Nature
The Sierra de las Nieves Biosphere Reserve has been incorporated into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves due to its unique lands from a physical and natural point of view; forests of relict species such as the Spanish fir (Abies pinsapo) and those of cork oaks, holm oaks, reforested pine forests, scrubland and fields. These appear on irregular reliefs that go from the highest of peaks right the way down to the rivers and streams. Theses terraces are truly unique landscapes, as well as the sima GESM, which is one of the ten deepest caves in the world.

Human activity
The variety of landscapes is a result of the use of natural resources throughout history up to the modern day. Based on agriculture, livestock and the forest (chestnut, cork and pine wood), it brought about special trades such as that of the “nevero”, whereby snow and ice was collected, conserved and transported around the region. Beekeeping and mushroom picking are other activities still popular today.
Tourism is an important part of the Biosphere Reserve. The richness of the natural environment and geological spoils (ravines, gullies and caves), precious landscape of its pretty towns, on top of its proximity to the Costa del Sol make it a very attractive destination.

Culture
The towns of this Biosphere Reserve boast a historical and cultural heritage that includes the spectacular city of Ronda, well preserved castles, the irrigated landscape of Jorox, and the spa in Tolox.
However, one of the most extraordinary parts of Sierra de las Nieves´ cultural heritage is its terraces, inherited from the Al-Andalus era. A great amount of Prehistoric remains have been discovered in the Jorox caves and dolmens in Alozaina and El Burgo.