NATURE

The spectacular Tejedas form part of the 41,000 hectare Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park, which stretches through the provinces of Malaga and Granada and is mainly composed of limestone-dolomite marbles displaying a topography of ridges, ravines and high peaks. The higher mountains have coverings of Yew, Hawthorn and Cedars, befitting the upper Mediterranean climate. Between 1,000 and 1,700 metres in height there are hard-leafed forests of different types of Oak with interspersed plantations of Roderno and Pines. At less than 1,000 metres there are large areas of Carrasco Pine with a sweet-smelling underbrush of Juniper, Thyme, Rosemary, Sage and Lavender.

The area has a large number of endemic botanical species and is rich in wildlife, particularly raptors and mountain birds. Regularly seen are the endangered species of Spanish Ibex, true wild goats, for which the area was declared a National Big Game Reserve. Golden and Bonnelli's Eagles are permanent residents whilst Short-Toed and Booted Eagles can be seen during migration periods. Other birds include Falcons, Hawks, Woodpeckers, Bee Eaters, Crag Martins, Rock Buntings, Rock and Blue Rock Thrushes, Alpine Accentors, Golden Orioles, Nightingales, Grey Wagtails and Dippers.

A trip to the coast can augment your visit with sightings of Dolphins, Sunfish and Flying fish.

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