The Guadalhorce and Guadalteba reservoirs form a spectacular lake system just above El Chorro and close to the Caminito del Rey in Málaga province. The turquoise water, pine-covered hills, dramatic cliffs and historic dams make this a worthwhile place to explore in its own right, rather than simply somewhere you pass on the way to the Caminito.
The reservoir system is made up of three interconnected reservoirs: Conde de Guadalhorce, Guadalhorce and Guadalteba. Around the lakes you can find viewpoints, historic sites, walking routes and places to stop and enjoy the scenery, while the surrounding cliffs are also an important area for climbing and wildlife.
The three Reservoirs are nestled in a stunning area of outstanding beauty close to El Chorro and the Caminito del Rey and within the boundaries of the Natural Park area called “Desfiladero de los Gaitanes“.
This natural environment corresponds to the village of Ardales but only one of the reservoirs, the Conde de Guadalhorce, is in the municipality of Ardales. The other two lakes are in the municipalities of Teba, Campillos and Antequera .
Conde de Guadalhorce Reservoir
Construction of the Conde de Guadalhorce Reservoir began in the autumn of 1914 under the direction of engineer Rafael Benjumea. Originally known as Pantano del Chorro, the reservoir was completed in 1921 and inaugurated by King Alfonso XIII.
The king’s visit is closely connected with the history of the Caminito del Rey. Alfonso XIII walked along the pathway beside the gorge during the inauguration, and the route subsequently became known as the Caminito del Rey – the King’s Little Pathway.
In 1953, the reservoir was renamed Conde de Guadalhorce in honour of Rafael Benjumea, who had been given the title Conde de Guadalhorce.
Guadalhorce – Guadalteba Reservoirs
Construction of the Guadalhorce and Guadalteba reservoirs began in the spring of 1966. The two reservoirs were completed in 1971 and 1973 respectively, creating the large lake system you see today.
Building the dams also meant major changes to the surrounding infrastructure. A new railway line and three sections of road had to be constructed because parts of the existing railway and roads were flooded as the reservoirs filled.
The changes also had a profound effect on the local communities. Residents of Peñarrubia and its neighbourhood of Gobantes, where the old railway station was located, were forced to leave their homes, which were eventually lost beneath the rising waters.
This gives the section a little more weight than simply saying the reservoirs were built, while preserving your original local-history material.
The King’s Chair and Casa del Conde
One of the most interesting reminders of the reservoir’s history is the King’s Chair, located beside the dam of the Conde de Guadalhorce Reservoir. The stone chair and table are traditionally associated with the visit of King Alfonso XIII, who sat here and signed the document marking the completion of the reservoir project.
From the King’s Chair, look across the reservoir and you can see the impressive Casa del Conde, the former house of the chief engineer Rafael Benjumea. The building is currently closed to the public, but its position overlooking the reservoir gives you a good idea of the importance of the site during the construction of the dam.
You can also walk across the dam wall to the small church, which was also used as a school. Continue a few hundred metres beyond the dam and you’ll reach La Posada del Conde, where you can stop for something to eat or stay overnight.
Walking around the resrvoirs
There are several signposted footpaths around the reservoirs, making it possible to explore the area beyond the dam and viewpoints. The paths pass through pine woodland and areas of eucalyptus, with Mediterranean plants including thyme, rosemary and broom.
Walking here is a good way to experience the quieter side of the El Chorro area, particularly if you have more time after visiting the Caminito del Rey. Take water with you and allow extra time if you plan to explore beyond the main reservoir area.
Wildlife watching and viewpoints
The reservoirs and surrounding woodland are home to a variety of wildlife, making this a pleasant area for birdwatching and nature walks. The lakes contain fish including barbel and carp, while birds you may see around the water and cliffs include kingfishers, red-billed choughs and griffon vultures. With luck, you may also hear or see a European eagle owl.
Mammals found in the wider area include Spanish ibex, foxes, otters, rabbits, wild boar, genets and red deer. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, of course, but the combination of woodland, water and dramatic cliffs makes the reservoirs an interesting place to keep your eyes open.
The Mirador viewpoint
Another worthwhile stop is the Mirador, located a little further up the hill from the El Mirador restaurant. From here you get a bird’s-eye view across the reservoir system and the surrounding countryside. It is particularly worthwhile if you want to appreciate just how extensive the network of reservoirs and surrounding landscape is.
When is the best time to visit the reservoirs?
If you are looking for a quieter experience, spring and autumn are particularly good times to explore the reservoirs, especially during the week. Summer weekends can be much busier around the lakes, with people coming to swim and kayak.
The reservoirs can be visited throughout the year, but conditions and the atmosphere change with the seasons. If you are also visiting the Caminito del Rey, it is worth considering the weather and temperature when planning your day. Our Best Time to Visit the Caminito del Rey guide has more information about conditions throughout the year.
Even when the lakeside is busy, the cliffs around El Chorro remain an important destination for climbers, and there is plenty to explore away from the main visitor areas
FAQ: Visiting the Guadalhorce and Guadalteba Reservoirs
The Guadalhorce and Guadalteba reservoirs form a system of three man-made lakes in the area around El Chorro and the Desfiladero de los Gaitanes Natural Park. The three reservoirs are the Conde de Guadalhorce, Guadalhorce and Guadalteba. They are close to the Caminito del Rey and are surrounded by dramatic cliffs, pine woodland and countryside.
The reservoirs are located in Málaga province, close to El Chorro, Ardales and the Caminito del Rey. The Conde de Guadalhorce Reservoir is the one closest to the main visitor area around the dam, King’s Chair and Casa del Conde, while the Guadalhorce and Guadalteba reservoirs extend further across the surrounding municipalities.
There is more to see than the reservoirs themselves. Highlights include the King’s Chair, the historic Casa del Conde, the dam wall and the small church that was also used as a school. You can also visit the Mirador viewpoint, follow signposted footpaths through the surrounding woodland, and stop at La Posada del Conde for food or accommodation.
Swimming and kayaking are popular activities around the reservoirs, particularly during the warmer months. However, conditions and access can vary, so visitors should follow any local restrictions and safety information in place when they visit.
The reservoirs and surrounding countryside support a variety of wildlife. Birds you may see include kingfishers, red-billed choughs and griffon vultures, while the wider area is home to animals including Spanish ibex, foxes, otters, wild boar, genets and red deer. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the combination of water, woodland and cliffs makes the area well worth exploring for nature lovers.
For a quieter visit, spring and autumn on a weekday are particularly good choices. Summer weekends can be much busier around the lakes, especially when people come to swim and kayak. The reservoirs can be visited throughout the year, although conditions and visitor numbers vary with the season.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
2 thoughts on “Guadalhorce and Guadalteba Reservoirs: What to See Near Caminito del Rey”
Comments are closed.