The Los Tres Picos Trekking Challenge is here!
Get your trekking boots ready… we are off to conquer 3 of Spain’s highest peaks in one long weekend! All for a good cause.
Located in the stunning Sierra Nevada National Park, our Spanish 3 peak challenge will consist of summiting Alcazaba at 3,371m, Veleta at 3,394m and finally Spain’s highest – Mulhacén at 3,482m. The mountain range is the second highest in Europe after the Alps and includes 15 peaks higher than 3,000m.
Crossing the Sierra Nevada is going to be a tough challenge, but the view across Spain’s mainland from its highest peaks will reward our tough efforts.
Be part of something amazing – Trek the Tres Picos and support your local charity!
The Sierra Nevada “Big 3″ (Los Tres Picos) Challenge
The Sierra Nevada contains the highest peaks in Western Europe outside the Alps. This is the ultimate “big one” for all charity fundraising in the Sierra Nevada. Other companies use the highest peak of Mulhacen as a goal. We prefer to up the ante! Our aim is to cover the 3 highest peaks in 3 day challenge!
Beware though, this is a toughie! The effects of altitude will be felt and the peak of Alcazaba is remote. We have many options available in order that you can “tailor” your challenge to fit. Contact us for further details and to obtain a full itinerary.
Itinerary for the Los Tres Picos
Day 1
Arrive Malaga. Transfer to hotel (2 hrs). Evening meet to discuss the trip
Day 2 Veleta – 3,398m
Travel to Hoya de la Mora (2500m). Ascend the north ridge of Veleta (3,398m), the third highest peak in mainland Spain. The going is rough and rocky but the summit is reached after approx a 3 hour trek. There are outstanding views in all directions – especially southwards over the Mediterranean Sea towards Morocco. Heading south from the summit we reach the Col de Cariguela and follow good tracks past the Paso de los Machos until we reach the head of the Rio Seco Valley. We drop down and descend trackless slopes before contouring round a headland and reaching our overnight stay at the Refugio Poqueira with dinner.
Trekking information – 900m ascent, 16km trek taking approx. 8 hours
Day 3 Mulhacen (3,482m)
Traverse into the Rio Mulhacen Valley and up to the Laguna de Caldera, set amid a cirque of peaks. We ascend the steep, relentless west flank of Mulhacen (3,482m, the highest peak in mainland Spain). Although steep no hands are necessary but we take it slow and steady as the altitude may have a small effect here. The summit is reached in about 4hrs. It is a great viewpoint and the whole 50km chain of peaks can be seen. We return down the long and gentle south ridge before dropping steeply south west directly down to the Poqueira Refugio.
Trekking information – 1,000m ascent, 11km trek taking approx. 7 hours
Day 4 Alcazaba (3,364m)
Early start from the hut. Toughest day today! – Alcazaba is located far to the north of Mulhacen. Easily to the Alta del Chorrillo then up the south ridge of Mulhacen. At 3100m we traverse eastern slopes to Siete Lagunas, a beautiful, tranquil spot consisting of 7 lakes in a dramatic mountain setting. Water available here. We climb to the valley head and take a steep scree gully between impossible looking cliffs. In reality it is just a steep walk and there is very little simple scrambling involved. We arrive at the summit plateau and hence to the summit of Alcazaba (The Fortress). We return down the SE flank and through a small pass to Siete Lagunas for onward decent to Trevelez. Our waiting transport takes us back through the Alpujarras to the hotel in Lanjaron.
Trekking information – 1,100m ascent, 21km trek taking approx. 10 hours
Day 5
Transfer back to Malaga Airport
Whats Included?
- All transfers and transport as stated in itinerary
- Accommodation – 2 nights in hotel (3*), twin share, and 2 nights in mountain refuge (dormitory style rooms)
- Meals – breakfast, lunch and dinner – starting from dinner day 1 through to breakfast day 5
- Professional, English speaking local trekking guides
- Spanish Highs guides and leaders
- Comprehensive Medical kit for group
Whats NOT Included?
- Flights, Airport Taxes and Fuel Surcharge
- Personal Travel Insurance
- Drinks with meals and alcoholic drinks
What will it cost?
- Groups between 5 and 10 – €472 per person
- Groups between 11 and 26 – €412 per person
- Groups over 27 – €347 per person
Your Questions Answered
Is this trip for me?
ABSOLUTELY!! This trek is suitable for people of all ages (minimum 18 years old). The one thing everyone will have in common is a sense of adventure and the desire to help their local Charity. Most people will sign up as individuals meaning you will all be in the same situation!
How fit do I need to be?
This trek has been designed to be challenging, but achievable by anyone as long as you train and prepare accordingly. Remember, you are trekking for three consecutive days and in hot temperatures – the fitter you are the more you will enjoy this Challenge.
Where will we stay?
The first and last night we will stay in a 3 star Hotel; twin share with en-suite washing facilities. Whilst on trek, we will be staying in a mountain refuge, dormitory style rooms with food and vino a plenty! Participants are expected to bring their own sleeping bags.
Do I need specialist kit?
We will supply you with a suggested kit list of what to take once you register to take part. Apart from some broken in trekking boots and sleeping bag, and maybe some trekking poles, you do not need any specialist kit.
What happens if I get tired?
There will be regular rest stops where we can drink and eat some snacks – there is no problem if you need to take more rest stops. A guide will be bringing up the rear of the group ensuring no-one is left alone – remember though, this is not a race!
Do I have to carry my own luggage?
You will need to carry your overnight clothing for 2 nights up to the refuge – remember to pack light! We’ll send you a kit list of what to take with you once you register for the challenge. You will wear your trekking clothes each day so items required to take with you to the refuge will be minimal.
Food matters – what’s provided?
All meals will be provided whilst we are trekking. You will need to budget for meals whilst in Lanjaron. We can cater for all dietary requirements so long as we know in advance. Please tell us in advance if you are vegetarian or need a special diet.
Can I stay in Spain after the Challenge?
All extensions are strictly limited, subject to availability and are given on a first come first served basis. Those wanting to request an extension should contact Spanish Highs as soon as possible.
What sort of back-up is there?
There will be a strong support Team with a professional Spanish Highs Challenges Leaders. Full, comprehensive medical kits will be taken and satellite communicators.