Get into the laid-back Spanish vibe and spend the first night of your trip in Malaga. If your arrival time allows, recharge your batteries at the city beach, explore the Roman theater, or climb up to the ancient fortress to see Malaga from above.

Head back to Málaga airport and pick up your rental car. Then, it's time for the drive to the Alpujarra region, which will take you about an hour and a half. About halfway there, you'll start climbing, and you can begin enjoying the first views of the valley and the mountain peaks. Once you arrive in the town of Lanjarón, you'll realize you've just passed through the gateway to the magical Alpujarra region. Lanjarón offers several points of interest, such as castle ruins or thermal baths, so if you have the time, you can stop there for a bit.

It's time to discover more hidden gems in this magical corner of Spain. Drive 10 kilometers up the winding roads from Órgiva to a village where there is truly no shortage of magic. Soportújar tries to attract tourists with its theme of witches and fairy tales, making it a clear stop if you have kids. But even if you don't, it's also the perfect starting point for several hikes into nature. 

After a more physically demanding day, choose a more relaxing program with a trip to the village of Pampaneira, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the Alpujarra, something I can definitely confirm myself.

Don't feel quite rested enough after the last few days? Then today's program will definitely get you into a state of deep calm, perhaps even zen. You have a climb ahead of you to the O Sel Ling meditation retreat, which was founded here back in the 80s, visited by the Dalai Lama himself, and is known by the locals as "Little Tibet".

After a busy day, you need to recharge your batteries. You shouldn't leave Órgiva before visiting its regular markets. You can restock your supplies before the trip home, pick up a souvenir, or just try some local specialty. Afterwards, it would be a shame to miss a visit to the village of Cañar, nicknamed the "Balcony of the Alpujarra". And finally, just relax. In the summer months, for example, you can cool off in the municipal pool.

Since you have a long drive back to Malaga ahead of you, it's better not to plan any major activities. On the way down from the heights, you'll surely realize that this corner of Spain has stolen your heart and that you haven't seen it for the last time.