To the north, the Baetic Ranges are separated from the Meseta Central and the Sierra Morena by the basin of the Guadalquivir.

[1] The best-known range of the Baetic System is the Sierra Nevada, which contains the Mulhacén, the highest mountain in continental Spain and in the Iberian Peninsula.

[4] Geologically the Rif mountains in Morocco and the Serra de Tramuntana in the island of Majorca are, respectively, Soutwestern and Northeastern extensions of the Baetic System.

The Baetic mountains are home to a rich assemblage of Mediterranean plants, including a number of relict species from the ancient laurel forests, which covered much of the Mediterranean basin millions of years ago when it was more humid.

Highest point 2,027 m (6,650 ft) high Peña de la Cruz in Sierra Arana.