One of the saddest news stories of the summer of 2021 was, without a doubt, the major wildfire in Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja, in the province of Málaga. More than 9,500 hectares were burned across the municipalities of Estepona, Jubrique, and Genalguacil, mainly. And it sparked a fear that has raised awareness among nature lovers: the risk of causing irreparable damage to the area’s pinsapo forests, of incalculable ecological value.
Fortunately, none of the main pinsapo forests were seriously affected, but we have written this post to raise awareness of the uniqueness of this local species and to show which routes can be taken by anyone interested in getting to know it.
Pinsapo forests, a true treasure of Málaga and Cádiz
The pinsapo (Abies pinsapo) is a true natural treasure of Andalusia. And this is not merely a figure of speech, but a reality: it is a fir species that is only found naturally in a few areas of the provinces of Málaga and Cádiz.
It is a tree that, thousands of years ago, was widespread across Europe from the beginning of the Tertiary period (65 million years ago), but it came close to extinction as a result of the glaciations. In fact, after the last glacial period, which ended some 10,000 years ago, the pinsapo was reduced to its current areas: the Sierra de las Nieves and Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja, in Málaga, and the Sierra de Grazalema, in Cádiz.
Pinsapo forests are woodland areas formed almost exclusively by these firs, although they can also be found scattered in other places. They are distinguished by their great height, which can reach 30 metres, by their downward-sloping branches in several arms like a candelabrum, and by their thick, rigid, pointed leaves. They prefer northern slopes, shaded areas, and higher altitudes, to protect themselves from sunlight and moisture loss.
Which routes can be taken among pinsapos
The main routes through Andalusia’s pinsapo forests coincide with the three areas where these trees are naturally distributed. First, in the Sierra de las Nieves, recently declared a National Park. The proposal starts at Puerto Saucillo and ends at the Los Quejigales Recreation Area, which means a hike of around 9 hours and a high level of difficulty.
Easier is the so-called Pinsapar de Estepona route, in Sierra Bermeja, very close to the area affected by the devastating wildfire of the summer of 2021. It is located at km 2.5 of the Genalguacil Road, with a total distance of 1.5 km (including the outward and return), which takes approximately 1 hour. It is therefore ideal for families with children.
Finally, mention should be made of the routes through the pinsapo forests of the Sierra de Grazalema, in the province of Cádiz. There are different route options, although one of the most popular runs from the place known as Las Canteras or Los Areneros, a couple of kilometres from Grazalema. It is a linear route with a total distance of 10.5 km, which translates into around 4.5 hours.
If you would like to experience first-hand the beauty and magic of the pinsapo forests of Málaga and Cádiz, you may contact Andalucía Exclusiva and we will organise a bespoke active-tourism experience. Without a doubt, the best way to discover this natural treasure of the region.
