“The valley of the river Genal is a real gem. It passes through three distinct zones – from the barren treeless karst of the upper valley below the peak of Jarestepar (1427m), through the chestnut plantations around the villages of the upper Genal (stunning around November, when in autumnal colours) to the oak forests of the lower Genal. The real attraction, however, is the white villages – fifteen of them dotted prominently on both sides of the deep river valley . There are a network of pathways connecting these which make for great walking in stunning landscapes – usually easy underfoot , but with some savage ascents, particularly if crossing the river between villages! Every village has its charm and attraction, but if one has to single out a few they would be Alpandeire, Parauta and Igualeja (where the source of the river is to be found) in the upper Genal valley and Benalauria, Jubrique and Genalgaucil (a village loved by artists, with sculptures on every street corner), in the lower valley.”

Extract from River Walks, Walk Andalucia.com

Also check out the Benaraba to Genalguacil walk which crosses both the Rio Genal & Rio Almarchal, directly passing Cloud House Farm.

Genalguacil is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular villages in La Serrania de Ronda.

Just 20 mins drive away, Cloud House Farm enjoys spectacular views of the village through the different seasons.

The name Genalguacil derives from Genna-Alwacir, meaning Gardens of the Visir, a must visit for any guests at Cloud House.

The village has a bank, church, mini markets, bars & restaurants, of which El Visir owned by our friend Miguel offers some of the most inventive take on traditional Andalucian cuisine, with a choice of locally sourced vegetarian dishes through to wild venison, wild boar, duck and daily fresh seafood. If his food doesn’t wet your appetite, a generous measures of Hendricks Gin certainly will.

There is also a bank, chemist and a limited postal service. A 24hr medical centre is close by in the village of Algatocin.

Genalguacil can easily be reached either from Ronda (45kms) or Estepona (37kms) on the Costa Del Sol, with Malaga airport just 2hrs away.

20 mins Drive from Cloud House Farm

20min Walk From Cloud House Farm - Roman Ruin Bridge River Pool

The Genal valley is literally bursting with some of the most spectacular river pools to be found in Andalucia.

This is the undiscovered eden of Spain, the fact that the Genal Valley is a hot favourite for Spanish tourists down from Madrid is no accident.

Secret hidden riverpools can be discovered while River Walking through the Rio Genal & Rio Almarchal, the latter of which boarders Cloud House Farm on its north side with pools as close as 10 minutes walk away!

These hidden gems can offer total seclusion, and a fabulous opportunity to encounter nature first hand.

Check out our Cloud Adventure page for more information, or alternatively visit Walk Andalucia for river routes.