Sierra Nevada (Spain)

Sierra Nevada is a high mountain range in Andalusia in southern Spain, immediately southeast of the city of Granada, and contains the highest peaks on the Iberian Peninsula. The range includes peaks above 3,300 metres and supports both alpine ecosystems and a developed ski area.

Key visitor highlights are high-altitude hiking, the ski resort at Pradollano and the summits Mulhacén (3,479 metres) and Veleta (around 3,398 metres), which offer extensive views over Andalusia and the Mediterranean. The southern slopes of the range descend toward the Alpujarras, a region of steep terraces and white villages.

The Sierra Nevada has a long history of pastoralism and local mountain agriculture; in the 20th century recreational skiing infrastructure was developed and the area now supports both winter sports and summer trekking. Conservation measures protect endemic flora and the alpine habitats at high elevation.

Geographically the range lies about 30 kilometres southeast of Granada, forming a prominent highland barrier in inland Andalusia and separating the Mediterranean coast from interior plains.

• Best times to visit: Ski season generally runs from December to April, while summer hiking and alpine walking are best from June to September when snow has melted on the main routes.
• High-altitude road access: The mountain road up toward Veleta provides high-altitude viewpoints and one of the highest paved approaches in Spain, used for panoramic driving and cycling access.

What to See #

• Mulhacén: The peninsula's highest summit at 3,479 metres and the tallest point on mainland Spain, attracting mountaineers and long-distance walkers.
• Veleta: A high peak at approximately 3,398 metres with an access road and viewpoints close to the summit area, popular with visitors for panoramic views.
• Pradollano ski area: The principal ski resort area around Pradollano, with winter lift infrastructure and slopes used from winter into spring.