Walking the wild side of Sierra Nevada mountains

Try a break in Almunècar on Costa Tropical after hiking Sierra Nevada

SIERRA NEVADA, SPAIN The mighty mountains east of Malaga offer walks of solitude and the most magnificent views from anywhere and visits to some white villages full of charm and history. As the sun hides behind the cloud, the lumbering hills darken with dramatic effect. But when the sun does appear, no matter what the season, they are an inviting prospect for a hill walker.

We walk between olive and almond trees, determined for the next idyllic white village where time has stood still. Furthermore, passing vineyards and through lush forests, and  fantastic view beyond the mighty Sierra Nevada, Andalusia’s largest mountain area in southern Spain.

Speed for everyone to enjoy the walk

Sierra Nevada means “snowy mountain” and on the peaks at 2-3000 metres altitude there is snow parts of the year and above the city of Granada is Europe’s southernmost ski resort. Mostly the hikes take place at 1500 meters above sea level, where the sun shines every single day and the speed is no bigger than everyone is able to enjoy the walk, the experience and reach the evening meal at the hotel.

Guided walks. The walk of Sierra Nevada mountains has it all; the scenery with an occasional hint of danger is as dramatic as in the mountains itself and here are some brilliant places to stop for a lunch. Look for route descriptions and information for visitors, such as where to stay and how to get around. If you just want to go for a two-hour stroll, or some really challenging hiking, you can download files with detailed maps. From self-guided walks to follow groups.

Modern-day villages built on traditions

Places to visit. Sierra Nevada is spread across two provinces – Granada and Almería. The white villages of the Alpurarras are a destination in their own right, and even if you decide to stay elsewhere they make a good day trip from Granada. Dotted amongst the southern foothills of the Sierra Nevada, many of these villages were until recently very isolated from modern life. As a result, they developed highly distinctive styles of architecture, pottery and weaving, all of which are deeply indebted to the strong Moorish heritage. Modern-day villagers have successfully built on these traditions and products of authenticity.

Three villages. Some of the most popular places to stay are the three villages of the Poquiera: Pampaneira, Bubión and Capileira. Many of the apartments here have spectacular views up towards the high mountains, as well as down into the gorge below. Capileira makes the perfect base if you want to climb Mulhacén, as it is the departure point for the small bus that takes hikers up to an altitude of 2,700 metres. Both Pampaneira and Capileira also have information centers.

The other main hiking base in the Alpujarras is Trevélez, famous for its cured hams. At 1,476 metres above sea level it is the highest village in Andalucía and ideal for drying the ham. Try Jamòn Serrano at any of the many bars, which have hams handing from the ceiling.

Almunècar has charm and narrow streets

The Tropical Coast. After days of hiking, culture and history in Sierra Nevada, it is back to civilization – for a couple of days in Almunècar on the Costa Tropical or Malaga area on Costa del Sol. However, Bahia Tropical in Almunècar is an excellent reminder that hotel life by the sea after all has its pros.
Almunècar is a rather small coastal town with charming and narrow streets, also historic with reminders from both Roman and Moorish times. Just take a look at “El Salazon” – a market that a few thousand years ago provided the empire with salted fish.

The mountain people in Sierra Nevada

Eat with locals. Both in Sierra Nevada and on the coast, the local population is incredibly hospitable. The mountain people are a rare reminder that the area is both a bit mysterious and not destroyed by mass tourism, a reminder that gets right in your face when returning to the developed coastal strip. Beef, lamb and chicken are the usual ingredients in an Andalusian meal, but add fish and seafood on the coast. Locals know where the best food is served. You always get space, although it may take some time. Whoever is waiting for something good does not wait in vain – and in the meanwhile you can enjoy a drink and tapas.

Tradition. The province of Grenada has a sympathetic tradition, which means that for every drink you order, the guest will receive a free tapa, a mini dish. And if you order more drinks, a new tapa will come on the table. In this way, a bar visit leads you to a small and unique meal. In the past, free tapas were a tradition throughout Andalucia, but now it exists only in three of eight provinces. If you are looking for a distinct local specialty, try the “Tortilla de Sakremonde” – a local omelet made from eggs, potatoes and sheep brains.

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