Attractions and places to see in Embalse De Malpasillo include a significant ecological and scenic destination, recognized as a Natural Park and RAMSAR wetland. This area features the 87-hectare Malpasillo Reservoir, fed by the Genil River, and is crucial for diverse birdlife. Visitors can explore natural characteristics, cultural sites, and various points of interest within its protected 512 hectares.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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Hermitage that still contains the style of a Mozarabic-style cave church in which the amplitude of its façade stands out, making it one of the few monuments of these characteristics in Andalusia.
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Beautiful views of the Malpasillo Reservoir and you can also see the continuity of the Río Genil!
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Outdoor adventure route, passing through the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora de la Fuensanta and the ruins of old mines.
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View of the Malpasillo Dam on the Genil River on the outskirts of the town of Badolatosa. The slowing of the river creates a unique natural landscape and a habitat for wildlife. A great outdoor space for adventure.
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From this point we can see the dam on the Genil river and the town of Badolatosa on our left. Going down the dirt road we will arrive at the famous meander of the Genil river (it is a 15-minute walk).
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It is located on the outskirts of the municipality and was built between 1544 and 1620. It is a Mozarabic-style cave church in which the breadth of its façade stands out, making it one of the few monuments of these characteristics in Andalusia. .
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One of the last meanders of the Genil river before reaching the Malpasillo Reservoir, close to the town of Badolatosa. Space to be there for a while, quietly and enjoying this beautiful landscape!
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Torrent that comes from the foot of the town of Corcoya and that develops towards the Malpasillo Reservoir. The floor of the torrent has been drilling through the rock to form the caves that are currently found in this area of the torrent.
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The region is rich in natural beauty, centered around the Malpasillo Reservoir, a significant wetland fed by the Genil River. You can observe the picturesque Genil River Meander near Badolatosa, known for its serene landscape. The reservoir itself is a RAMSAR wetland, crucial for diverse birdlife. Additionally, explore the unique geological formations at Arroyo del Pontón, where a torrent has eroded the rock to form caves.
Yes, the area features notable cultural sites. The Hermitage of Our Lady of Fuensanta in Corcoya is a must-see. Built between 1544 and 1620, it's a rare Mozarabic-style cave church distinguished by its expansive façade, making it one of Andalusia's few monuments of its kind. You can also find other points of interest like the José María El Tempranillo Caves mentioned in regional research.
Embalse De Malpasillo is ideal for active tourism. You can enjoy hiking and rafting in the natural surroundings. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes available. You can find various road cycling routes, touring bicycle routes, and MTB trails, catering to different difficulty levels.
The Embalse de Malpasillo is a significant site for bird reproduction, wintering, and migration. Therefore, spring and autumn are excellent for birdwatching. The stable water levels and developed marsh vegetation make it attractive to numerous species year-round. For hiking and outdoor activities, spring and early autumn offer pleasant temperatures.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Genil River Meander and the Hermitage of Our Lady of Fuensanta are both considered family-friendly. The general natural setting of the reservoir and its surrounding park offer opportunities for easy walks and enjoying nature with children.
The Embalse de Malpasillo is internationally important for its rich birdlife. It serves as a crucial resting, nesting, and hibernation spot for many species. You can easily spot stiff-tailed ducks, northern shovellers, mallards, common pochards, Eurasian coots, and various herons. Recent recoveries include flamingos, storks, avocets, and different plovers, making it a fantastic destination for birdwatching.
For stunning panoramic views, visit the Views of the Malpasillo Dam and Genil River. From this point, you can see the dam on the Genil River and the town of Badolatosa. It's also a short walk down to the famous Genil River Meander, which offers picturesque views.
Yes, the area features interesting cave formations. The Arroyo del Pontón is a gorge where a torrent from Corcoya has eroded the rock to form caves, offering an intermediate adventure route. Additionally, the José María El Tempranillo Caves are another point of interest near the Embalse de Malpasillo.
The waters of the Malpasillo Reservoir are notably characterized by a whitish color. This distinctive hue is due to the surrounding gypsiferous marl soils, which contribute to the unique natural landscape of the area.
Yes, the Embalse de Malpasillo area supports fishing as one of its active tourism options. It's a popular activity for locals and visitors alike, offering a peaceful way to enjoy the natural surroundings.
The area around the Embalse de Malpasillo boasts thick and diverse vegetation. You'll find bulrushes, canes, reeds, lilies, and rushes, which thrive in the marshy areas. Additionally, tamarisks, willows, poplars, and elms contribute to the rich habitat, providing cover and food for the abundant wildlife, especially birds.


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