Things to see in Sierra Nevada National Park
By Jo Williams
Jardín Botánico de La Cortijuela, near the Cerro del Trevenque
in the west of the park, has around 100 plant species that can be
found in the park.
Balneario de Lanjarón is a natural spa. Its waters have
been renowned for their medicinal qualities since 1765.
Tibetan Monastery O Sel Ling was named by the Dalai Lama
as 'the Place of the Clear Light' and, positioning yourself by the
brightly coloured Buddhist stupa at the monastery's entrance that
offers a magnificent view over the Alpujarras, you can appreciate
why. Founded in 1982 it offers retreats to those who are willing
to abide by the monastery's guidelines.
Villages of the Alpujarras in the region that lies between
the Sierra Nevada and the sea. Perched on the steep sides of these
sierras, with their torrential streams and rivers and wooded valleys,
are many beautiful towns and villages. Bubión, Pampaneira and Capileira are an often-visited triumvirate, with tourists attracted by their
magnificent position in the steep and narrow Poqueira gorge. Trevélez offers some of the best cured ham (jamón serrano) in Spain. See
also our page on the Alpujarras.
The eastern villages are much less visited than those in the west,
but are not as attractive. The landscape is drier and more barren.
Láujar de Andarax is one of the most worthwhile villages to see
in the eastern Alpujarras and has a beautiful shady spot 1km northeast
of the village called El Nacimiento, which is the source of the
Andarax river. Here are some waterfalls in a steep-sided valley,
where several walks start. There are also a few restaurants and
a picnic area with barbecue pits.
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