Sierra Nevada near Granada

About the Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada, Spanish for snowy range, is a mountain chain in the provinces of Granada and Almería. It holds Mulhacén, at 3,479 metres the highest peak in mainland Spain, and its ridge stays above 3,000 metres for long stretches. The snowy summits are visible from Granada, most beautifully from the towers of the Alhambra.

Part of the range is a national park and biosphere reserve, and astronomical observatories stand on the northern slopes at 2,800 metres. The climate is a world apart from the city: by day the mountains are about 12 degrees colder than Granada, so people come for cool air in summer and snow in winter.

The ski resort

In winter the Sierra Nevada runs a ski resort centred on the village of Pradollano, one of the southernmost in Europe. The sun shines almost every day, and on clear days the top runs look out to the Mediterranean and even the mountains of Africa. There are runs for beginners and experts, ski schools, rentals and a snow park.

The season usually runs from about December to April, depending on snow. It gets busy at weekends and holidays, so come on a weekday if you can. Ski passes and rentals are cheaper online.

Things to do in the Sierra Nevada

• Skiing and snowboarding — in winter at Pradollano.
• Hiking — national park trails in summer.
• Climbing Mulhacén — for fit hikers, in summer.
• Glacial lakes — high on the southern slopes.
• The Alpujarra villages — white hamlets on the hillsides.
• Views of Granada — from the high viewpoints.

In summer: trails and the Alpujarra

In summer snow lingers only on the highest peaks, and the slopes fill with alpine flowers. National park trails lead to glacial lakes and viewpoints. Fit hikers climb Mulhacén, a long full-day trek best done with a guide.

On the southern slopes lies the Alpujarra, valleys of white villages where flat-roofed houses cling to the hillside and meltwater runs in channels. Ham, rugs and local honey are made here. A drive through the Alpujarra villages from Granada makes a lovely day for anyone who enjoys slow wandering.

Nature in the national park

The Sierra Nevada National Park is one of the richest natural areas in Spain, ranging from Mediterranean woods at the foot to alpine meadows and bare rock near the summits. Dozens of plant species grow here and nowhere else, and Iberian ibex graze calmly beside the trails.

Tips for your trip

Leave in the morning, as the drive takes about an hour and winter days are short. Plan a full day. If you're in Granada in summer, the mountains are the best escape from the heat: while the city bakes at 35 °C, it's pleasantly cool at 2,000 metres.

Beginners should book a lesson at a local ski school, where instructors speak English and the gentle runs at the base suit first steps. Children love the snow areas and sledging.

Mind the altitude: at 3,000 metres it's easy to tire and burn. Drink plenty of water, take it slowly and watch the forecast.

How to do it right

• Allow a full day.
• Warm layers even in summer.
• Ski passes online.
• Summer means trails and cool air.

Questions