Sierra Nevada, meaning “snowy range” in Spanish, is a mountain range located in the south-east of Andalusia, in the province of Granada. It contains the highest point of continental Spain, Mulhacen peak, with 3,479 metres above sea level.
It is a very popular tourist destination, as it’s Europe’s southernmost ski resort – thanks to the high peaks that make skiing possible. This area along the Mediterranean Sea is predominantly known for its warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. At the foothills is placed the city of Granada and, a little further, the borders with Malaga and Almeria provinces.
Sierra Nevada Winter & Summer
Pradollano Ski Resort
Pradollano is Europe’s southernmost Ski resort, and a very popular one!
Situated less than 40 km from Granada city, Pradollano is very popular with locals and students. But also with national and international visitors who take advantage of the proximity for a snowy getaway.
The resort is located at an altitude of almost 2,000 metres. It offers an excellent infrastructure of car parks, hotels, restaurants and shops as well as a wide range of après ski facilities (sauna and swimming pools) and a spectacular nightlife.
The ski season in Sierra Nevada lasts from November to mid-April. And there are usually more than 100 km of slopes open under spectacular blue skies and bright sunshine.
The season closes with the very popular swimming costume descent. This is a fun event where skiers dress up in all sorts of swimming costumes and other carnivalesque attire.
Pradollano also has a great winter offer for non-skiers such as toboggan rides or a great winter playground for the little ones, just to name a few.
Sierra Nevada National Park
Parts of the range have been included in the Sierra Nevada National Park. The range has also been declared a biosphere reserve. The Sierra Nevada Observatory is located on the northern slopes at 2800m.
The observatory organises events throughout the year to watch starshowers and observe the spectacular starry sky from up there.
In summer the cool altitude is a good alternative to the sweltering heat. There are many routes, but keep in mind that it is a high mountain and you have to be equipped accordingly.
Skiing and bathing in the Mediterranean Sea the same day
This very popular slogan was born already many years ago and is actually true.
Technically, you can go skiing in the morning in Sierra Nevada and make it on time to enjoy a nice bath in the Mediterranean Sea in the afternoon.
We say technically because, firstly you will have to rush a bit. Secondly, snow season in Sierra Nevada is from November to April.
Which means that the sea water at this time of the year is quite freezing to enjoy a proper swim. Yet, many locals and foreigners go for their dip all year round, a very healthy practice.
In this map you can see approximate travel time if you fancy taking this dip in the charming white coastal village of Salobreña, we can recommend it!
The Alpujarra – Moorish charm where time stands still
If you want to live a truly “magical experience” we highly recommend you plan time for a trip to the Alpujarra.
Located on the southern slopes of Sierra Nevada, between high mountain ranges and deep valleys, this area holds a special micro climate.
Inhabited since centuries, little has changed in the layout of these typical whitewashed villages of moorish origin clinging to the mountains.
To get there, still today requires time and “slow travel” attitude, along the winding mountain roads. You will be rewarded with breath-taking sceneries, abundance of water and the real feel of being in a completely different time frame… time literally goes slower in the Alpujarra.
Gateway to the Alpujarra, coming from Granada, is Lanjarón, famous for its healing waters. The official capital of the Alpujarra is Órgiva.
This little charming town is also known as the Ibiza of the south due the very large number of alternative travellers and hippie communities in the area. As such, Órgiva has a very large offer on alternative events, vegetarian bistros or ecological food shops among others.
Very popular villages are for instance Capileira, Pampaneira or Trevélez. It is one of the highest villages on the peninsula and very famous for its air cured hams.
If you are looking to spend your holidays in Sierra Nevada, don’t forget to check Malagaholidays.com‘s special offers and packages.
Granada – A dream of a thousand and one nights
Just in case you hadn’t considered it on your own:
If you’re in the area you can’t leave without visiting Granada: The jewel in the crown with a rich monumental and historical heritage, vibrant university city and queen of the tapas.
Are you going to miss it?
Sierra Nevada Map
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