At Annual Hiking Festival Over 2,500 Walkers Explore Marbella’s Scenic Countryside
By Mas Property
on Wed Oct 23 2024
The 13th edition of Marbella 4 Days Walking (M4DW), a popular hiking event that attracts participants from around the world, concluded earlier this month with over 2,500 walkers from 17 countries exploring the stunning natural landscapes of Marbella. The event, held from 5 to 8 October, offered a mix of scenic routes and challenging trails, making it a key attraction for both outdoor enthusiasts and tourists.
What began in 2011 as a small gathering of friends passionate about hiking has evolved into an international event, celebrating community spirit and the beauty of Marbella’s surroundings. This year, the event introduced two new Challenge Routes, adding a more demanding option for seasoned hikers. The Marbella 2-Days Challenge, held on 5 and 6 October, took participants on a journey from Plaza del Mar to Ojén, traversing rugged mountains and picturesque valleys.
Event director Arabella M. Wessels noted that the introduction of the Challenge Routes was a significant enhancement for experienced hikers. «Alongside the incredible trails, our event gives visitors the chance to experience Marbella’s gastronomy, leisure, and cultural offerings,» Wessels said, emphasizing the festival’s growing importance for local tourism.
The four-day festival featured 12 different routes, each with a unique theme. Walkers enjoyed the first day along the beach (Beach Day), the second immersed in nature (Green Day), the third offering panoramic views (View Day), and the final day exploring lakeside paths (Lake Day). Participants had the option to cover distances of 10, 20, or 30 kilometers through Marbella’s diverse landscapes.
The majority of this year’s walkers hailed from Western Europe, including the Netherlands, Ireland, Scandinavia, Germany, and Belgium. Registrations for next year’s event, which will take place from 2 to 5 October 2025, will open on 1 January 2025, with the traditional White Party kicking things off on 1 October.
Source: Sur In English, October 2024