Sierra Nevada is home to the highest mountains in continental Spain — including Mulhacén at 3,479m. It’s both a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a National Park, with snowy peaks, alpine valleys, and epic views that stretch to the Moroccan coast on clear days. Just 40 minutes from Granada, this is one of the few places in the world where you can ski in the morning and hit the beach in the afternoon. It’s a dream for hikers, skiers, cyclists, and stargazers — or anyone who just wants fresh air and mountain energy. This is where Andalucía levels up.
🎿 Skiing in Sierra Nevada
Skiing in Sierra Nevada isn’t the Alps — but it’s better than you think. With over 110km of runs and 21 lifts, it’s the go-to option for anyone living in southern Spain who wants real snow without hopping on a plane. The resort has even hosted Ski World Cup events and the 2017 Freestyle & Snowboard World Championships, proving it’s more than just a sunny mountain.
The setup is well-organised and works for all levels: wide, gentle greens near the village for beginners, loads of fast reds for intermediates, and steep blacks, moguls, and off-piste zones for advanced riders. There’s also a fun Snowpark, plus sometimes night skiing under the lights. While it doesn’t have the charming slope-side chalets of the Alps, the large food court at the bottom of the slopes offers loads of tasty, casual options.
Ski season runs from mid-December to mid-April, with reliable coverage thanks to artificial snow machines. By spring, the snow gets slushy in the afternoons — which makes it perfect for a morning on the mountain and a poolside beer back on the Costa del Sol before sunset.
For more info about Skiing in Sierra Nevada, check out our Skiing in Sierra Nevada Guide.
More things to do
Sierra Nevada isn’t just a ski resort — it’s a full mountain experience. Whether you’re travelling with kids, chasing views, or visiting outside the snow season, there’s plenty to do here that doesn’t require skis or a snowboard.
🎢 Mirlo Blanco – Snow Fun for Non-Skiers
Mirlo Blanco is Sierra Nevada’s family-friendly snow park, perfect for younger kids or anyone who wants a break from the slopes. It includes toboggans, snowbikes, mini rollercoasters, and a tubing track that’s way more fun than it sounds. It’s right near the main lifts in Pradollano and a great option for mixed-ability groups or off-days. Book ahead on weekends — it gets busy when the sun’s out. Read More
🍷 Great Restaurants – Alpine Feels & Spanish Flavours
For a mountain resort, Sierra Nevada’s food scene delivers. Restaurante La Antorcha is a rustic local favourite with wood-fired grills and hearty mountain dishes. Tito Luigi is the classic go-to for Italian — warm, loud, and always packed. For something more atmospheric, La Fondue de Noa leans full Alpine: candlelight, melted cheese, and snow outside the window. Most restaurants are walkable from the main square in Pradollano.
💆 Spas – Recovery with Altitude
Several of the bigger hotels offer proper spa circuits — ideal for recovery after skiing or just avoiding the cold altogether. Hotel Melia Sol y Nieve has one of the best, with thermal pools, saunas, and massage rooms. You don’t need to be a guest to book a session. It’s a great shout for couples, wellness travellers, or parents waiting on kids at ski school.
🥾 Not Just for Winter – Epic Hiking & Mountain Biking in Summer
When the snow melts, Sierra Nevada turns into one of southern Europe’s best high-altitude hiking and biking zones. Top trails include the Vereda de la Estrella (lush valleys, old mines, and river crossings), and the climb to Laguna de las Yeguas, a glacial lake framed by rocky peaks. More serious hikers can summit Mulhacén, the highest peak in mainland Spain (3,479m) — it’s best tackled between June and September.
Lifts operate in summer, giving access to mid-mountain trails and MTB routes. You can also hike or cycle all the way up to Pico Veleta (3,398m), passing one of Europe’s highest observatories — you can’t enter, but it’s epic to see up close. Expect wildflowers, big skies, and far fewer crowds than in winter. Late spring and early autumn are especially beautiful for trekking — cool air, clear views, and golden light.
🏰 Just 40 Minutes from Granada
One of the best things about Sierra Nevada is how close it is to Granada — just a 40-minute drive down the mountain. That means you can spend the morning in the snow and the afternoon wandering the Alhambra or eating tapas in the sun. Ideal for mixed trips, city breaks with a twist, or extending your ski weekend with a dose of culture.
Explore Granada more with our Guide to Granada!
Annual Events in Sierra Nevada 🎉
Sierra Nevada knows how to keep the mountains buzzing — whether it’s ski season, trail season, or party season. These annual events bring energy to the peaks and make the most of every part of the year.
🎿 Ski Season Opening Weekend (Mid-December)
Opening weekend is always a vibe — discounted lift passes, night skiing, live DJs, and the first proper après-ski energy of the season. If the snow hits early, this weekend gets packed with locals, students, and boarders from all over Spain. Read more. (can we add an event – mid weekend in December).
❄️ Sierra Nevada por Todo lo Alto (August)
Held right in Pradollano, this summer mountain music festival brings indie rock, alternative bands, and DJs to the slopes — no snow, just pure high-altitude party energy. Free entry and amazing sunsets make it one of the coolest events in the region. Read More.
🏃 Ultra Sierra Nevada (April)
One of the toughest and most iconic mountain ultras in Spain, with runners covering up to 100km from Granada to the peaks of the Sierra. Expect serious endurance athletes, big support crews, and wild mountain backdrops. It’s a major event on the Spanish trail-running calendar. Read more.
🚵 Sierra Nevada Límite (July)
This high-altitude road race climbs over 4,000m through the Sierra Nevada, finishing in Pradollano. Choose between 147km or 93km routes — both tough, scenic, and seriously rewarding. Held every July, it’s one of Spain’s most iconic Gran Fondos. Read more.
🚴 MTB Downhill Weekends & Bike Park Opening (July–August)
When the lifts switch to summer mode, the mountain becomes a playground for downhill and enduro riders. Look out for official races and freestyle events — often with DJs, food trucks, and local riders throwing down.
Where to Stay in Sierra Nevada – Quick Guide 🛏️
Most people base themselves in Pradollano, the main resort village sitting at 2,100m. Here you’ll find a wide selection of hotels and hostels for all budgets — from spa stays to simple bunk-bed setups. Many properties offer ski storage, on-site gear rental, and wellness facilities, but make sure to book early for weekends and school holidays.
If you’re travelling with friends or staying longer, apartment rentals are a great option — many include balconies, fireplaces, and small kitchens. Just make sure you’re close to the main lifts (some listings are a steep walk away). The best platforms to check are Airbnb, and Nattivus, which has good coverage of Spanish ski apartments. For last-minute deals, local agencies in Granada also post listings directly on resort Facebook groups and WhatsApp boards.
For loads of great hotel recommendations, check out our Guide to the Best Hotels in Sierra Nevada.
When to Go & How to Get There – Timing & Access Made Easy 🚗
🗓️ When to Go
Ski season in Sierra Nevada usually runs from mid-December to mid-April, depending on snow conditions. Peak time is January to early March, when snow coverage is best and the village is buzzing. Late March to April can be slushy by afternoon — but it’s perfect for morning ski sessions followed by poolside hangs back on the coast. Summer season (late May to October) is ideal for hiking, biking, and stargazing, with lift access available on weekends. Shoulder months (May and November) are quiet but unpredictable weather-wise — good for chill trips, less so for sport.
🚗 How to Get There
The closest city is Granada, just 40 minutes by car from the resort. It has a small airport (GRX) with flights from Madrid and Barcelona, or you can fly into Málaga (AGP) and drive 2–2.5 hours. Rental cars are the easiest option, especially for flexibility with gear and timing. There are also direct ski buses from Granada bus station to Pradollano during ski season, usually running 1–2 times daily. Parking at the resort is available but limited — aim to arrive early on weekends or grab accommodation with a private spot.
