed in.

Day 1

Nerja – Lagos – Algarrobo – Caleta – Torre Del Mar

Distance: 24km

Calories burned: 2834

The day started by driving to our mechanic in Nerja so we could park the car there for the duration. This made the walk a bit longer as we had to walk to the official start at the Balcon de Europa. It was still dark as we wanted to set off before 8am. The moon was out and very large with a large star above it. There is not a Senda Litoral sign at this location which was slightly disappointing. From there we kept as close to the coast as possible but had to walk through town in order to get to the first official sign. We made great time and got to Torro before 10am so decided to walk to El Morche for breakfast a Luka’s Café.

We got to the hotel Miraya in good time and were able to check in early. They had full British TV which was a surprise but no swimming pool. We know Torre del Mar well so headed to Brujas for a menu del dia. We eat there a lot and their menu del dia is great value for money at only €11.90 for three courses.

Day 1: Nerja Balcon de Europa the starting point at sun rise

Day 2

Torre del Mar – Niza Beach – Benajarafe – Benalgalbon – Rincon

Distance: 18km

Calories burned: 2500

The path was good today and we again made good time so stopped for breakfast at 11am at the campsite which was a typical breakfast of tostada, tomato, tuna, and olive oil.

We walked on to Rincon which was mainly dirt track and stayed at the Hotel Fay which did not have a swimming pool. We had a late lunch at restaurant that served Indian, Mexican and Pizza in one place – it was truly a jack of all trades and master of none and was one of the worst Indian meals in Spain there.

Caleta Port - one of the many ports and marinas we passed on the Senda Litoral

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Day 3

Rincon – Malaga – Torremolinos

Distance: 27.7km / 45719 steps

Calories burned: 3376

Today was a big one and it was no surprise that I got a big blister on my ankle. I had to crack open the plasters. We have visited Rincon many times by was surprised that at the far end of the beach area was a series of tunnels, bridges, and sculptures.

We stopped for breakfast again at 11am at El Palo, Makian Beach and enjoyed a lovely toasted sandwich of turkey, egg, tomato and avocado.

The senda was fully paved and easy to walk on. We stopped for lunch at 2pm for a menu del dia at Cafeterria Barenostrum and had puchero, chicken breast in mushroom sauce and cheesecake for €10.90.

We then headed off to Torremolinos and checked into Hotel Costa del Sol which had a cold outdoor swimming pool, large room and bath. We took full advantage of a hot soak so ease our muscles.  

The steps and tunnels in Rincon on the Senda Litoral

Day 4

Torremolinos – Benalmadena - Fuengirola

Distance: 18km / 30,000 steps

Calories burned; 2099

The Senda on this leg was mostly paved with great signage. Parts of the Senda were being upgraded and closed so we had to divert onto the road. The route had lots of steps up and down in parts so was a bit heavy on the quads. The steps took us past a nudist beech.

The Marina in Benalmadena was a pleasant surprise has proven itself as being one of the top marinas in the world. With many restaurants, shopping, attractions, and nightlife. It has won the award "Best Marina in the World' several times.

We had breakfast at 11am at the Wigan Bar in Benalmadena and had poached eggs on toast.

We checked in at Hotel Angela which had two pools, massage, and sauna. I had a great swim which eased my muscles. The hotel had a kettle in the room and British TV.

We had a late lunch in a restaurant called La Casa de la Pizza which served Indian, Mexican and Pizza but this time the food was good and portions huge!

The Marina in Benalmadena on the Senda Litoral on a cloudy early morning

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Day 5

Fuengirola – Cala de Mijas

Distance: 13km / 23506 steps

Calories burned: 1812

The Senda today was a bit soul (sole) destroying as we had to walk on the path that ran long the A7 busy road. It seemed to go on forever! We could see the sea all the way along but with the cars rushing by it mad it unpleasant. We ended up escaping the A7 route by dropping down to the beach which was harder to walk on, but we could at least see the sea close up and peer into rock pools.

We stopped for breakfast at 11am at a place called El Torreon for sour dough toast, avocado and poached egg. The beach in la Cala de Mijas is beautiful and sandy.

We checked in to the VIK Grand Hotel which had a bath in the room and an outdoor swimming pool.

We went for a walk to find lunch and went under the A7 and found a restaurant doing a menu del dia which served rabo de toro (ox tail) rolls and gravy.

The beach at Cala de Mijas - watch out for the Senda Litoral signs!

Day 6

Cala de Mijas – Marbella/Calahonda

Distance: 6km

Calories burned: 893

This day was a rest day due to blisters plus we found it hard to find a hotel. Before we set off, we had a menu del dia in the BP garage which was €10 for three courses.

The short walk took us to the Rancho Grande hotel which was very basic but practical due to the lack of hotels available in the area.

The Senda on this leg was excellent and mostly wooden walkways and the toilets were open which has not been the case on many of the route west of Malaga.

The short walk today was a good idea and worked well to rest our bodies ready for the next half of the Senda.

It's not all pathway on the Senda Litoral and sometimes you have to navigate the rocks - on the way to Marbella

Day 7

Marbella

Distance: 15.68km

Calories burned: 2008

Today was a lot of beach walking as the Senda is unfinished on this leg. One of the sections was very rocky and the tide was in, so we got wet feet. It was hot and sunny, so our shoes and socks soon dried out. There were also no toilets on the first half of the route – this was a continual problem so my rule was to take the opportunity when you can when you see an open toilet. We spotted a restaurant which was not open but persuaded the owner to open it for a coffee and comfort break, it was called Los Sardinales. Breakfast was a Danish pastry from a random guy on the beach selling them from a tray – it was delicious!

We then arrived at some dunes and there was a good bit of completed Senda here. We then had to go back on the beach then spotted a brand-new bit of Senda not on the map and went on this for about 500m. The Senda in this area is brown wood with red accents. Back on the beach for about 1km then there was a long bit of red and brown wood Senda. On this stretch there were bridges and it’s worth looking over the side of the bridge to the water as there are lots of wildlife and on one bridge, we saw a large turtle bathing on a rock. The wooden walkway then turned into pathed and we arrived at our hotel – Hostel El Caprichito, Marbella. We booked a suite, and it was right at the top with a private terrace and kettle (kettles are not common in Spain).

The Senda Litoral near Marbella is recognised by the red and brown wooden walkways

Day 8

Marbella – Estapona

Distance: 15km

Calories burned: 1645

The day started on a tiled pathway then onto compacted yellow sand which passed the famous “Golden Mile” of Marbella. The Golden Mile´s association with ultra-expensive property, the ever-present golden sun, golden sand beaches, of nobility and the rich and famous. This stretch was the

busiest part of the Senda we had seen so far with many walkers, dog walkers, bikes, and scooters.

The compacted yellow sand path gave way to the red and brown wooden pathway. This stretch had what looked like a continuous bench seat on one side and handrails on the other all made of wood.

We stopped for our usual 11am breakfast at a restaurant called the Exotica Café. I had eggs benedict which was excellent, but it was let down by rude staff unfortunately.

The next section was a tough 3km of rocky beach – another quad burning section. Again this section was devoid of toilets.

We reached our hotel called the Hotel Sol, Marbella. This hotel did not have a kettle or water in the room and had a severe lack of plug sockets. We managed to find another menu del dia at the Gastrobar de Arturo, which I had, and Sean had a mega burger. Thet called is a “plato del dia” so it did not include a drink or desert and cost €12.50. There was also an Aldi nearby, so we stocked up on water and fruit.

The hotel was big and included breakfast. I was able to get porridge and decaf coffee which was a bonus. There was a pool, but we ran out of time to use it as it closed early (plus it was outside and unheated).

A red path on the Senda Litoral in Marbella past green open areas ideal for morning yoga

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Day 9

Estapona

Distance: 18.24km

Calories burned: 2234

Today was started on the beach and it was a hard 2.5km slog on soft sand and rocks until we found hard ground Senda. The compacted sand Senda changed to red concrete and then the usual red and brown wooded path. This was going to be a long one today and even though the Senda was primarily red and brown wood there were no open toilets for 9km and more, so we had to dive into a BP garage to use their facilities.

When we got to the main Estapona paseo we finally found open toilets and tiled pavement. We walked past the port and then through a large mud carpark with lots of campervans enjoying free camping. After the carpark the Senda was paved right to the hotel called H10.

At the H10 we treated ourselves to half board. There was a heated outdoor pool and to use it you needed to pay €15 euro deposit for a towel. The pool was great, and I managed a good lap swim session to prep for the buffet dinner. There was a dress code for dinner which we knew we could not meet with what we packed in our small rucksacks! Somehow, we managed to dress up enough to get passed the front of house staff. The buffet had everything, so we ate too much. I had a large salad and freshly cooked tuna and Sean had roast pork. The desert area had baked cheesecake and Haribo so we were both catered for!

Estapona had some of the best stretches of Senda Litoral

Day 10

Estapona – Manilva

Distance: 13.70km

Calories burned: 1579

By this time, I had a large blister on my toe and one on my heal so the Compeeds were in play again. We had a very large breakfast again before leaving and managed to make a couple of sandwiches for the walk ahead (everyone does this don’t they?).

This final part of our journey was going to be “bitty” – a bit of Senda and a bit of beach walking and some gravel paths. The beach was very rocky and slippery so we left it as soon as we could up a muddy verge on our hand and knees. It was worth it to get off the rocks. Again, the toilets were infrequent and when we did find them, they were locked. In order to use a toilet in a café we had to stop for coffee which was a welcome break at the port, marina do la Duquesa.

From there we got on to a gravel pathway and got to the end of the Senda Litoral!

End of the Senda Litoral in Manilva

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Getting Back to our Car

Now we had to get back to the car. We tried to get a bus to Cala de Mijas but after waiting 30 minutes I hailed an Uber for €70! From Cala de Mijas we took a bus to Fuengirola (€1.55), then a train to Malaga Central Station (€4.10). The next part was a bus from Malaga central bus stop all the way to Nerja for €5.20.

Challenges and Triumphs

The biggest challenge was trying not to get blisters. Even though we had the wonderful Compeed plasters then still got painful every day after about 10km.

We have never done a self-supported walk before so at the beginning we were a bit nervous but by the end confident we had what we needed to complete the trek.

Finding hotels to stay in at the right distance was an on-going challenge but we were able to book two days at a time once we knew more about how much walking we could do with rucksacks every day.

The fatigue mounted after 5 days, and it was worth taking a very short day half way through to recuperate.

Practical Tips for Future Senda Litoral Trekkers

Here’s a list of my top tips for a 10-day self-supported hike or walk of the Senda Litoral:

1. If you see a toilet use it!
2. Pack Compeed blister plasters.
3. Use merino wool socks.
4. Mix up long and short days.
5. Do a short day about halfway to recuperate.
6. Don’t plan your hotel stops too far ahead – things happen and change.
7. Drink lots of water.
8. Pack flip flops to give your feet a rest in the evenings.
9. Look over the bridges on the route to spot wildlife like turtles.
10. Pack a pen knife.
11. If you think you may stay in a posh hotel with a dress code pack something appropriate. E.g. polo short and zip off trousers.
12. If your hotel has a swimming pool use it.

Conclusion

I would thoroughly recommend taking on all or parts of the Senda Litoral. It was good to compare and contrast the towns East and West of Malaga and finding new places to go back and visit in the future.

We certainly saw some interesting wildlife, an array of different type of beaches and different styles of walkways and paths.

They are adding to the route every month to make the Senda Litoral a continuous path and we will certainly do it again to experience the changes.

Completing the whole of the Senda Litoral has spurred us on to tackle others and we are currently planning one in Morocco.

Please get in touch if you would like more advice or have questions about tackling the Senda Litoral.

Do you want to experience the best place to swim, bike, run or walk in Andalucía? Download your free guide book.

Karen Parnell is a Level 3 British Triathlon and IRONMAN U Certified Coach, WOWSA Level 3 open water swimming coach, 80/20 Endurance Certified Coach and NASM Personal Trainer and Sports Technology Writer. 

Need a training plan? I have plans on TrainingPeaks and FinalSurge:

TrainingPeaks

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I also coach a very small number of athletes one to one for all triathlon distances, open water swimming events and running races, email me for details and availability. Karen.parnell@chilitri.com

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Senda Litoral

1. What is the Senda Litoral?

The Senda Litoral is a coastal trail that spans the Costa del Sol in Spain, offering a stunning 200-kilometer route along the Mediterranean coastline. It connects various towns and beaches, providing a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and recreational opportunities.

2. How long does it take to complete the Senda Litoral?

The time to complete the Senda Litoral depends on individual preferences and pace. On average, it takes around 7 to 14 days to cover the entire trail. Some may choose to complete specific sections over shorter periods.

3. What is the best time to embark on the Senda Litoral?

The ideal time to hike or bike the Senda Litoral is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the landscape is in full bloom. Summers can be hot, and winters may bring rain, so plan accordingly.

4. Do I need special equipment for the Senda Litoral?

Comfortable walking, trail running or hiking shoes are essential, as well as suitable clothing for the weather. If you plan to cycle, ensure your bike is in good condition – a mountain or gravel bike is best as some of the route is off-road and rocky. Carrying a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a trail map is also recommended.

5. Are there accommodations along the route?

Yes, the Senda Litoral passes through towns and villages with various accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. It's advisable to plan your overnight stays in advance, especially during peak seasons.

6. How difficult is the Senda Litoral?

The Senda Litoral is designed to accommodate a range of fitness levels. While some sections may be challenging, the overall trail offers a mix of easy and moderate terrain. It's suitable for both experienced hikers and beginners, as well as cyclists.

7. Are there places to eat along the route?

Yes, the trail passes through towns and villages where you can find restaurants, cafes, and local eateries. Be sure to try the regional cuisine and enjoy the diverse culinary experiences offered along the coast.

8. Is it safe to travel alone on the Senda Litoral?

The trail is generally safe, and many solo travellers embark on the Senda Litoral. However, it's always advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as informing someone of your itinerary, carrying a phone, and being aware of your surroundings.

9. Can I combine the Senda Litoral with other activities?

Absolutely! The Costa del Sol offers various recreational activities, including water sports, cultural tours, and relaxation on the beautiful beaches. Many travellers combine the Senda Litoral with additional experiences to make the most of their trip.

10. How do I get to the starting point of the Senda Litoral?

The starting point of the Senda Litoral may vary depending on your chosen section, but you can start in Nerja or Manilva as these are the two end points. Most travellers fly into Malaga Airport, which is well-connected internationally. From there, you can use public transportation or hire a car to reach your starting point.

11. What are the towns the Senda Litoral passes through?

The Senda Litoral passes through various towns along the Costa del Sol in Spain, offering a diverse and scenic journey. Here are some of the towns that the trail may pass by or be in close proximity to:

• Nerja: Located on the eastern end of the Costa del Sol, known for its picturesque beaches and the famous Balcony of Europe.
• Torrox: A charming town with a historic old quarter and beautiful coastal landscapes.
• Torre del Mar: A coastal town with a lively atmosphere, featuring a long promenade and beaches.
• Vélez-Málaga: A historic town with cultural attractions, including the Fortress of Vélez-Málaga and the Church of Santa María.
• Rincón de la Victoria: Known for its beaches and the Caves of Treasure, which are archaeological caves with prehistoric remains.
• Málaga: The capital of the province, Málaga offers a mix of cultural attractions, historic sites, and a vibrant city atmosphere.
• Benalmádena: Home to the popular Benalmádena Pueblo, a picturesque old town, and the modern Benalmádena Costa with its marina and beaches.
• Fuengirola: A bustling town with a lively nightlife, a zoo, and a medieval Moorish fortress.
• Mijas: A charming white-washed village with narrow streets, stunning views, and a donkey taxi service.
• Marbella: Known for its upscale amenities, beautiful Old Town (Casco Antiguo), and glamorous Puerto Banús.
• San Pedro de Alcántara: A town with a mix of modern and traditional elements, situated west of Marbella.
• Estepona: A town with a charming historic center, botanical gardens, and beautiful beaches.
• Manilva: Known for its vineyards, beachfront, and the Castillo de la Duquesa.

These are just some of the towns you may encounter along the Senda Litoral. The trail allows you to explore the rich cultural and natural diversity of the Costa del Sol.

A beautiful sandy part of the Senda Litoral

Full Kit List

Rucksack

We used low cost Decathlon 20L and 25L rucksacks but since the walk/hike I have changed to an  Osprey Tempest 20L backpack and it is much more comfortable and can be adjusted to take the weight across your shoulders, back and chest so you can walk longer. I would recommend spending your money on a good quality backpack as this will make you walk more enjoyable and last for many years.

Quick Drying Hiking Shorts. I packed a pair from Decathlon that would dry after a long day of walking and could be washed and dried over night if they got dirty.

Leggings with mesh phone holder from Queenieke - I packed these just in case the weather was a bit cooler in the mornings but actually came in handy when we had to "dress for dinner" at the H10 all inclusive hotel. This was my most dressy pair of trousers. Men had to wear a collar and long trousers so I would recommend packing a pair for the weather and other situations! These leggings by Queenieke are good quality and hard wearing plus look good enough for evning wear.

3 x lightweight, quick-drying short sleeve tops. I packed two hiking Columbia t-shirts and a yoga top from Decathlon. The Columbia t-shirts are comfortable and quick drying and the yoga top was good enough for evening wear.

1 x lightweight, quick drying long sleeve base layer. This was just in case it was cool in the morning but I did not use it on our trip but well worth packing. I packed a Helly Hansen one which I use for skiing and pack really small.

Jacket. I wore this some mornings and then had to wrap it around my waist after 10am when the sun's heat kicked in. Mine was a Columbia jacket with hood.

2 x pairs of hiking socks. I would recommend Merino wool socks like the ones from Smartwool.

A pair of flip-flops or walking sandals. After wearing your trail running shoes or walking boots all day you won't want to wear them in the evening as well.

A hat. A base ball style cap or light weight walking hat is best to keep the sun out of your eyes.

A reusable water bottle. If you plan to use tap water then one with a filter is worth getting like the UltraPress water purifier from Camp Black.

Blister Plasters. I use Compeed blister plasters and they really are worth every penny. I have tried other brands of blister plaster or standard plasters and they don't come close to Compeeds.

Sunscreen. You can pack a small bottle or purchase it from the many Farmacia's on the route.

Sunglasses. Sunglasses are very personal but make sure the ones you buy have sufficient UVA/UVB protection.  Polarized lenses can also be beneficial as they filter bright light (whether that be directly from the sun or from reflective surfaces such as snow, water and sand) and improve your clarity of vision.

Smart Watch or activity tracker with GPS. This is great to keep track of your mileage and share your adventure. I have the COROS Pace 3.

Waterproof jacket. You may not need this most fo the year but if you do the trail in early Spring you may need it. Choose one that packs very small and can hang on a carabiner on the outside of your rucksack. A cycling jacket like a Altura Pocket Rocket is ideal.

Trail Running or Walking Boots. We both used trail running shoes which are fine for this route.  I used ASICS Trabuco Max 2 and Sean had the New Balance Fresh Foam X More Trail v3.

Lubrication. Some sort of eco friendly lube for you feet is advisable to help avoid your shoes rubbing and causing blisters. Compeed have a version.

Phone and Phone Charger. Remember to pack a cable and charger for you phone that you can use in a Spanish socket.

Clip on Torch / Adventure Light This is really handy and does not weigh much or take up room.

Quick Drying Underwear. You don't need enough for 10 days but choose ones that you can wash in your hotel room and dry quickly! Runners underwear are good for this.