The nature guide to the Andalusian Sierras

The Alcornocales, Grazalema and Sierra de las Nieves are superb nature parks in the Mountains of western Andalusia. Not far away from some of the classic beach resorts of the Costa del Sol, they boost an unexpected natural wealth. Western winds provide the Mediterranean landscape with enough rain to create green valleys with murmuring creeks and dense, evergreen forests. The upper regions are barren and rocky with dramatic cliffs and deep caves. These mountain slopes host a flora that ranks among the richest of entire Europe. It is also the land of the Iberian ibex, the griffon vulture and a twice-a-year tidal wave of migratory birds flying back and forth between Europe and Africa. Numerous mountains trails depart from picturesque towns and villages. They will lead you through vast forests, desert-like rock slopes, dramatic canyons and flowery orchards. With this guidebook, you can explore these routes and enjoy the nature of the Western Andalusian Sierras to the fullest. This nature guide is part of a new series of innovative guides for nature enthusiasts. The Crossbill Guides combine interesting and insightful accounts with up-to-date and practical tourist information and observation tips. Detailed descriptions of hiking trails and car routes are conveniently linked to information on everything you want to know about the whats, wheres and whys of the splendid nature of the Sierras of western Andalusia.