Andalucia has many extensive and ecologically important areas of marshes and wetlands, which attract thousands of birds. Since Andalucia is located at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, these places are also crucial for migrating birds to stop off and feed on their long journeys, and as breeding sites.
Dehesa is a unique ecosystem made up of mixed grassy pastureland and woodland of evergreen oak trees.
Andalucía is one of the most mountainous regions in Spain, although many visitors to the Costa del Sol may not realise this fact.
Their willowy, wispy branches and strong trunks grace hillsides and craggy cliffside areas, while the pink and white colours of their blossom, from late January to mid-February, cover the countryside in a soft blanket. Hills of almond blossom offer an unforgettable sight - well worth seeing if you ever have the opportunity.
On this page you will find a Glossary of geographical terms from Aldea, a small village or hamlet to landmarks such as a venta a country or roadside Inn.
Salt marshes are a natural source of sea salt. The marshes flood on a high tide and then a series of earth bund walls and sluice gates regulate the level of the seawater. As the water evaporates under the hot sun, the salt is left behind; it is then collected and stored, and the process is repeated. The main locations for this are Cabo del Gata (whose sea salt is highly prized in cooking) and the Marismas de Odiel in Huelva.
Andalucia´s principal mountain range, the Cordillera Bética, comprises two parts: the Sistema Subbético to the north and the Sistema Penibético to the south and accounts for much of Andalucia´s most dramatic and rugged landscape.
Gibraltar is a place of remarkable geographic importance due its location at the mouth of the Mediterranean and its exceptional natural heritage. Despite its small land area, Gibraltar supports an extensive range of terrestrial and marine species including rare plants and animals.
Perhaps the most famous residents of Gibraltar are the Barbary macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe. These intelligent primates roam freely on the Upper Rock, especially around the Apes’ Den and the Great Siege Tunnels.
Exploring Gibraltar’s natural treasures is easy thanks to the variety of guided tours of the Rock available. Local guides offer half-day and full-day excursions that include visits to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, the Apes’ Den, St. Michael’s Cave, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking two continents.
Gibraltar lies on one of the world’s great migratory routes, serving as a vital stopover for birds crossing between Europe and Africa. Each spring and autumn, thousands of raptors, swallows, and songbirds fill the skies.
The beautiful Alameda Gardens were first opened in 1816. Around the gardens are a number of commemorative busts and cannons dating from the 19th century. Chief attraction are the splendid plants and trees some of which are native to the Rock whilst others have been imported. The Gardens are open from 0800 to dusk daily. Admission is free.
The Rio Guadalquivir lies just to the south of the Sierra Morena, and runs from the Sierra de Cazorla in Jaen, on the eastern side of Andalucia, to the town of Sanlucar de Barrameda, on the coast of Cadiz province.
