The reservoir below was formed by the damming of the Guadalete River, which provides water to the neighboring agricultural regions.
Zahara de la Sierra was declared a Conjunto Histórico-Artístico in 1983 due to its preserved urban structure.
The area is a key stop on the 'Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos' (Route of the White Villages).
The town's strategic position allowed it to serve as a Nasrid outpost during the 14th and 15th centuries.
The specific limestone geology of the mountain creates the characteristic jagged silhouette visible from the mirador.
The Mirador de Zahara de la Sierra is an elevated vantage point situated in the heart of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park in Andalusia. It offers panoramic views of the turquoise Zahara-El Gastor Reservoir and the surrounding limestone mountain ranges. The viewpoint is located along the town’s winding streets, which are characteristic of the White Villages (Pueblos Blancos) architecture. From this height, visitors can observe the ruins of the 13th-century Moorish castle that sits on the highest crag above the village. The surrounding landscape is primarily Mediterranean scrubland and olive groves. The viewpoint is freely accessible to the public and functions as a primary orientation point for navigating the village's steep incline. The area serves as a focal point for birdwatchers tracking raptors such as the griffon vulture.
The north-facing stone wall at the top of the viewpoint looking down toward the reservoir.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear as the village streets are paved with uneven cobblestones and feature steep inclines.
Bring binoculars to scan the cliffs above for nesting griffon vultures.
Visit the nearby Church of Santa María de la Mesa for its distinct Baroque altar.
Attempting to drive a large rental car into the village center; navigate to the outskirts and proceed on foot.
