Rail passengers travelling between Sevilla and Malaga will face major disruption from May 22, it has been announced.

Engineering works will begin on that day and last until June 8, forcing the suspension of several Media Distancia services.

State rail operator Renfe has announced a contingency plan involving 384 replacement bus services to keep passengers moving while upgrades are carried out on the line.

The main impact will be felt between Antequera Santa Ana and Malaga, where trains will be replaced entirely by buses, including stops at intermediate stations.

Some services will also be affected just before and after the works. On May 21, two evening trains departing Sevilla at 6.34pm and 8.12pm will require transfers, while on June 9 early services leaving Malaga at 7.02am and 9.16am will also be subject to the same arrangements.

Taxis for smaller stations

For smaller stations such as Bobadilla and El Chorro Caminito del Rey, passengers will be transported by taxi.

Renfe has stressed that passengers must have a valid ticket before travelling. To ease disruption, the operator is offering free changes and refunds as part of its post-sale policy.

Cercanias services also affected

The works will also impact local rail services. The C-2 Cercanias line between Malaga and Alora, as well as services to El Chorro Caminito del Rey, will be partially replaced by road transport between Cartama and Alora over the same period.

Early morning Cercanias services on 9 June will also be affected.

Passengers are advised to check their journey in advance and allow extra time, as travel conditions will differ significantly from normal rail services during the works.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.