La Alpujarra Route
La Alpujarra is the mountainous region that runs along the southern flanks of the Sierra Nevada, shared between the provinces of Granada and Almeria. It is home to some of the highest villages in Spain, many of them clinging to steep south-facing slopes and appearing to grow directly out of the rugged landscape.
The distinctive architecture of La Alpujarra
The traditional houses of La Alpujarra are immediately recognisable. Most have flat roofs made of “launa”, a waterproof clay formed from the decomposition of the local slate. This flat-roofed, cube-like style is also found in parts of Almeria’s desert and coastal zones and shows clear North African influences, a living reminder of the long Moorish and Morisco presence in these mountains until the late 16th century.
Because the villages are built on steep slopes, the roof of one house often serves as the terrace of the house above. Walls are of stone, usually whitewashed, while slate is used for cornices. Characteristic details include truncated-cone chimneys, wooden balconies and continuous verandas. On the ground floor many houses still preserve the “tinao”, originally a covered space or animal shelter that opens directly onto the street.
The urban layout itself is inherited from the Islamic period: narrow, winding streets that suddenly open into small squares containing the church, town hall or a few bars and shops. The overall effect is one of complete integration with the landscape. Local materials – stone, adobe, chestnut beams and launa – were used almost exclusively.
A brief history
After the Muslim conquest of 711 the valleys of the Alpujarra were settled by communities who brought with them the building traditions and agricultural techniques of North Africa. They created the spectacular system of terraces and irrigation channels (acequias) that still shape the higher Alpujarra today.
When Granada fell to the Catholic Monarchs in 1492, pressure on the remaining Muslim population intensified. Many who refused conversion, or who converted only nominally (the Moriscos), retreated into these remote mountains. Successive revolts followed, culminating in the major Rebellion of the Alpujarras of 1568–1571. The uprising was crushed with great severity and was followed by the forced resettlement of much of the Morisco population. The architecture and landscape we see today still carry the imprint of that long Islamic and Morisco chapter.
Villages not to miss
The Poqueira Valley – Pampaneira, Bubion and Capileira
These three villages, stacked one above the other on the steep slopes of the Poqueira gorge, are the classic image of the Alpujarra. Whitewashed houses with flat launa roofs, narrow streets, flowering balconies and dramatic views of the Sierra Nevada make them the most visited and photographed settlements in the region. Capileira is the highest of the three and a good starting point for walks into the high mountains.
Trevélez
One of the highest villages in Spain and famous throughout the country for its cured mountain hams (jamón de Trevélez). The setting is spectacular and the traditional architecture is well preserved.
Lanjarón
Located at the western entrance to the Alpujarra, Lanjarón is known for its mineral water and as a historic spa town. It makes a convenient first or last stop on a tour of the region.
Suggested architecture and village itinerary
- Begin in Granada or from the coast and enter the Alpujarra via Lanjarón.
- Continue into the Poqueira Valley to explore Pampaneira, Bubion and Capileira on foot, paying attention to the flat roofs, tinaos, chimneys and the way the houses stack up the hillside.
- Travel eastwards to Trevélez for its high-altitude setting and famous hams.
- Explore further villages according to time and interest; many smaller settlements reward a short detour.
You can use this map to plan your route and discover additional villages.
Exploring La Alpujarra from Malaga
The Alpujarra is a region of winding mountain roads and scattered villages. A car is by far the most practical way to move between the different valleys and settlements at your own pace.
Car hire: the most flexible option
Hiring a car at Malaga Airport gives you complete freedom to explore the high villages of the Poqueira Valley, Trevélez and the wider Alpujarra without depending on limited public transport.
Hire a car at Malaga Airport
Taxi or private transfer
If you prefer not to drive the mountain roads, a private transfer can take you to a base such as Lanjarón, Órgiva or one of the Poqueira villages.
Book a transfer from Malaga Airport*There is no need to enter credit card details or make an advance payment. We recommend booking in good time.
Frequently asked questions about La Alpujarra
What makes the architecture of the Alpujarra special?
The flat launa roofs, cube-shaped houses stacked up the mountainside, wooden balconies, characteristic chimneys and the way the villages blend into the landscape are unique in mainland Spain and reflect both local materials and long North African and Moorish influence.
Which villages should I visit first?
The three villages of the Poqueira Valley – Pampaneira, Bubion and Capileira – are the classic starting point and offer the most complete concentration of traditional architecture and scenery.
Is a car necessary?
Yes, a car is by far the most practical way to explore the Alpujarra. Public transport exists but is limited and makes it difficult to visit more than one or two villages comfortably in a day.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures and clear views of the Sierra Nevada. Summer can be hot in the lower valleys, while winter brings the possibility of snow in the higher villages.
