The Sierra María-Los Vélez Natural Park is a protected area of medium and high mountains in the north of Almería, in the eastern end of the Betic System. It was declared a natural park in 1987 and occupies 22,562 hectares distributed among the municipalities of María, Vélez-Blanco, Vélez-Rubio and Chirivel. The relief combines limestone massifs, steep slopes, valleys and peaks that exceed 2,000 meters, with a very contrasting landscape between the mountains and the surrounding depressions. From its viewpoints and high tracks you can appreciate rocky outcrops, masses of pine and juniper forests, high mountain formations and, on clear days, wide views over the Almeria plateau and the neighboring mountains. The fauna linked to the cliffs includes birds of prey such as the golden eagle, the hawk and the griffon vulture, species mentioned prominently in the official tourist information. The area also has a visitor center in Vélez-Blanco, located in the historic Almacén de Trigo or granary, which helps to understand the flora, fauna and traditional use of the territory. The Junta de Andalucía also includes it in the Network of Protected Natural Spaces, with the figure of ZEPA. The best time to visit it is usually spring and autumn, when temperatures are milder and the contrast of colors is greater; in winter it can offer snowy landscapes at high altitudes.
