'Scary' Costa del Sol footpath reopens
Monday, March 30, 2015 @ 12:16 PM
SPAIN'S 'most dangerous' footpath has reopened after having been blocked off to the public for 15 years, following new safety measures being put in place.
Not for the faint-hearted, the Caminito del Rey (literally, 'The Little Footpath of the King') lies between Antequera and Ardales in the province of Málaga, is three kilometres long and barely a metre wide - but with a 100-metre drop between it and the river below.
It runs alongside the Gaitanes mountains, it fell into a state of near-ruin some 16 years ago with most of the handrail - the only element between walkers on the narrow route and the massive chasm below - having rotted away.
The deaths of five walkers in separate incidents in 1999 and 2000 led to the footpath being closed off.
Some have still tried to access it via the railway line, but if they are caught they face a fine of up to €6,000.
Work on restoring the Caminito del Rey started last year and, following an investment to the tune of €6 million, is now said to be 'completely safe' - although still not recommended for anyone who is scared of heights.
Read more at thinkSPAIN.com