Free walking tours in Sierra Nevada and what to see

Must-sees

Sierra Nevada is the southernmost ski resort in Europe, about 30 kilometres from Granada. Life revolves around Pradollano, the village at the foot of the slopes, with hotels, hire shops and Plaza de Andalucía. From there gondolas rise to Borreguiles, the beginners' area and the meeting point for ski schools. The resort has more than a hundred kilometres of runs and usually opens from late November to April.

Above the slopes rise Veleta and Mulhacén, the latter the highest peak on the Iberian Peninsula. On clear days you can see the Mediterranean from the top and, sometimes, the coast of Africa. Outside the snow season the sierra changes completely: it is a National Park with mountain routes, unique flora and high-altitude trails.

Free tours and guided visits

Free tours are rare here, because the resort is mainly a sports destination. What you will find are ski and snowboard lessons, guided snowshoe routes off-piste and, in summer, excursions with a mountain guide up Veleta or Mulhacén. The best use of your time is Granada: there are tip-based free tours of the centre, the Albaicín and the Sacromonte, and a guided visit to the Alhambra is well worth it, booked in advance. The Alpujarra, with Pampaneira and Capileira, is another good excursion.

How long to spend

For skiing, three to five days is usual, enough to cover the different areas without wearing yourself out. If it is your first time, book at least two mornings of lessons. Add one or two days for Granada: a full day for the Alhambra and the Generalife, and another for the Albaicín, the centre and the cathedral.

Where to stay

If skiing is your priority, stay in Pradollano, near Plaza de Andalucía or the lifts, so you can head out in your boots and avoid the mountain road. If you want to combine snow and city, Granada is a good base: there are buses to the resort and the drive takes around an hour. In the city, the centre around the cathedral and Puerta Real keeps you within walking distance of the Albaicín and the climb to the Alhambra.