Making the day more enjoyable

From mid-May to the end of September, it becomes too hot for an enjoyable day of walking, so you'll notice that my holidays are outside those months.

And because you'll be walking in one of the best climates in Europe (it's not me saying that; a quick Google search will bring up Torrox, in La Axarquía, as having the best year-round climate), you'll find that even during winter, we can still experience temperatures in the late teens.

And don't be surprised to find that the midday sun's temperature can be in the late 20s in late autumn and early spring.

When you're travelling from a cooler climate, you may not have time to adjust, so these tips can make walking in the heat more enjoyable.

Hydration

This is the big one. It's essential to do this during the walk and before we start. On the drive to the walk, we make time to stop in a cafe bar and run through the day's activities. This is an opportunity to enjoy a delicious coffee and cake or toasted roll, and at the same time, you can grab a 500 ml bottle of water to drink as well.

If we aren't stopping along the way, the minibus will have a coolbox full of chilled water and fruit juices, so grab one before we set off and enjoy it during the journey.

How much you drink during the walk will depend on the heat, distance, and amount of ascent. A litre is often sufficient, although a day spent walking around the Tajos de Gomer in the mid-20s, and you could easily double that.

An efficient system for carrying water is also essential. I'm a big fan of hydration systems, as the ability to sip liquids as you go is invaluable. Using a 1.5-litre Camelbak and carrying a 500 ml water bottle filled with fruit juice gives me options during the walk. 

I also carry a few extra bottles if you are caught short of water during the walk.

When we return to the minibus at the end of the walk, you can grab another bottle of water or fruit juice from the cool box.

The evening before each walk, I'll check the weather forecast, and along with a general outline of what to expect, I will let everyone know if extra water should be carried.

Nutrition

Walking requires extra energy, and walking in the sun and heat requires even more. So don't skimp on making your packed lunch for the day, and try to include some fruit. Include a chocolate bar or a packet of sweets to enjoy during the day and help keep your blood sugar levels normal.

Along with the energy you'll need for the day, you will also have to consider replacing those nutrients lost through sweating. A mixed bag of dried fruit and nuts is perfect for keeping in your pocket, allowing you to graze on during the day.

If you are concerned that your luggage won't have space to carry all these savoury snacks and chocolate bars, don't worry. I always provide everyone with a bag of goodies upon arrival. We can stop in a supermarket on your first day if you want something specific.

Clothing

You already have a collection of clothing for your UK walking, so when packing, try to choose light-coloured items and those that are loose-fitting. Dark colours are not ideal, as they warm very quickly. If you're fair-skinned, consider long-sleeved tops and a hat, which is a great idea and essential if you're follically challenged.

Sunglasses are a must, as a day of squinting your way along the trail can surely be no fun at all.

 

 

Pace yourself

None of my walks are meant to be done at speed; it's often the opposite: stopping to take a photo, looking at a flower, admiring the view, or grabbing a tapa from a bar we pass along the way. When we're on the trail, particularly if it's a long ascent, it's much better to take a relaxed pace, stopping often to catch a breath and giving the legs a chance to recover. If you can't talk because you're breathing too hard, you're definitely going too fast. 

Fitness

Improving your fitness level has many benefits, including helping your body when it is working harder to keep you cool. If you have time in the months before you arrive, consider taking longer walks than normal or including some steeper ascents. 

Sunscreen

One of the reasons for a walking holiday in Andalucía is to get a tan and top up those vitamin D levels, so sunscreen is a great way to do this without getting burnt on your first day. Even in winter, it's best not to underestimate the sun's strength, as getting that gambas look is very easy.