Maria Jose is a locally-born professional office specialist with bilingual secretarial studies who has been working in an array of companies in the town of San Roque and Sotogrande, joining the BM Team in 2015.
When the summer heat finally eases along the Costa del Sol, it’s the perfect time to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Serranía de Ronda. And if there’s one place that feels as though it has come straight out of a fairy tale, it’s Parauta’s Enchanted Forest. 🧚♀️🍄
Among ancient chestnut trees, gnomes, fairies and wooden sculptures, this magical corner of the Genal Valley offers a wonderful experience for families, couples and friends alike.
Best of all, it’s an ideal day trip from Sotogrande, giving you the chance to unwind, breathe in the fresh mountain air and discover one of Málaga province’s most beautiful autumn landscapes.
🌿 Ready to discover it? Visit our Sotogrande Guide for more inspiration, places to explore and experiences to enjoy in the surrounding area.
The Enchanted Forest is a woodland trail that turns a simple walk in nature into a magical fairy-tale adventure. Along the route, you’ll discover sculptures of gnomes and other fantastical creatures carved from wood by a local artist.
Many of the figures have been made using wood from damaged chestnut trees, giving the timber a second life and transforming the forest into a place filled with imagination and charm. ✨
The forest is located in Parauta, in the heart of the Genal Valley, within the Serranía de Ronda, an area renowned for its natural scenery and picturesque white villages.
🚗 From Sotogrande, you can easily plan a day trip combining a woodland walk, a visit to the village and a delicious meal in the mountains.
Autumn’s star attraction is undoubtedly the famous Copper Forest. During this season, the chestnut trees transform from green to a spectacular palette of ochre, red, golden and copper tones.
The result is a landscape that looks hand-painted, with leaf-covered paths and wonderful views across the Genal Valley. Among the trees, the gnomes and fairies seem almost to come to life. 🧝♀️🌰
After the hottest summer months, autumn is the ideal time to enjoy the mountains without the intense summer heat. A light jacket, comfortable footwear and a sense of adventure are all you need for a memorable outdoor experience.
Nature is constantly evolving, and every season offers a different experience. In autumn, fallen leaves, chestnuts and the forest’s rich colours create a particularly enchanting atmosphere.
For younger visitors, every bend in the trail offers the chance to discover another magical creature. 🧚🍄
The Enchanted Forest is an excellent choice for anyone looking for something different to do near Sotogrande. Spend the morning exploring the trail, stroll around Parauta afterwards and enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the surrounding villages.
It’s a simple, nature-filled and memorable day out for the whole family. ❤️
The route is relatively short and straightforward, making it an appealing option for families with children and anyone who prefers gentle walks.
However, some sections may have uneven ground, particularly after rainfall. If you’re bringing a pushchair, check the trail conditions and accessibility in advance.
The route connects Parauta with the surrounding area of Cartajima, and anyone wishing to explore further can discover additional trails and natural beauty spots throughout the Serranía de Ronda.
🎟️ Tip: Check local access conditions before travelling, as the state of the trail can change with the weather and any temporary restrictions.
Don’t leave without exploring Parauta itself. This small white village in the Serranía de Ronda invites you to wander through its narrow streets, admire its traditional architecture and enjoy the mountain views.
📸 Look out for corners decorated with figures, discover its little squares and take the opportunity to capture some beautiful photographs.
If you have more time, extend your trip by visiting other charming villages in the area:
It’s a wonderful opportunity to explore a part of Andalusia where nature, tradition and unforgettable landscapes come together.
Before setting off from Sotogrande, keep these recommendations in mind:
Travelling by car is the most convenient option. Allow approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on your route, traffic and road conditions.
Enter Parauta into your navigation app and check the precise location of the trail entrance before setting off.
Our suggestion is to spend the morning in the forest and reserve the afternoon for exploring the village and enjoying a meal in the Serranía de Ronda. 🍽️🍷
If you’re looking for something different to do this autumn, Parauta’s Enchanted Forest is a wonderful way to escape the everyday routine and reconnect with nature.
🍁 Wander beneath golden chestnut trees, discover fairy-tale sculptures, explore a beautiful white village and let yourself be captivated by the landscapes of the Genal Valley.
And if you’d like to discover more experiences, special places and ideas for enjoying the region, visit Sotogrande Guide, your starting point for inspiration and planning your next getaway.
🌿 This autumn, swap your routine for a fairy-tale forest. The magic awaits in Parauta! 🧚♀️🍂