Nerja to Pēnoncillo - Mindful Walking Tours - A Weekly Ritual of Presence
Each week, we at Soul and Spirit Spa, dedicate time to a Mindful Walking Tour — a gentle ritual we call a “ME and US” morning. It’s our way of reconnecting with ourselves, each other, and the natural rhythm around us. We step away from noise, notifications, and urgency, and we return to the simple experience of being present.
These walks are not about speed or distance. They are about awareness. As we walk, we focus on how our bodies feel, how our breath moves, and what it feels like to truly arrive in the moment. We don’t rush. We observe. We let go.
We often treat this morning as a time to unwind, reset, and nourish both body and mind. Thoughts naturally arise during our walk. Sometimes they are plans, sometimes worries, sometimes just passing fragments. Rather than getting caught up in them, we practice simply observing. We allow them to drift in and out without attachment.
During our mindful walks, we take time not only to connect with ourselves but also with each other. We walk side by side, listening fully, catching up without rush, and letting conversations flow as naturally as the path beneath our feet. The scenery becomes part of the experience — waves, cliffs, wildflowers, and open skies — all gently holding space for presence and connection. It’s not about numbers, how many we can get into a group, but about energy — how we feel, how we support one another, and the quality of the moments we share. We simply love connecting in this way.
We always find a small, cosy café to rest, enjoy a coffee, or share a relaxed lunch together. It’s a nourishing blend of movement, mindfulness, and meaningful company.
One of the most frequent walks: from the Punta Lara roundabout to Peñoncillo beach. This 7-8km ( back and forth) kilometre walk follows the coastline between Nerja and Torrox, beginning just west of Nerja near the roundabout below Punta Lara, where there is convenient parking.
The route follows the old N-340 road and coastal footpaths, offering uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean. The landscape shifts between cliffs, rocky outcrops, wild palms, and quiet beaches; BUT BE AWARE IT IS A WALK ON A MAIN ROAD, ( there are stretches where you can walk on the beach or sidewalk). The traffic becomes busier later in the day, in the early morning hours its nice and calm, route shared by walkers, cyclist and people fishing. We pass hidden coves and stretches of coastline, where the rhythm of the waves becomes part of our breath.
Halfway along, we discover a small stone turret perched above the sea. At its base lies a delicate shrine to the Virgen del Mar, adorned with flowers, shells, and candles. It’s a place of peace and reflection — a natural point to stop, breathe, take a sip of water and give thanks.
As we continue toward Peñoncillo beach, the sea remains our steady companion. On one side, the coastline opens into wide views; on the other, dry hills stretch into the distance. Eventually, we arrive at a broader beach where the atmosphere becomes more vibrant.
Once at Pēnoncillo beach, the chiringitos and cafes are lined up one after another. In the summer moths they are all open but some close during the winter months, but there is always somewhere we manage to enjoy our morning coffee.
Main notes of the walk: Easy Walk. On the level walking, no hills. Main Road. Toilets/ Restaurants in Pēnoncillo. Always bring a water bottle.
If you would like to join the Soul and Spirit Spa- Wednesday Mindful Walking Group contact: soulandspiritspa@gmail.com
