Holiday in Sierra Nevada
Area in Spain — tips, highlights & best time to visit 🇪🇸
Country
Spain
Type
Area
Best time to travel
Ski: December–April, Hiking: June–October
Budget/day
60–100 €
Getting there from Germany
Flight to Granada or Málaga, then rental car or bus to the ski resort (about 45 min from Granada).
Deals for Sierra Nevada:
What makes Sierra Nevada special as a destination?
The Sierra Nevada in Andalusia is the southernmost ski resort in Europe and is home to Mulhacén (3,482 m), the highest mountain on the Spanish mainland. The mountain range extends over 80 kilometers and forms a dramatic contrast to the Mediterranean Andalusia at its feet. The ski resort of Pradollano is located at altitudes of 2,100 to 3,300 meters and offers over 100 kilometers of slopes — where else can you ski in the morning and enjoy a Café con Leche under palm trees in Granada in the afternoon? The Sierra Nevada National Park (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1986) is the most biodiverse mountain range in Europe: Over 2,100 plant species, of which 80 are endemic, and rare animals such as the ibex thrive at various altitudes. In summer, the high plateaus transform into blooming alpine meadows, and hikes to the summit of Mulhacén reward with panoramic views extending to North Africa on clear days. On the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada lie the Alpujarras — a chain of white mountain villages with North African flair, which were once the last refuge of the Moors after the fall of Granada. Pampaneira, Bubión, and Capileira, with their flat roofs, terraced gardens, and irrigation channels from the Moorish era, are both a hiking paradise and a cultural gem. The Alpujarras are famous for Jamón Serrano, goat cheese, and handwoven carpets in the traditional Jarapas style.
What are the top highlights in Sierra Nevada?
The top highlights in Sierra Nevada include Mulhacén, Sierra Nevada Ski Resort, Las Alpujarras, Vereda de la Estrella, Sulayr Long-Distance Trail.
The places you absolutely must not miss.
Mulhacén
Climbing the highest mountain on the Spanish mainland (3,482 m) is possible in summer without climbing gear – the view extends to Africa.
Sierra Nevada Ski Resort
With 110 km of slopes and a season from November to April, it is the sunniest ski resort in Europe – often with views of the Mediterranean.
Las Alpujarras
The white mountain villages of Pampaneira, Bubión, and Capileira on the southern slopes offer Berber architecture and a vibrant handicraft scene.
Vereda de la Estrella
The spectacular hike along an old mining path offers views of the highest peaks of the Sierra Nevada.
Sulayr Long-Distance Trail
The 300 km circular route around the Sierra Nevada is one of the longest long-distance trails in Spain.
Hotels in Sierra Nevada
Compare thousands of hotels, apartments and resorts on Expedia – with price guarantee, free cancellation and reward points.
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Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen
Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie
When is the best time to visit Sierra Nevada?
The best time to visit Sierra Nevada is Ski: December–April, Hiking: June–October. Pleasant in the mountains (15–25 °C), hot in the valleys In winter: Cold with snow from 2,000 m, sunny (skiing in sunshine!)
Recommended travel time
Ski: December–April, Hiking: June–October
Summer
Pleasant in the mountains (15–25 °C), hot in the valleys
Winter
Cold with snow from 2,000 m, sunny (skiing in sunshine!)
How much does a holiday in Sierra Nevada cost?
Budget travellers: 30–50 €/day, mid-range: 60–100 €/day, luxury: 140–300 €/day.
Average costs per person per day
Budget
30–50 €
Hostel, Street food, Public transport
Mid-range
60–100 €
Hotel, Restaurant, Excursions
Luxury
140–300 €
Boutique hotel, Fine dining
How do I get from Germany to Sierra Nevada?
Flight to Granada or Málaga, then rental car or bus to the ski resort (about 45 min from Granada).
Book a package holiday to Sierra Nevada
Compare thousands of package holidays to Sierra Nevada and find the best deals with flight & hotel.
Compare package holidays nowWhat travel tips are there for Sierra Nevada?
Insider knowledge that makes your holiday better.
Ski and beach on the same day: Skiing in the Sierra Nevada in the morning, followed by a beach walk in Almuñécar in the afternoon.
The Alpujarras villages are perfect for 2–3 days – hiking, trying local ham, and enjoying the slow life.
The ascent to Mulhacén is long (about 8–10 hours round trip) – an overnight stay in the mountain hut is recommended.
The ski season often lasts until the end of April – don't forget sun protection, as UV radiation is strong.
In the Alpujarras, be sure to try Jamón Trevélez – the highest ham in Europe is air-dried here.
What should you eat in Sierra Nevada?
Typical specialities in Sierra Nevada: Plato Alpujarreño, Jamón de Trevélez, Migas, Olla de San Antón, Choto al Ajillo, Vino de la Contraviesa.
These specialties you must try!
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