Barranco de Castala

The Barranco de Castala is accessed from Berja, driving towards Castala and parking near the stream. The approach takes about an hour, following a path to the left of the torrent, crossing it, and then ascending in zig-zags past Mina Café con Leche and Mina Benito to the canyon bed. The descent features 11 rappels, with the longest being 21 meters. The first rappel is 40m, followed by a 5m drop and a 10m rappel with somewhat over-equipped anchors. Subsequent rappels include a 15m, a 17m (or 15m alternative), a short 4m downclimb, an 8m rappel with a cable handrail to a high anchor, and an 11m rappel. Anchors are generally well-equipped with parabolts and rings, some with anti-friction devices. The return walk is very short, taking only 5 minutes. The canyon is rated v4-a1-II, suggesting a technical vertical descent with low water flow and moderate commitment. Two 40m ropes are needed.