The highest mountain range on the Iberian Peninsula is Sierra Nevada, located just 1 ½ hours from Malaga in Granada. It is home to the southernmost ski resort in Europe. Granada offers much more to visitors besides winter sports.
The original name of Sierra Nevada is related to the Sun. During Roman times, it was known as 'Solarius', and after the fall of the Empire, the barbarians called it 'Solorio', both names related to the brightness of the sun on the snow. Muslims continued calling it the Mountain of the Sun; it was the Christians who changed the name to Sierra Nevada around the eighteenth century.
The altitude and temperature of the Sierra have allowed the conservation of the greatest biological diversity across Europe, a slow process that dates back to the last ice age, after which plant species from higher latitudes found refuge here. One of the natural symbols of Sierra Nevada is known as the Snow Star. Depending on the height, you can see vegetation on the summit, high, medium, or low mountain.
It is still possible to find areas of permafrost in various parts of the mountains, such as around the remains of a glacier in the area of Los Corrales del Veleta; reminiscent remains of ancient glaciers.
One of the attractions of Sierra Nevada is its proximity to such an important monument as the Alhambra in Granada, for which it serves as a backdrop; one of the most representative Islamic architectures in the world. The massif rises majestically behind the hills where this wonderful Moorish architecture is located, which has been declared a World Heritage Site.
Only 36 kilometres separate Granada from the Prado Llano ski resort, located at 2200 metres above sea level, one of the most popular ski resorts in Spain.
This ski resort has many advantages; the most important is the fabulous weather you can enjoy with many sunny days throughout the year and a big blue sky that makes any sport on snow even more enjoyable. During clear and cloudless days, you can see the Mediterranean coast and even the coast of Africa; the saying goes that in Granada you can ski and swim in the Mediterranean Sea on the same day. Additionally, you can enjoy the snow until the end of April, by which time other ski resorts in northern Spain have already finished their ski season.
The Sierra Nevada has a skiing season that stretches from autumn to early May. This extended season allows visitors to enjoy the slopes for a longer period compared to other resorts. The resort hosted the World Alpine Ski Championship in 1996 and the World Cup Ski Finals in 1999, showcasing its world-class facilities.
Thanks to its high altitude and favourable weather conditions, Sierra Nevada offers excellent skiing conditions throughout the season. The resort's modern snow-making machines ensure that there is always plenty of snow on the slopes, even during warmer periods. This makes it an ideal destination for skiers and snowboarders looking for reliable snow coverage.
During the peak season, which typically runs from December to February, the resort is bustling with activity. Skiers and snowboarders of all levels can enjoy the well-groomed runs, while beginners can take advantage of the ski schools and beginner-friendly slopes. The resort also offers a variety of ski passes, including day passes, multi-day passes, and season passes, catering to different needs and budgets.
In addition to the regular skiing season, Sierra Nevada hosts a variety of events and competitions that attract visitors from around the world. These include international ski and snowboard competitions, freestyle events, and family-friendly activities. The resort's lively atmosphere and stunning mountain scenery make it a popular choice for winter sports enthusiasts.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, Sierra Nevada also offers a range of après-ski activities. Visitors can unwind in the resort's spas and wellness centres, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants, or explore the charming nearby villages. The combination of excellent skiing conditions, diverse activities and vibrant nightlife.
Nightlife in Sierra Nevada is vibrant, with a variety of restaurants, clubs, tapas bars, and drinks available next to the runs. For those who can't get enough of the slopes, nocturnal skiing is also an option, allowing you to ski under the stars.
Throughout the skiing season, Sierra Nevada hosts various events and activities, including ski and snowboard competitions, music festivals, and themed parties. These events add to the lively atmosphere and provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Because of the proximity of Sierra Nevada to the city of Granada and Malaga, Sierra Nevada is the ideal place to spend a few days during your winter vacation.
The winter attraction is not the only option proposed by this great mountain of the Iberian Peninsula. Prado Llano Station opens part of its facilities during the summer, giving the opportunity to use the chairlift to watch the fantastic scenery from above.
Sports lovers can enjoy mountain biking, horseback riding, numerous hiking, and climbing events during the summer in Sierra Nevada.
Sierra Nevada is one of Spain's National Parks and a Biosphere Reserve.
The options in Sierra Nevada extend throughout the year. In addition to the ski station, you will find numerous hiking trails, the best known being those listed below:
Vereda de la Estrella
This trail offers beautiful views to the north of the massif.
Complete Tour of the 3000-metre peaks of Sierra Nevada
This route is not recommended for inexperienced hikers as it requires great physical effort.
Ruta Sulayr
A 340 km trail around the mountain, which also has cattle trails.
Check more trails in our hiking guide of Granada.
For an active and adventurous traveller, renting a car at Malaga airport is the perfect way to explore Sierra Nevada at your own pace. The freedom to drive allows you to make the most of your holiday, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the stunning landscapes along the way.
The itinerary from Malaga to Sierra Nevada follows the route already mentioned in our guide to Granada, and once there, you just have to follow the signs that will lead you to Sierra Nevada.
If you don't like to drive, you can book a transfer to Sierra Nevada.
The road route from Malaga to Sierra Nevada will take about 2 hours. In the map below, you can see the itinerary in detail:
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