Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema

The Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema is located between the provinces of Cadiz and Malaga. The parque was declared a Unesco Biosphere Reserve in 1977.

As one of Spain's most spectacular kastic areas, the area is marked by deep gorges, mountains and stunning forests. But it is what lies beneath the surface what makes this area so special. With a vast complex of underground rivers, cavities and galleries, it is here where you find some of Spain's largest cave systems. With all these caves, it is here that you find one of the largest colonies of bats in Europe.

We started our trip into the parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema from Zahara de la Sierra following the CA-9104. This road zigzags its way higher and higher into the natural park.
Along the road is a stunning viewpoint called "Mirador Puerto de los Acebuches" that provides you with stunning views towards Embaise de Zahara el Gastor.

The area is rich in flora and fauna. From Mediterranean firs to oak forests, the area is rich in flora with almost 1300 species being found in the area. Some are exclusive to the area, like the poppy of Grazalema and some Geraniums.
As to the fauna, you can spot mountain goats, otters, marten, badgers,... 

Griffon vultures, Egyptian vultures and eagles soar high in the sky looking for their next prey.

The lively town of Grazalema is located within the park, and the village its steep cobbled streets are immaculate. The whitewashed houses are beautifully decorated with flowers and wrought-iron rejas while the many restaurants and bars have inviting outdoor seating areas.

The town is the highest and most mountainous one in the province of Cadiz, but also the rainiest one. On the day when we visited , the weather was stunning.