Spring Flowers of Western Andalucia

Tour Code: ESP14

An 8-day holiday of gentle walks and botanising in the mountains of western Andalucia.

8 days from
£1,995

Land only price from
£1,795

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Highlights

Our base for this 8-day botanical holiday is a peaceful country hotel, surrounded by nature and far away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. It is a green, sustainable and very comfortable base, offering a relaxed atmosphere to the benefit of our small groups. Timed to coincide with the peak of the early spring flowers, we will make daily excursions to explore the wide variety of habitats in the Natural Park of Sierra de Grazelema (within which the hotel is located), the Sierra de Pinar and, a little to the south-east, the Sierra de las Nieves. Join us for some early season sunshine and the study of a very special flora amidst stunning scenery.

Orchids, daffodils & irises with Griffon Vultures & Golden Eagles soaring overhead
Magical white-washed mountain villages nestling among the rugged peaks of the sierras
A serene setting & warm welcome assured in this quiet corner of Spain

Andalucía lies at one of the world’s great crossroads, where Europe meets Africa and the Mediterranean joins the Atlantic. Here, across the Strait of Gibraltar, a constant ebb and flow of species has occurred over the Ice Ages to endow Andalucía with a great diversity of flora, fauna and human culture. Today, over 2,300 vascular plant species representing 140 families are found here, of which one third are endemic to the region. Egyptian Mongoose, Genet and several butterfly species, all with essentially African distributions, also occur. Further, the climate of Andalucía during the late Ice Age, being milder than in areas to the north, permitted the development of early human populations in the region. Indeed today many traces of their presence remain, notably in some impressive cave paintings. A succession of civilisations then followed. The Phoenicians and Greeks set up trading colonies and were followed by the Carthaginians, Romans and eventually the Moors, who brought with them high civilisation and Islam, and left behind a rich architectural legacy.

Andalucía is further blessed by a fascinating diversity of geology, landscape and climate, from the gentle sun-drenched sandstone hills above the narrow coastal plain to the dramatic, jagged limestone peaks of the Serrania de Ronda. Deep river valleys and spectacular gorges dissect the area and, scattered about them are characteristic Andalucian villages, the dazzling whitewashed walls of all their houses and the Arab design of their narrow winding streets reflecting the long Muslim domination of the area. Best of all for the botanist, the landscape is surprisingly green in this well-watered part of southern Spain and little influenced by modern farming practices.

We begin our tour with a flight to Málaga. We then drive north, through orange groves and vineyards, before climbing onto the scenic ridge-top route towards Ronda, with its constantly unfolding views of mountains and wooded valleys. Our base for the week is a beautiful traditional farmhouse, lovingly converted to provide comfortable accommodation and a relaxed atmosphere for the exclusive benefit of small groups. Situated just north-east of Ronda, it is set amongst its own vineyards and olive groves, and provides a perfect base for our week-long exploration of the area.

We have timed our holiday to coincide with the peak of the early spring flowers and will make daily excursions to explore the wide variety of the region’s habitats in search of their special plants and birds.

Close to Ronda lies Grazalema, arguably the most perfect of the Pueblos Blancos (white mountain villages), where Hemingway wrote part of ‘For Whom the Bell Tolls’ and Oleg Polunin based himself whilst writing ‘Flowers of South-west Europe’. The Natural Park of Sierra de Grazelama is one of Andalucía’s foremost protected areas, and was declared a ‘Biosphere Reserve’ by UNESCO in 1977. The largest stand of the rare Spanish Fir (Abies pinsapo) occurs here, on the high limestone ridge of the Sierra del Pinar, whilst the grasslands, rocks and screes support a diversity of orchids and local populations of daffodils, Narcissus spp. Shaded rocks and cliffs are home to several saxifrages, the spectacular endemic crucifer, Biscutella frutescens, and the endemic Centaurea clementei. On other excursions, we will travel through the largest woodlands of Cork Oak (Quercus suber) in Europe, watch Griffon Vultures soaring overhead, and visit the Cueva de la Pileta with its stunning stalactites, stalagmites and perplexing Palaeolithic paintings, leaving time to visit Ronda, in its spectacular cliff-top setting, high above its famous gorge.

The Sierra de las Nieves, a little way to the south, offer a complete contrast. Here, the maquis-covered lower slopes rise to open woodland, where Paeonia broteroi and Paeonia coriacea flourish. Higher up, we will walk amongst the Spanish Firs where, in early spring, the ground is carpeted with the large-flowered Narcissus hispanicus. Spanish Ibex range freely over the summits and Golden Eagle, Chough, Alpine Accentor and Crossbill are amongst the breeding birds of the park. From such heights the views over the Strait of Gibraltar and the Rif Mountains in Morocco are quite tremendous.

Further east, in the Baetic Cordillera, the forces of nature have created bizarre landscapes of eroded rocks. Above El Chorro, the Rio Guadalhorce has carved a dramatic defile through the sandstones, and today hosts a complex of hydroelectric dams. Around these the dense oak woodland and deep valleys provide a mosaic of habitats full of both plants and birds.

Our final highlight of the holiday will be a visit to El Torcal de Antequera which represents a dramatically eroded karst rising to over 1,300 metres. The fluted spires and bastions of gleaming white limestone that rise from the bright green turf form a surreal landscape and are home to such exciting endemic species as the pale blue toadflax, Linaria antequera, and the deep blue bearded iris, Iris subbiflora.

DETAILED INFORMATION

Itinerary

Outline Itinerary

Day 1

Fly to Malaga and transfer to hotel

Day 2/7

Driving and walking excursions in search of plants and other natural history

Day 8

Fly London

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What's Included

What's Included?

Flights
Accommodation:
A charming, family-run converted farmhouse, all rooms with private facilities.
Food:
All food included in the price.

Reviews

We spent 7 days exploring the flora in the mountainous region of Southern Spain. We were taken to different areas every day by our group leader and found so many beautiful and often rare wild flowers, including orchids and tiny daffodils, sometimes just being left to grow by the side of the road. Despite the rain it was a joy for me to get up each day wondering what treasures we would see that day. We were a small group which helped us get on well but it was our group leader whose infectious love and vast knowledge of botany in particular but the natural world in general made the holiday very special. Having never been on a group holiday before I was a bit nervous but even before I went the tour manager set my mind at rest about some concerns I had. The fact that everything was organised for me was brilliant and it was clear Naturetrek had spent years of research in the area finding places where the rare wild flowers still proliferate. Our group leader was incredible - so happy to impart her vast knowledge not only about botany but geology and other aspects of the natural world. She was our chauffeuse and organised our meals too.
C.F., Nottinghamshire, Mar 25
This holiday in Western Andalucia, Spain, had it all - the main focus was botany and we saw some beautiful wild orchids, Narcissi and other flowers despite the warm, dry conditions. There was plenty of other wildlife to be enjoy too, from elegant Greater Flamingos to jewel-like Spanish Festoon butterflies. We stayed near the astonishing fortress-like medieval city of Ronda and were able to explore its many historic delights via the steep cobbled streets and cliff-top vantage points for which the town is justly famous. The holiday was an all-round feast of natural history and culture which will live long in the memory. Naturetrek delivered the goods as always. A fantastic expert guide, friendly group of fellow travellers, accommodation at a delightful country hotel, well-planned excursions to beautiful and wildlife-rich habitats, delicious picnic lunches and evening meals at local restaurants.
D.B. Avon, Mar 23
One week spent looking at wild flowers in the mountains of Andalucia while keeping our eyes open for birds, butterflies, mammals and reptiles. We passed through white mountain top villages stopping at reserves, embalses and on occasion roadside verges. In the evening we returned to the hotel for a debrief and then sampled Pablo's fabulous food. There was something for every interest and every level of prior knowledge thanks to two impossibly knowledgeable but humble hosts. While it was not primarily an instructional holiday you could not help learning lots about the flora and fauna of Andalucia - in my case starting from a low baseline.
P.G. Tyne & Wear, Mar 19

It was good to visit local eating places to get a taste of Spain and Spanish life. The last two nights we ate at the finca, which was a great, relaxing way to end the week. Sophie was excellent, and a good driver, staying calm even when coaches were bearing down on us on tiny mountain roads - 10 out of 10! And, as promised, we got to see Ibex!
C.P. Jersey

A really excellent trip and though the weather was not perfect this hardly spoiled the enjoyment at all. We cannot praise him [David Tattersfield] enough for his energy and ability to turn what might have been a slightly dismal (in weather terms only) scene into a really memorable holiday.
G.C. Bedfordshire

David T. was all a tour leader should be - knowledgeable, courteous, helpful, patient, considerate to all our whims and fancies, and a pleasure to be with. Although we didn't keep exactly to the daily programme, it was always to our advantage.
M.G. South Yorkshire

I’m glad I went and am very grateful to David and Sophie for their patience. Sophie was delightful (make her a permanency!) - a lovely personality, genuinely charming and unobtrusively observant as to when help might be needed. The very early flight did prove an advantage as we had a good long afternoon to explore. The finca was delightful - attractively furnished, comfortable, and with an excellent selection of books, CDs and DVDs. Each day had its own focus of interest and the general itinerary was varied in pace and botanical offerings. The fine weather was a blessing. I would love to travel with Naturetrek again. I love the format, love the exploration, and love the discovery of treasures in their true habitat.
S.R. Dorset

Every aspect of this holiday was very well organized so we could just get on with having a great time appreciating the beauty of Andulacia and the Spring Flowers. Our Tour Leader, Paul Harmes, had just right blend of special botanic knowledge and humour so he was great fun to be with, and the salads he provided for the picnic lunch each day were superb! We really liked staying in the rural Finca la Guzmana run by Peter, who was very welcoming, a great host and a fabulous cook.
B.K. Cornwall

Paul coped with all our queries and was an excellent driver and guide. Accommodation was comfortable and food superb. An ideal informal base for our small group.
J.A. Surrey

The meals provided by the owner for the Naturetrek party were nothing short of inspired! I would go back just for the food! Having travelled with Paul Harmes previously we were not disappointed by his endless patience, encyclopaedic knowledge, good humour and organisational abilities – plus he has a great hat!
J.W. Cumbria

Paul was a super leader – he took great trouble to ensure we all had a chance to view the rarer plants and birds when located. The picnics were excellent, living up to the expected high standards!!
P.W. Cumbria

Paul did a great job. Excellent on botany, birds etc but also took good care of his party in a friendly sociable way.
V.P. Lanarkshire

Accomodation: ...absolutely first rate in terms of comfort and facilities. Particular pleasures were the excellent meals reflecting accomplished cooking of locally sourced ingredients - and the very high standard of room cleaning and servicing. General content/interest of trip: We came away feeling that we had been given a comprehensive picture of the natural history of the area, alongside a number of insights into the human and social history too - the visit to see the Cueva de la Pileta Palaeolithic wall paintings was well worthwhile. Trip Leader: Paul's (Harmes) botanical knowledge is outstanding, impressive in both scale and depth...All of this learning and skill he shared with genuine enthusiasm and great good humour throughout the trip, always happy to answer questions, however often repeated. We also noticed the lengths to which he went to accommodate the particular interests and abilities of each member of our small but diverse group, taking care to ensure that each was engaged and involved. Paul's ability to combine deep learning with lightness of touch backed by quietly efficient organisation made the trip an enjoyable and very rewarding experience.
Mr & Mrs P. Surrey

We thoroughly recommend the trip, guide and accommodation. A huge thank you to Paul Harmes and the staff at Naturetrek.
D.H. Suffolk

As usual, Paul (Harmes) went out of his way to make sure everyone felt included, whatever their level of expertise, not always easy in a small group. Peter, our host at the finca, was also exceptionally friendly and obliging - and an excellent cook, even producing special dishes for a lone vegetarian.
C.H-D. Dorset

Paul Harmes is an excellent leader. He is a superb driver and has in-depth knowledge of all aspects of natural history. He nurtures each member of the group, bringing out their special qualities and is always good-humoured. I have travelled with him before and would wish to do so again.
A.W. Devon

It was lovely to have Paul as a trip leader again. He is a joy to be with. The picnics were wonderful (as Naturetrek picnics always are!) and Paul's knowledge and enthusiasm made each day enjoyable and different. The food at the finca was amazing, and having the dogs and cats to look after us was a bonus.
Mr & Mrs W. Surrey

A really excellent trip and though the weather was not perfect this hardly spoiled the enjoyment at all. We cannot praise him [David Tattersfield] enough for his energy and ability to turn what might have been a slightly dismal (in weather terms only) scene into a really memorable holiday.
G.C. Bedfordshire

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Dates & Prices

2026

Departures Availability Cost

Fri 13th Mar – Fri 20th Mar FULL £1,995

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£1,795

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£195

Tour Leader:

Please note that, whilst we assign leaders to particular tours well in advance, we reserve the right to make changes if necessary

Lizzie Cooke

Tour Leader: Lizzie Cooke

2027

Departures Availability Cost

Fri 12th Mar – Fri 19th Mar SPACES £1,995

Book Tour Show Details

Flights:

Most Naturetrek tours include flight costs ex-UK. If flights are not included, we indicate that here.

Flights are included in the tour cost

Regional Departures:

On certain tours it is possible to depart from a regional airport (rather than London). If a regional departure is possible, we indicate that here.

Regional Departures are available. Call 01962733051

Land only cost:

The "Land Only" cost is the tour price you will pay if you choose to arrange your own flights/transport.

£1,795

Single Room Supplement:

Single Room Supplement.

£195

Prefer to Travel in a Private Group?

For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.

Enquire

Tour Reports

Tour report - March 2018

Tour report - March 2017

Tour report - March 2016

Tour report - March 2015

Tour report - March 2014

Tour report - March 2013

Tour report - March 2012

Tour report - March 2011

Tour report - March 2010

Tour report - March 2009

Tour report - March 2008

Tour report - March 2007

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