The fir trees of Andalusia: Abies pinsapo
- Only three forests in the world
- Cold zone species present in Andalusia
- In danger of extinction
Ronda / Grazalema /Estepona
Winter / Spring / Fall
Half day of observation
Private groups
The pinsapares, unique in the world
The pinsapos belong to the botanical genus of the firs, with about 50 species distributed in the cold zones of the northern hemisphere. However, isolated populations of seven Abies survive in the humid mountain ranges of Turkey, Caucasus, Greece, Balkans, Sicily and Maghreb. Abies pinsapo is the only Mediterranean fir present in the Iberian Peninsula, and therefore a botanical treasure, threatened and on the verge of disappearing several times.
Abetos mediterráneos
The pinsapos begin to flower when they reach the age of 25-35 years. They are neighboring, usually flowering in alternate years. Flowering occurs in spring, when the flower buds awaken from their winter dormancy. Pine cones ripen in early September with cones pointing skyward.
Spanish firs in Sierra Bermeja
Unique Spanish fir forest on peridotite rocks (not limestone), located in Los Reales (Estepona), culminating at 1 452 meters only 8 km from the coast. It covers a small area often covered by a cap of fogs brought by the Atlantic humidity of the Strait. This pinsapar has escaped the huge forest fire of 2021 with 15 000 ha burned in Sierra Bermeja.
Pinsapar Sierra de Las Nieves
Also known as Pinsapar de Parauta, in the Serranía de Ronda. A beautiful route with good slope allows you to discover this diverse and exceptional forest ecosystem. It is home to the natural monument of the Pinsapo de las Escaleretas, a specimen with an estimated age of 350-550 years.
Sierra de Grazalema
Third and last pinsapar, one of the most endangered plant formations in Spain. In Grazalema, it is confined to the north face of the Sierra del Pinar. An important reforestation program has made it possible to reach a current surface of about 500 hectares. Restricted access trail that requires an authorization.
Private Tour Pinsapos: the endemic forest
Tour variants and options
The best route to discover the pinsapos will depend on the overnight stay and the physical condition of the participants, being the pinsapar of Sierra Bermeja the only one accessible by forest track.
The “plus”. The pinsapares are located in the cooler areas of southern Andalusia, very pleasant to walk in the spring.
Includes
- Specialized professional guide
- High-end telescopes
- High-end binoculars
- List of potential species
- Door-to-door passenger pickup/destination
- Accident insurance
