The flora of the Sierra Nevada
Sitting astride the provinces of Granada and Almería, there are fifteen peaks almost perpetually covered in snow, a region that is home to one of the greatest natural treasures in Spain. Sierra Nevada has five bioclimatic levels in such a small space and this has generated a floral wealth that is unmatched anywhere else in mainland Spain.
The geographical location, different altitudes and changing weather conditions have enabled it to become a lush botanical garden with species typical of the Mediterranean and others more typical of areas located in Africa and Central Europe. And it is estimated that the Sierra Nevada flora is made up of more than 2,100 different species, of which 66 are exclusive and endemic to the region.
All these factors resulted in Sierra Nevada being declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1986.
Rarities like royal chamomile, the Sierra Nevada violet and the Plantago nivalis or "snow star" can only be found among the rocks on this massif. In the high mountain areas there are also plants adapted to the cold and icy winds, such as junipers, creeping junipers, broom brooms and barberries.
Other features to be found at the foot of the Cerro de Trevenque, in the municipal district of Monachil, include the La Cortijuela Botanical Garden, a complex which is a feature of the Andalusian Network and Botanical and Mycological Gardens in Protected Natural Areas.
A visit to the Botanical Garden involves a pleasant two-kilometre walk where you can discover a wealth of plants on show, surrounded by a beautiful forest of holm oaks and wild pines.
The considerably interesting landscape, together with the presence of some 400 different species, make it ideal for organising excursions and walks in the open air. Taking children along provides an excellent opportunity to teach them about the area's incalculable natural and environmental value. La Cortijuela also has signposted trails which begin in the Garden, and lookout points where you can admire the changing orography of the Penibaetic mountain range.
