This protected area in southern Spain includes mainland's highest peak, Mulhacén (3,479m), and rare mountain goats roaming among ancient Arabic irrigation channels.
Sierra Nevada National Park covers 85,883 hectares in Granada and Almería provinces, southern Spain. You can climb Mount Mulhacén at 3,479m, mainland Spain's highest peak, or spot Spanish ibex leaping between rocks on steep mountain faces. The park's high-altitude environment supports rare plants like the snow star, which grows only in these mountains. Visit the white-walled villages of Alpujarra on the southern slopes, or ski at Europe's southernmost resort on the northern side.
The Sierra Nevada contains more than 20 peaks above 3,000 meters. Mount Mulhacén reaches 3,479 meters, while Veleta rises to 3,396 meters and Alcazaba to 3,371 meters. As you climb higher, you'll pass through distinct vegetation zones: oak forests at lower levels transition to rocky areas with small, hardy plants near the summits. Snow blankets the upper slopes from November through May, making this Spain's second-largest ski area after the Pyrenees.
The park's 2,100 plant species include 60 that exist nowhere else. Look for the snow star (Plantago nivalis) growing between rocks above 2,500 meters. Spanish ibex climb the steep slopes, while golden eagles nest in high cliffs. You might spot wild boar in the forests, or see martens and badgers at dawn and dusk. The park's butterfly population includes mountain-specific species like the Nevada blue and Sierra Nevada brown.
You can choose from 25 marked trails ranging from valley walks to summit climbs. The Sulayr trail forms a 300-kilometer loop around the mountains, divided into 19 day-sections. To climb Mulhacén, start from either Capileira or Trevélez village - both routes lead to mountain refuges where you can sleep overnight. The Vereda de la Estrella Loop takes 6-8 hours to complete its 22.5 kilometers and 1,000-meter ascent, with views of the park's three highest peaks.
The Alpujarra region's villages line the southern mountain slopes. In Barranco del Poqueira gorge, walk through Bubión, Capileira, and Pampaneira to see traditional flat-roofed houses built into the hillsides. At 1,476 meters, Trevélez is known for its air-dried hams, which cure slowly in the cool mountain air. Each village has narrow streets designed to provide shade during hot summers.
Drive between different areas of the park or take regular buses from Granada to Sierra Nevada town and the Alpujarra villages. The mountain weather shifts quickly - temperatures can drop 15°C between valley and peak. Bring warm layers and sun protection year-round. You can stay in staffed mountain refuges (book ahead in summer), and there are six basic shelters for emergency use. Check trail conditions at park offices before hiking between November and May.
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