THE BADLANDS
A Landscape Sculpted by Time, Light, and Imagination
The badlands are one of the most iconic landscapes of the Geopark — sculpted cliffs, deep ravines, and wave‑shaped hills glowing in shades of red, gold, and ochre. Sunrise and sunset transform them completely, casting long shadows and lighting up the ridges like fire. They’re dramatic, silent, and endlessly photogenic — a true highlight of the region.
Shaped over millions of years by wind, rain, and flowing water, the badlands form a maze of eroded gullies, towering ridges, and layered rock formations that reveal the ancient history of the land. Each band of sediment tells a story of long‑vanished lakes and rivers, making this one of the most geologically important areas in Europe.
Walking or driving through the badlands feels like stepping into another world. The silence, the huge skies, and the sculptural shapes create a landscape that feels both wild and timeless — a place that invites you to slow down, look closely, and take in the sheer scale of nature’s work.

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A Natural Film Set
Because of their dramatic, almost otherworldly appearance, the badlands have been used as a backdrop for numerous films, documentaries, and TV productions. Their desert‑like scenery has stood in for distant planets, ancient worlds, and remote wildernesses.
Some notable productions filmed in the wider Geopark and badlands region include:

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•   “Exodus: Gods and Kings” – Ridley Scott used the area for its vast, biblical landscapes.

•   “The Crown” – Scenes set in Jordan and Kenya were filmed in the badlands near Guadix.

•   “Doctor Who” – The striking terrain was used to represent alien worlds.

•    Various Westerns and historical films – The rugged scenery has long been a favourite for period and adventure productions.

The combination of dramatic geology, open horizons, and natural light makes the badlands a dream location for filmmakers and photographers alike.