Sierra Nevada Road Trip

The Sierra Nevada Road Trip is an unforgettable experience that takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Spain. Starting in Granada, the 224 km route will take you through the towns of Guadix and Capileira, before ending in Salobrena. Along the way, you will be able to witness the stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and its lush valleys. The best time to take this road trip is during the spring or summer, when the weather is most pleasant. The roads are in good condition, although they can be curvy and narrow in some sections. Please be aware that the route may be closed due to weather conditions during certain times of the year. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget. You can expect to complete the journey in one day, while still having plenty of time to take in the scenery and make some amazing memories.

Granada in Spain is the perfect starting point for a road trip along the Sierra Nevada. Located in the center of the country, Granada is known for its historical beauty and culture. With its rich heritage, there is plenty to explore in this city. Start your journey by exploring the historic Alhambra, a palatial complex with beautiful Moorish architecture. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets of the Albayzin district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Granada Cathedral, a 16th century Baroque-style building that is steeped in history. The stunning Mirador de San Nicolas offers incredible views of the city, as well as of the Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance. If you are traveling to Granada by air, the closest international airport is Granada Airport (GRX), located about 12km outside of the city center. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to explore Granada and the surrounding areas on your own schedule. Granada is the perfect starting point for the Sierra Nevada Road Trip, a journey through some of Spain’s most beautiful landscapes. With its historical monuments, stunning views, and easy access to car rentals, Granada is the ideal destination to set off on your journey.

Embark on a thrilling road trip from Granada to Guadix! This 53 km journey will take you less than an hour and will give you the opportunity to explore some of the most interesting places in Spain. Start your journey in Granada, where you can visit the famous Alhambra Palace, a Moorish citadel with beautiful gardens and courtyards. You can also take a stroll through the winding streets of the Albayzín, a picturesque old town with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Continue your journey to Guadix, where you can explore the ancient city centre and visit the Church of San Bartolomé. You can also explore the Cave Houses of Guadix, unique dwellings carved into the soft rock of the hillside. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on a scenic road trip from Guadix to Capileira, a 118 km journey that will take you less than 4 hours. Start your journey by exploring the beauty of Guadix's historic centre and the impressive Baroque-style Cathedral. Then, drive to the nearby Sierra Nevada National Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and lush forests. After that, make your way to the picturesque village of Capileira, where you can explore its cobbled streets and admire its traditional architecture. Be aware that some sections of the route may be inaccessible to cars with camper trailers, and some sections may be closed seasonally. You will also encounter steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage.

Embark on a fantastic road trip from Capileira to Salobrena, a 53 km journey that can be completed in less than an hour. Along the way, you will be treated to stunning views as you drive through winding roads and narrow passes. Keep your eyes open for some of the most interesting places to visit, such as Capileira's historic church, the Poqueira Gorge and the ruins of the Moorish castle in Salobrena. Be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants and campsites, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, hop in the car and get ready for an unforgettable road trip from Capileira to Salobrena!

The beautiful town of Salobrena, located in the Spanish province of Granada, is the perfect ending point for the Sierra Nevada Road Trip. This stunning town is built on the slopes of a rocky headland, giving it breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the imposing Sierra Nevada mountain range. Salobrena is an ideal destination for history lovers due to its Moorish castle, which dates back to the 10th century. The castle is located on a rocky hill and is surrounded by a wall that encircles the old town. The castle also overlooks a large beach that is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. For those who enjoy nature, Salobrena is surrounded by stunning mountains and forests. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, while the nearby Sierra Nevada National Park offers a range of activities, including skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. In addition to its natural beauty, Salobrena has a vibrant cultural scene. The town has numerous art galleries, cafes, and restaurants, and its old town is filled with charming cobblestone streets and historical buildings. For those taking the Sierra Nevada Road Trip, Salobrena is easily accessible by car. The closest international airport is Malaga Airport (AGP), which is about an hour and a half away by car. In conclusion, Salobrena is the perfect ending point for the Sierra Nevada Road Trip. With its stunning views, historical castle, and range of cultural and outdoor activities, Salobrena has something to offer everyone.

Before you set off

Embark on the Sierra Nevada Road Trip in Spain for an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Andalusia. This journey spans approximately 224 km, connecting the historic city of Granada to the coastal town of Salobreña. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which is home to mainland Spain's highest peak, Mulhacén, standing at 3,479 meters above sea level.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Granada: A city steeped in history, home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Alhambra Palace, a stunning example of Moorish architecture, and the verdant Generalife Gardens, which once served as a retreat for Nasrid kings.
• Guadix: Renowned for its unique cave dwellings, where people continue to live today, offering a glimpse into traditional troglodyte life. Don't miss the imposing Cathedral of Guadix, a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque architecture.
• Capileira: This charming village is nestled in the Poqueira Gorge and serves as a gateway to the Sierra Nevada National Park, making it a perfect starting point for hikers and nature lovers.
• Salobreña: End your Trip in this picturesque coastal town, where you can explore the remains of a Moorish castle and relax on Mediterranean beaches with crystal-clear waters.

Best Time to Go:

The most favorable times for this Road Trip are spring, when the mountain slopes are lush with greenery, and summer, when the warm weather is ideal for enjoying both the mountains and the beaches. However, the region is also known for its skiing season, which typically runs from late November to early May, offering a different perspective of the Sierra Nevada's beauty.

Potential Risks:

The mountain Roads can be challenging, with curvy and narrow stretches that require careful navigation. Seasonal weather conditions may lead to route closures, particularly in winter when snow and ice are common at higher elevations.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The route offers opportunities to indulge in Andalusian cuisine, with local specialties such as jamón serrano (cured ham) from Trevélez, one of the highest villages in Spain.
• The Sierra Nevada is a biodiversity hotspot, with several endemic plant species found nowhere else on Earth.
• The region has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from the Romans, Moors, and Christians, evident in the architecture and local traditions.

A good choice for:

The Sierra Nevada Road Trip invites travelers to immerse themselves in the natural splendor, historical wonders, and cultural richness of southern Spain. Whether you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking a Scenic Drive, this Road Trip offers an array of experiences set against some of the most dramatic landscapes in Spain.