Durcal is a small town in the Lecrin Valley, about 25km south of Granada. It is best known locally for its gorge walks along the Rio Durcal, particularly the Ruta de los Cahorros del Rio Durcal, which follows the river through a narrow limestone ravine with natural swimming pools, small waterfalls, and sections of an old Nasrid irrigation canal running alongside. The walk takes around 2 to 3 hours for the full circuit and is suitable for most fitness levels.
Durcal works well as a half-day trip from Granada or as a stop on the route south toward the Alpujarras. The Lecrin Valley has a microclimate that feels noticeably warmer and more sheltered than the city, with orange and olive groves on the valley floor and, on clear days, views of Sierra Nevada to the east.
