Inland Lifestyle

Top 5 Natural wonders of Andalucia

Andalucia is a real treasure of nature with many different types of landscapes which make the region unique in Spain.

1. EL TORCAL ANTEQUERA (MÁLAGA)

One of the top natural wonders of Andalucia is El Torcal, located in Antequera. The limestone rocks have been modelling themselves over the years and adapting curious shapes. Its seabed origin has many invaluable prehistoric fossils. The most famous mushroom-shaped rock -The Screw-, creates a remarkable view.

This amazing place is a must see and also is a big favourite for hikers with it’s 17 square km providing some of the most beautiful landscapes in all of Europe.

2. SIERRA DE CAZORLA, SEGURA AND LAS VILLAS (JAÉN)

Located in the province of Jaen is the Sierra de Cazorla and is one of the most visited in Spain. Its natural wealth is based on biodiversity and is considered a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

Its fauna is rich and varied as well as important populations of bighorn sheep and fallow deer. Sierra de Cazorla is an ideal location if you’re looking to relax with your family in the nature.

The River Guadalquivir passes through a wide, deep valley, while its tributaries carve out surprisingly steep ravines, such as Elias along El Borosa, and spectacular waterfalls – Linarejos-. Water has also created fabulous caves, such La Cueva del Agua in Tiscar.

3. CAMINITO DEL REY AND DESFILADERO DE LOS GAITANES (MÁLAGA)

In the natural setting of El Chorro in the province of Malaga is the Caminito del Rey, immersed in Desfiladero de los Gaitanes.

The Gorge Desfiladero de los Gaitanes is a natural beauty spot, placed in the centre of the province, between the towns of Alora, Antequera and Ardales. This is one of the most beautiful spots of the Malaga Mountains. Between its steep and considerably high walls, the River Guadalhorce flows, after having passed through the reservoirs El Chorro.

Camino del Rey is a 3 km long and one-metre wide pass hanging up to 100 metres above the river, in the almost vertical walls of the cliff. A complete and utter defiance of vertigo in a huge limestone gorge that stands on the Guadalhorce river and which gives an eagle-eyed view to those who dare to approach.

4.  SIERRA NORTE DE SEVILLA NATURAL PARK (SEVILLE)

The central section of the immense Sierra Morena is made up of the extensive and sparsely populated Sierra Norte de Sevilla Natural Park, a landscape of gently rolling hills clad in dense evergreen oaks. It’s similar to the adjacent natural parks of the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche and Hornachuelos, in the provinces of Huelva and Cordoba respectively.

In terms of fauna, deers are the most typical representatives in the area of large herbivorous mammals. These, along with wild boar, form the most popular hunting trophies in the Park.

Among carnivorous mammals, there is evidence of the presence of the lynx, although its population must be very small. Other abundant species while elusive and difficult to see are the fox, civet cat, polecat, badger, mongoose, wild cat and otter.

5. SIERRA DE CASTRIL NATURAL PARK (GRANADA)

Castril is another of the great unknown natural wonders. It is located to the northeast of the province of Granada, being part of the Subbetic. The action of the waters and the limestone nature of the soil have favored its incredible wild relief.

 It has abundant water, with an average rainfall of 700mm on its highest points, while many watercourses drain the area. There are also numerous springs and lots of waterfalls. The park has a total of 14 habitats, which means that it supports a wide variety of flora and fauna. Its altitude rises from 900m to over 2,000m.

It is north of the pretty village of Castril, with its steep streets and huddle of whitewashed houses, overlooked by the spectacular Pena de Castril.