Summer in southern Spain is stunning — but it can also be sizzling. While the beaches near Málaga attract crowds in search of sun and sea, savvy travelers know that the real cool-down happens in the Andalusian mountains. With a car hire from Malaga airport, you can trade the heat for crisp air, pine forests, and tranquil villages high above the coastline.
Whether you're after adventure or just a break from the heat, this is your guide to the best mountain road trips from Malaga. And the best way to begin? Rent a car in Malaga airport from SOLO rent a car, and let the altitude do the rest.
Why head for the hills. Mountains as a natural air conditioner
In the heart of summer, temperatures on the Costa del Sol often rise above 35°C. But just one or two hours inland, in the mountainous regions of Andalusia, you can enjoy daytime highs in the mid-20s — and even cooler nights. Renting a car gives you the freedom to follow the cool, without following the crowds.
With Malaga airport car rental, you can explore these elevated escapes in comfort and style.
Ronda. Dramatic views and cool breezes
The town in the sky
Perched above a deep gorge and surrounded by rolling hills, Ronda is one of Andalusia’s most breathtaking destinations. At 740 meters above sea level, it's a full 7–10°C cooler than Malaga on average during July and August. The drive up the A-397 is as scenic as it gets — hairpin turns, forested slopes, and postcard views.
Pro tip: Hire a car at Malaga airport with good torque. Mountain driving is a pleasure when your car performs well.
El Torcal de Antequera. A prehistoric landscape
Rock formations and cooler trails
El Torcal is an otherworldly natural park filled with bizarre limestone formations and walking trails. Located about an hour from Malaga, it sits at 1,200 meters above sea level — meaning it stays breezy even in mid-summer. Pack a picnic, bring hiking shoes, and don’t forget your camera.
Access is limited without a car, so Malaga airport rent a car services are your best bet for getting there easily.
Sierra de las Nieves. National Park serenity
Forested hills and whitewashed villages
This lesser-known gem lies west of Malaga and offers everything from shaded hiking trails to sleepy mountain towns like Tolox and Yunquera. With elevations above 1,000 meters, Sierra de las Nieves lives up to its name — "Mountains of Snow" — and offers a welcome break from the scorching coastal sun.
The drive is especially rewarding for those who love winding mountain roads and hidden stops along the way.
Grazalema. The greenest (and coolest) place in Spain
High rainfall, lush landscapes, and perfect temperatures
Tucked in the province of Cádiz, the Grazalema Natural Park is famous for its greenery — and its unexpectedly mild climate. Thanks to its altitude and geography, summer temperatures rarely climb past 30°C, and the air feels clean and fresh.
This road trip takes a bit longer (about 2.5 hours), but it's well worth it. You’ll need a reliable vehicle, so be sure to book your Malaga airport car hire with SOLO rent a car in advance.
0