The area
of Sierra de Segura i located in the northeastern
part of the province of Jaen, in the largest of Spain’s natural
reserves, with 214.000 Ha, composed of three mountain ranges
after which the area is named. Located in the south of the
Iberian Peninsula, the Segura Mountain range combines the
enchantment of two district worlds. The smooth hills of the
Andalusian olive groves and the majestic relief of the Beticas
Mountain ranges endow the region with the high altitude with
peaks reaching up to 2000 m above sea level. Although there
is abundant sunshine, the plentiful rain and snow cause the
green mountains to be furrowed by the pure waters of numerous
rivers. The gallant landscape is crowned with the gray and
sepia of limestone cloves, and is sprinkled with small white
towns and villages.
The region of Segura occupies 2/3 of the Natural Park of Carzola,
Segura and Las Villas, the greatest protected area of Spain
and one of the most well known spots of vital importance on
the European map of Biodiversity. The interminable Segura
forests that are swarming with wild life host no less than
200 vegetal species. Among the more notable northern trees
like the Holly, the Tejo and the Birch are numerous other
unique plants saved from extinction. Most of the great Iberian
fauna is found here, one being able to observe 130 species
of birds and bigger herbivores like Deer and the wild goat.
The territory of Segura Mountains consists of twelve municipalities,
with a population of 30.116 inhabitants of which a 56,4% are
dedicated to the primary sector. The region is divided between
olive groves and high mountain ranges allowing visitors to
fully immerse in nature and taste the rich gastronomy of each
individual area. Moreover, visitors can take the historical
routes with numerous rests of great importance in the Arab
culture, which has contributed greatly to the evolution of
the region. There one can share traditions and celebrations
with the hospitable natives, or take part in some adventurous
sports like parachuting from the Yelmo’s 1809m drop, one of
the most exciting areas in Andalusia.