The Los Reales de Sierra Bermeja Natural Park stands out for the fact that is home to one of the largest areas in which peridotites, a type of volcanic rock, have surfaced. It gives the hills their characteristic garnet colour and, in turn, gives them their name.

These minerals, together with a mild climate and a special rainfall pattern create the necessary conditions for the growth of more than 50 plant species that are uncommon in other natural protected areas. Notably the Galium viridiflorum and Staelina baetica. Also notable is the only Spanish fir population to grow on peridotites, made up of 90 hectares and spread over four different areas. The Spanish fir alludes to a glacial past that can currently only otherwise be seen in some parts of the Cadiz and Malaga mountains. It is found it in high areas accompanied by gorse as in the case of the apex of Los Reales, at 1,450 metres of altitude. Further down the mountain, others typically found in this Natural Area can be seen, such as pine and cork oak. The scrubland here is mainly made up of gorse and strawberry trees. From this enclave you can enjoy spectacular views of the Costa del Sol and the beautiful mountain villages.

The rich vegetation of this place is home to numerous mammals. The roe deer and the genet tend to frequent the most dense areas, while the scrubland is occupied by mongoose and the crags by mountain goats. Birds are represented by the short-toed tree creeper and the common crossbill. Birds of prey are also in abundance, such as Bonelli´s eagle, the golden eagle, peregrine falcon and Eurasian eagle owl.

The cultural heritage here is also rich. A walk through the old town of Casares or a visit to the remains of the Moorish castle is strongly recommended. Genalguacil is a town that lies between the Genal River and Sierra Bermeja. It is home to beautiful green landscapes and a Moorish history, typical of the region, that only adds to the charm of the town. There is also the coastal town of Estepona, where you can enjoy both sea and mountains, and which boasts one of the four Spanish fir tree forests in this area.