Discover the 12 most important museums in Málaga, the cultural destination in Andalucia
Viewpoints with the best panoramic views of Andalucia
There are images that stay with us and that make our trip to any corner unforgettable. Andalucia has a large number of landscapes throughout its geography, which leave us with panoramic views that conquer us directly. The views of Andalucia are already a claim for tourists who visit our land and the viewpoints have become privileged places that leave images that will make the memories of our trip to any part of Andalucia memorable.
The viewpoints of Costa de la Luz and Costa del Sol stand out for the beauty of their surroundings and offer snapshots that will be the best gift you can take from one of the corners of Andalucia. Therefore, we leave you a selection of viewpoints that will make you enjoy the heights and panoramic views of the south.
Mirador de San Nicolás (Granada)
It is probably the best-known viewpoint in Granada and we are not surprised. The panoramic view from this special corner of Granada is simply spectacular. And it is that seeing the Alhambra from this viewpoint is quite an experience. The San Nicolás viewpoint is located in a privileged environment where the most beautiful sunsets in this city can be seen. Seeing the sunset with the Alhambra in the background, in this cobbled neighbourhood, with a church behind it and to the sound of the music that flamenco fans sing every afternoon in this place, is magical. The beauty is present at sunset, the place and the environment surround you and the view that is right in front of you is incredibly unforgettable.
Mirador del Arrecife de las Sirenas (Cabo de Gata, Almería)
The name of this viewpoint is curious to say the least and has its origin in some animals, monk seals, that could be seen in this place in the past and that people used to confuse with mermaids. But not only the name is what draws our attention to this viewpoint, but also the panoramic view that it leaves us and that thousands of people have engraved on their memory.
In the heart of Cabo de Gata in Almería, this environment leaves a turquoise view drawn by the cliffs that can be seen from the viewpoint. The crystal-clear waters allow us to see the seabed of this emblematic site of Almería as well as the reefs that create a unique landscape that we can observe from above. There are many who choose this privileged environment for diving and to enjoy the views listening to the sound of the sea in the background.
Mirador de las Peñas, Montefrío (Granada)
This viewpoint is located in a privileged enclave of Granada, in the heart of Montefrío. This town of the Nasrid city has an impressive view from this viewpoint. In addition, in 2015 it was listed by National Geographic as one of the towns with the best views in the world. Montefrío is a town from ancient times, and today it preserves its history that we can still see in its streets and neighbourhoods. The ascent to this viewpoint is done on foot, at the same time that you enjoy the uniqueness of this town and its people. The beauty that is observed when climbing will leave you with a sensation of pleasure and memorable views that will make the rock stand out throughout the town, drawing a spectacular image for your eyes.
Mirador de Grazalema, (Cádiz)
Grazalema is par excellence one of the most spectacular white villages on the entire route. Reaching this environment is already a privilege in itself, since walking through the streets of this town, considered one of the most beautiful, is a gift. In addition, tasting any of the dishes is a gastronomic experience that only those who visit Grazalema have the opportunity to enjoy. The view at this viewpoint is quite a claim for those who visit this Cadiz town and see the beautiful and typical white houses. The image that can be seen from here is defined as impressive and a must-see that cannot be seen from anywhere else. The surroundings of Grazalema offer us an environment that recomposes us and that makes us enjoy the greatness of our land, therefore, being dazzled by the snapshots that can be seen from the viewpoint of this town is a jewel for the soul that we cannot miss.
The Balcony of Europe, Nerja (Malaga)
Nerja is a city in Malaga which is steeped in history, especially that of our distant ancestors. The town has a cave where men lived an estimated 42,000 years ago, so their cave paintings are some of the oldest in the world. But there is a special place that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea where the feeling of freedom washes over you. It’s called the Balcony of Europe and is named after King Alfonso XII who visited the area in 1885 after a disastrous earthquake and was captivated by that stage. He was the monarch who came to this place to check the damage caused by the earthquake and gave it the name it has today because when you were there, it seemed to be followed by Africa, hence the name “Balcony”. A spectacular viewpoint from where you can glimpse the immensity of the sea.
Mirador de Mijas (Malaga)
In the white picturesque town of Mijas, its neighbours know its most famous viewpoints as the Wall. This infrastructure was born dates from the Moorish era when foreign peoples that sailed the Mediterranean threatened the peace of the Arab village. The walk through this viewpoint puts the Costa del Sol at your feet and the views are priceless. Walking down this path full of gardens and gullies where waters descend as springs is an exercise in tranquillity which is priceless.
Mirador del Estrecho, Tarifa (Cádiz)
Where Europe ends and Africa begins. You can almost reach out and touch the other continent from the mirador del Estrecho in Tarifa. A unique feeling comes over you when you look over the sea and see two different worlds so close together. Do not miss this beautiful image if you visit the province of Cádiz, a memory that will stay with you forever. Only 15 miles separate the coasts and on days when the sky is perfectly clear, you can see from Ceuta to Tangier.
El Juanar de Ojén (Malaga)
With spectacular views over the city of Marbella this viewpoint is 900 m high, putting the majestic Mediterranean Sea at our feet. On the mountain to our left, known as the Port of Marbella, we can see a monument to the ibex which is very abundant in this area. For this reason, it is also known as the Mirador of the Ibex. From here, a winding road begins that descends to the spring of Puerto Rico. To our right, the Cruz del Juanar is located and we can access its summit by ascending the winding path from near the viewpoint. An unforgettable outdoor experience with exceptional views.
Mirador del Conquero, Huelva
Panoramic view of the city of Huelva and the Natural Park of Marismas del Odiel is the place to get the best taste of the capital of Huelva. El Conquero is one of the most emblematic areas in Huelva, not only due to the presence of numerous hillocks that form its peculiar physiognomy, but also for the wonderful views from a walk around this place. Bring home a unique picture of this Columbian space and experience the wonders offered by this unique view.
Viewpoints in El Torcal, Antequera (Malaga)
El Torcal de Antequera has two viewpoints: las Ventanillas and Diego Monea. At both of them, you can enjoy a superb karst landscape that makes up this beautiful Natural Park. Its limestone creates “mushroom” figures on the horizon and its protected vegetation makes this place one of the key spots to visit in the province of Malaga. Furthermore, during the astronomical activities organised, you can see a sky which is full of stars open before you. Feel free to get away to El Torcal and immortalise this exceptional spot.
Mirador de Gibralfaro, Malaga
Located on the campus of the Malaga Alcazaba, surrounded by pine trees on Mount Gibralfaro, is this viewpoint that offers stunning views of the city of Malaga. From here you can make out the Malagueta bullring, the Tres Gracias (Three Graces) fountain in the Plaza del General Torrijos, the port, the city hall, the cathedral, the Alcazaba and an unrivalled view. Also in the area are some catering establishments where you can enjoy a coffee while admiring the sea and the town. If you go to the Costa del Sol, this viewpoint will leave you with a different picture of what the city is like.
Mirador Salina Dolores in Cádiz
The Salina Dolores viewpoint is a magnificent window to the Bay of Cádiz and is a true reflection of the peculiarities of this beautiful natural park, where the sea and the wind play a leading role. The colours of the white sandy beach and the blue sea contrast with the grey of the muddy areas where typical molluscs inhabit the area, such as sea snails, clams or razor shells. It is a privileged place to spot flamingos, spoonbills and countless birds typical of intertidal areas, and also to enjoy the mosaic of shades of green, grey and orange of the flora in the area. Sunsets and sunrises are the best times to contemplate the beauty of the place.
Mirador Puerto del Boyar, Sierra de Grazalema (Cádiz)
Possibly the most important viewpoint in the province of Cádiz. Located in the privileged Sierra de Grazalema, the bird’s-eye views of this natural environment will fill your lungs with clean air. To the right is the Sierra del Pinar where the forest of pines is found, tree species extinct in most parts of the world which survives in these mountains because it is the most important rainy point of the peninsula. To the left, the sierra del Endrinal with its classic Mediterranean vegetation.
Mirador del Puente Nuevo in Ronda (Malaga)
The Puente Nuevo de Ronda can be seen in one of the most famous pictures of Spain: a stone arch which appears hold Ronda, divided into two halves by the Guadalevin River, together. However, this is not necessarily why every time people see this monument, their jaws drop with admiration. The first way to appreciate the Puente Nuevo de Ronda in all its splendour is to look from the viewpoints in the Plaza de España or Ernest Hemingway Street, in the new part of town, right at the entrance of the bridge. You need to fight the vertigo you get at the Tajo de Ronda with its fall of almost a hundred metres to the bed of the Guadalevin. A unique sight that you can see if you visit one of the most beautiful cities in Malaga with its rich heritage.
Tavira Tower (Cádiz)
This watchtower is the ideal place to enjoy Cádiz’s best views. It is the highest point of the old town rising 45 meters above sea level and housing a dark chamber from which to watch, in real time, the activities of the streets of Cádiz. Its structure is part of the House-Palace of the Marquises of Recaño from the eighteenth century, and its purpose was, same as all of the city’s watchtowers, being and advantage point from which to watch over the waters, which were vital for the commercial activities of the time.
Salto del Cabrero Overlook (Sierra de Grazalema, Cádiz)
The Salto del Cabrero (Goat Herder’s Jump) is a classic route of the Sierra de Grazalema. From the overlook, one can appreciate the beautiful structure of a fault formed by 80-meter high vertical walls separated by a 50-meter wide canyon. It is important to mention the magnificent panoramic views that can be seen from the cliff, as well as the numerous bird species that are typical of the area, such as the griffon vulture. There is a legend that says that a goat herder jumped across it carrying a pitcher of milk for his sick son without spilling a single drop.
Tinto River Pier (Huelva)
The Tinto River Pier is one of the most emblematic places of Huelva, a symbol of the history of the province. It is the favorite place of Huelva’s residents for enjoying the sunset, from a balcony overlooking the estuary. With 1,165 meters in length, it was built after the purchase of the mining developments by the English Company and served for unloading materials coming from the Rio Tinto Company Limited (RTC).
Arias Montano’s Rock (Huelva)
In the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Park, rises the Arias Montano’s Rock, in Alájar. It is a very emblematic place due to its landscapes and its natural environment, in addition to the Our Lady of the Angels cult, whose hermitage is located at this overlook.
Named after sixteenth-century humanist and theologian Arias Montano, who chose the place as his retirement place, it has been the location for several movies and is located in the highest portion of the province of Huelva, the port that separates Alájar from Castaño de Robledo. The rock or “peña” rises above a cave complex and offers unparalleled views of this area and the Sierra.
Mirador Alto (High Overlook), Villanueva del Trabuco (Malaga)
From this overlook, you can enjoy truly amazing views. You can see the entire valley of the Guadalhorce River, the Sierra de Jobo, the Sierra de Camarolos and the Sierra de las Pedrizas, in the municipality of Antequera.
Villanueva del Trabuco sits at the feet of Sierras Gorda and Sierra de San Jorge, in the central limestone arch of the province of Malaga. On the skirts of the Sierra de San Jorge, there is the Fountain of the 101 Spouts, which is a must-visit place because it is the most famous spring.
Zahara de la Sierra Overlook (Cádiz)
From the Zahara de la Sierra Overlook, you can enjoy the view of the Sierra de Líja. This Sierra is an enormous lime mass crowned by a large flatland. Although located outside of the limits of the Natural Park, it is nothing more than an extension of the conditions of the park.
Friar’s Overlook (Mirador del Fraile) (Malaga)
The Friar’s Overlook is located in the Algeciras – Ronda road, a few minutes away from the town of Atajate. From this place, one can enjoy magnificent views of the Valley of the Genal River and its surroundings.
The mountain gets its name from an ancient legend. It says that during dark and stormy nights, a hooded friar carrying a torch used to intercept those who ventured there. The religious man, using a scary voice, asked for a donation on God’s name and then disappeared without saying any more words. One day, a curious passerby wanted to find out what was under the religious man’s habit. Hence, showing his courage, he removed the friar’s hood, only to find out that what was under it was a skull.
El Rompido Spit (Flecha del Rompido) Overlook
From this overlook, you will enjoy the most spectacular sunsets of the coast of Huelva. It is located in the A-5052 road, halfway between El Rompido and Cartaya. There, you can witness some exceptional views of the mouth of the estuary of the Piedras River and of the famous El Rompido Spit, a sand strip that separates the Atlantic from the estuary and forms an idyllic beach, which can be reached by boat.
The surroundings include a natural landscape formed by sand dunes, brooms, savins and numerous aquatic birds.
Mirador Pico del Cielo, Nerja (Málaga)
This viewpoint is located in the middle of nature, specifically in the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park. It is more than 1500 meters above sea level. Some of the sections belong to the Great Path of Malaga, so you can enjoy a long walk until you reach the Pico del Cielo. The hike is long and of medium difficulty. However, it will be well worth it since the protagonists will be nature and the privileged views that we have on this peak. Seeing the region of Axarquia, the mountains, Costa del Sol, Sierra Nevada, and the coast of Granada, is a gift for the eyes. Breathing fresh air, enjoying the charm of this natural environment, exercising and observing the images of the sea bathing Malaga and Granada, is a complete sporting experience that will also remain marked forever in our retinas.
Mirador de Castilleja de la Cuesta (Seville)
The Cathedral of Seville, the Giralda, the Guadalquivir river… are some of the places that we can appreciate from this viewpoint. The architecture of Seville leaves a spectacular image and makes the city of Seville have a special charm that surrounds us. This viewpoint is located in a privileged place that offers you a panoramic view of Seville, as well as its most emblematic bridges and neighbourhoods that will leave you speechless. Enjoying the charm of this city is possible from this little corner and thus being able to surround yourself and blend in with the place, which will make you intensely enjoy a snapshot of a very special city in Andalucia. A unique image of Seville that will remain forever in your memory.
Mirador El Higuerón, La Línea de la Concepción (Cádiz)
Walking, taking a walk or taking a route and finding spectacular views is priceless. This viewpoint offers an impressive panoramic view of the city of La Línea and Gibraltar. There are many pedestrians who stop to rest and observe the image that this viewpoint leaves us. El Higuerón is one of the best-known places in this city of Cadiz, which also offers us a walk along the green path until we reach this viewpoint, an image of the Mediterranean Sea, and on days when the sky is clear, you can even see the north of Africa. This emblematic site of the Line is an environment for rest and for enjoying a beautiful view of the Rock that will remain in your retina. Undoubtedly, a special panorama from which to observe several countries at the same time.
Feel free to look from other perspectives at the cities you visit and come to these ten viewpoints that we recommend. All of them will leave you with a good taste in your mouth of the Andalusian panorama. Sierra and sea at their peak in spectacular destinations at your fingertips.
Andalucia, a paradise full of wonders
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel Fuerte Grazalema
Near each of these enchanting viewpoints, you will find a hotel from the chain Fuerte Hoteles. They feature excellent service, are leaders in quality according to Tripadvisor, and are supported by over 60 years’ worth of experience, so they are the best choice for your holidays. Conil, Grazalema, El Rompido or Torrox are some areas where you can find great accommodation.
