Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE for more of my adventures and explorations around the world from the 114 countries I've visited. So far! Follow me on other social media for more updates: Twitter: https://x.com/Graham_dePenros

Welcome to my extreme hiking and sightseeing adventures in remote Andalusia, Spain. Whether you are an avid hiker, a ski fanatic, a history buff or a lover of unique flora and fauna, this region has something to offer everyone.

FOR THE HIKER
For the walker/hiker there are many routes and tracks of varying difficulty, all well signposted. There is an abundance of choice in the mountain ranges and national parks of the Cordillera Bética, Cordillera Bética, Sistema Subbético, Sistema Penibético, Cazorla Natural Park and the Sierra Nevada National Park.

FOR THE SIGHTSEEING, CULTURE AND HISTORY LOVERS
Andalusia is not just about natural beauty; it is also a region steeped in a rich cultural and historical heritage, with a mix of post-La Reconquista Iberian, Phoenician, Carthaginian, Greek, Roman, Visigothic, Moorish and Spanish influences.

CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL TREASURES
One of the most famous sights in Granada, the region and the world is the Alhambra. This beautiful palace and fortress complex epitomizes Moorish architecture. The intricate designs, beautiful gardens and historical significance make it a must-see. I had the honor of having the complex to myself for 48 hours and taking perfect photos without the usual crowds of tourists obscuring the view of the gardens and architecture.

The Mezquita in Córdoba reflects the diversity of historical influences in the region. Originally a mosque, it was converted into a cathedral, blending Islamic and Christian architectural styles in a truly unique way. The Alcazaba and Castel Gibralfaro in Málaga, where the Alcazaba and the adjacent Castel Gibralfaro offer an insight into the Moorish period, with their fortifications offering stunning views over the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

Seville Cathedral and the Giralda are beautiful examples of Gothic architecture, with a bell tower that was originally a minaret. Ronda is known for its dramatic slopes and the Puente Nuevo Bridge over the deep El Tajo Gorge. The Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace with lush gardens showcasing Mudéjar architecture. Úbeda and Baeza are known for their Renaissance buildings and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as are many of the sites I mentioned. The Antequera Fortress, the beauty of Antequera and the ubiquitous medieval 'white villages' dotting hilltops and steep slopes throughout the region.

MIXING OF CULTURE
The history of Andalusia is a mix of different cultures. The Iberians laid the first foundations, followed by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, Visigoths and Moors, who left an indelible mark on the architecture, language and culture. The Reconquista brought Spanish influence and blended with existing heritage to create the vibrant, diverse culture we know today.

Discover the Sistema Subbético
In the northern part of the Cordillera Bética, within the Sistema Subbético, lies the beautiful Cazorla Natural Park, which reaches an impressive 2,107 meters. This area is a nature lover's paradise and offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife and many hiking trails showcasing the natural beauty of Andalusia.

The greatness of the Sistema Penibético
Heading south, I explore the Sistema Penibético, home to the Iberian Peninsula's highest peak, Mulhacén. At an altitude of 3,482 meters in the Sierra Nevada National Park, Mulhacén is a must for any mountain lover. This part of the mountain range has numerous peaks above 3,000 meters, making it the highest mountain range in Europe after the Alps.

Winter Wonderland
Due to the high altitude of these mountains, many peaks above 2,000 meters are often covered with snow in winter. The Sierra Nevada is home to Europe's southernmost ski area, where snow can cover the landscape for up to nine months of the year. It is a winter sports paradise against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes.

Unique flora and fauna
Above treeline, the rugged terrain is dominated by hardy cushion-forming plants such as gorse and broom, perfectly adapted to withstand the harsh weather conditions. Below the tree line, extensive pine forests create a serene environment. Both Cazorla and the Sierra Nevada are rich in biodiversity and are home to a large number of endemic and rare plant species, making them hotspots for botany enthusiasts.

Join me as I walk through these incredible landscapes, uncovering natural wonders and hidden gems. Don't forget to like, comment and subscribe for more of my adventures and explorations around the world from the 114 countries I've visited. So far!

#hiking #travel #adventure #shorts #history #culture

Please take the opportunity to connect and share this video with your friends and family if you find it useful.