Sierra Nevada & Alpujarras 🏘️
"Europe's southernmost ski resort meets whitewashed mountain villages."
You can road-trip through the high-altitude 'White Villages' of the Alpujarras. It provides a unique contrast where you can hike through olive groves with views of 3,000m+ snow-capped peaks above you.
A rugged mountain escape blending the high-altitude peaks of the Sierra Nevada with the ancient, white-washed Moorish charm of the Alpujarra valleys. Focused on scenic drives and iconic hikes, this trip explores Spain's most dramatic southern landscapes.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Gateway to the Sierra Nevada
Morning — Arrive in Granada. Pick up your rental car and head to the city center for a quick walk through the Alcaicería market.
Afternoon — Drive toward the Sierra Nevada foothills. Explore the Albaicín district's winding streets and take in the sunset view of the Alhambra from Mirador de San Nicolás.
Evening — Enjoy traditional tapas in the vibrant Plaza Larga. Many bars in Granada offer a free tapa with every drink order.
💡 Book Alhambra tickets at least 2-3 months in advance if you want to see the palaces.
Day 2 · High Peaks and Alpine Vistas
Morning — Drive the A-395, one of Europe's highest paved roads, into the heart of the Sierra Nevada National Park. Stop at the Canales Reservoir.
Afternoon — Drive to Hoya de la Mora (2,500m). Hike the trail toward the Veleta peak for dramatic high-altitude views without requiring technical gear.
Evening — Stargaze from the mountain pass before heading down to Monachil for a rustic dinner of 'Plato Alpujarreño'.
💡 Even in summer, pack a windbreaker; the temperature drops significantly above 2,000m.
Day 3 · Hanging Bridges and Spa Towns
Morning — Hike the Los Cahorros trail in Monachil, crossing famous hanging bridges and walking through narrow limestone gorges.
Afternoon — Arrive in Lanjarón, the gateway to the Alpujarras. Visit the Water Museum and walk the 'Ruta del Agua' to see the town's many tiled fountains.
Evening — Dine in a local 'mesón' and try the famous local honey and goat cheese.
💡 The Los Cahorros trail can be slippery near the river; wear shoes with excellent grip.
Day 4 · The White Villages of Poqueira
Morning — Drive deeper into the Poqueira Valley to Pampaneira. Explore the craft shops known for 'jarapas' (colorful hand-woven rugs).
Afternoon — Drive to Bubión and Pitres. These villages are quieter and offer a more authentic glimpse into the Berber-style architecture of the region.
Evening — Stay overnight in Capileira. Enjoy a glass of local Costa wine at a bar overlooking the Poqueira Gorge.
💡 Park at the entrance of the villages; the interiors are mostly pedestrian-only and extremely narrow.
Day 5 · Summiting the Mainland's Highest Peak
Morning — Full day of hiking. Take the shuttle (SIAC) from Capileira toward the high peaks to hike toward Mulhacén (the highest point in mainland Spain).
Afternoon — For a less strenuous option, hike the 'Acequia' trails—ancient Moorish irrigation channels that offer flat walking and incredible valley views.
Evening — Farewell dinner in Capileira. Try the local 'jamón' from nearby Trevélez, the highest village in Spain.
💡 The Mulhacén shuttle must be booked in advance through the National Park office in Capileira.
Day 6 · Witches and Mountain Farewells
Morning — Drive to Soportújar, the 'Village of Witches.' Explore the quirky sculptures and enjoy the expansive views toward the Mediterranean.
Afternoon — Head to the riverside 'playeta' in Soportújar if time permits before returning to the city or airport.
Evening — Return to Granada for your flight or evening train. Itinerary ends.
💡 Stop in Trevélez on the way back to buy vacuum-sealed mountain ham to take home.