Overview
The natural park Sierra de las Nieves is dominated by Mount Torrecilla. The park is located near Marbella and covers 18,530ha. It is a mountainous area that is pretty much untouched by cultivation, for this reason its flora and fauna is diverse.
Walking
There are several walks within the park, one of which is a challenging walk which takes you up to the summit of Torrecillo.
Sightseeing
The area is home to a significant number of large caves and potholes (simas in Spanish). GESM (Grupo de Exploraciones Subterráneas de Málaga ) is one of the deepest potholes in Europe and has still not been fully explored. Of the caves in the area, there three of particular interest:- Hoyos del Pilar, Hoyos de Lifa, Cuevas del Moro and Los Quejigales - a recreation area. Casa Forestal and an excellent point to start one of the many lengthier walks in the park.
Animals/Birds
The area is home to several species of birds of prey, these include golden, Bonelli’s and booted eagles. The park has a large population of mountain goats (one of the largest in Andalucia. The non-native muflon is found here (ancestor of our domestic sheep) as well as meloncillo which is a kind of mongoose. Other mammals include deer and otters.
Plants
There is a diverse number of plant species. Trees include chestnut, Spanish fir, carob gall oak, cork oak and wild olive trees.
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