The region of mountain villages known as Las Alpujarras clings to the southern flanks of the Sierra Nevada, cloven by deep, sheltered valleys and gorges which run down towards the Mediterranean. The Alpujarra, as it is popularly known, in the singular, is famous throughout Spain because of its unique mini-ecology. Its terraced farmlands are constantly watered by the melting snow from above, constituting a high-altitude oasis of greenery which stands in dramatic contrast to the arid foothills below. This is ideal hiking terrain for adventurous travellers, provided you take along a tent and well-padded sleeping bags - the average altitude is 4,000 feet above sea level.
The cultural interest of the region lies in its fifty-odd villages, which were the last stronghold of the Spanish Muslims, or Moors. Soon after the Castillians took Granada in 1492, all the city´s Moors were forced to convert to Christianity. Those who refused took to the hills, settling in this remote, inaccessible area. Constant pressure from the Christians led to a bloody uprising, the Morisco Rebellion of 1568, which was ruthlessly crushed out, with the public execution of the leader, Ben Humeya, in the main square of Granada. Soon followed a royal decree expelling from the Kingdom of Granada all people of Arab descent, since the "new Christians", as the converts were called, were all suspected of being ¨crypto-Muslims¨ in secret...
The villages of the Alpujarra were resettled with some 12,000 Christian families brought by King Philip II from Galicia and Asturias in north-western Spain. However, these unique hamlets have retained their traditional Berber architecture - terraced clusters of grey-white box-shaped houses with flat clay roofs - which is still common in the Rif and Atlas mountains of Morocco. Perhaps the most picturesque villages are the famous trio which cling, one close above the other, to the slopes of the Poqueira Valley, where red peppers and tomatoes are still set out to dry on the flat clay roofs, among the tall round chimney pots. Pampaneira, at the bottom, bustles with crafts shops and restaurants, as does Bubión, half way up the slope, with its massive square church tower standing on a plaza of rough paving stones. But to savour the authentic Alpujarra, go to Capileira at the top of the valley - the name is an Arabic derivation of the Latin word for head or top - and walk down from the road into the lower streets of the village, where the rocky streets, overhanging passageways and sagging, stone houses have still not been remodelled and prettified for contemporary living...
If you stray from the beaten path, you will be sure to catch sight of the region´s abundant wild life, such as the Cabra Hispanica, a mountain goat which roams the mountains in herds and is often seen standing on pinnacles, silhouetted against the sky. But as soon as it flairs the scent of man it will bound up the steepest slopes with amazing speed... The Alpujarra is also famous for its excellent birdwatching - the colourful Hoopoe with its stark, haunting cry, is a common sight. The capital of the region is Órgiva, on the lowlands, and the village of Trevélez - famous throughout Spain for its superb mountain hams, or jamón serrano - is, at over 4,840 feet above sea level, the highest village in Europe, overhanging a fast-flowing river and plunging mountain valley.
South from Granada
One of the many great travel books written about Spain is devoted to the Alpujarra - Gerald BrenanwroteSouth From Granada, which recounts the adventures of a young Britisher who, after serving in World War I, walked through Andalucia in search of a cheap place to live and write. He discovered the tiny village of Yégen, where he rebuilt a ruined house (now marked with a plaque in his memory) and lodged some of his friends of the famous Bloomsbury group of London. In his book - written in retrospect, long after he became a well-known journalist - Brenan describes the difficulties of getting such highly-strung aesthetes as Virginia Woolf and Lytton Strachey up the river gorges on mule back, as well as his bucolic existence among the local peasants.
Laroles is the largest of four villages that make up the municipal district of Nevada. It sits in between the rivers Bayárcal and La Ragua and is surrounded by lush chestnut groves. Within its… More →
Ugíjar consists of five areas: Ugíjar, Cherín, Jorairátar, Los Montoros and Las Canteras. Granada poet Pedro Antonio de Alarcón once described Ugíjar as “aristocrática” (aristocratic). In Ugíjar,… More →
Turón is a mountain village where visitors can enjoy rich gastronomy as well as cultural activities, and spectacular scenery. The origins of the village are in the Roman era; however, Neolithic… More →
Torvizcón is the largest town in the Contraviesa, the part of the Alpujarras between the Sierra Nevada and the sea. The village’s traditional whitewashed houses are silhouetted against the Sierra… More →
One of the most striking features of this Granada village is its privileged location, nestled between la Sierra de la Contraviesa and the Mediterranean Sea, making it the perfect destination for… More →
This village, located in the Sierra Nevada National Park, has an important factor which distinguishes it from all the other Alpujarra villages: its altitude. This factor allows visitors to enjoy… More →
The tiny hamlet of Rubite is an ideal destination for nature lovers, with the perfect combination of the sierra together with both sandy and rocky beaches. Situated in the shadow of La Maroma, the… More →
Pórtugos is truly a gift from nature: the village is the source of natural mineral waters with a high iron content; red in colour, they descend in a waterfall called La Fuente Agria. This waters… More →
The area of Nevada is the highest and most eastern-wards in the Alpujarra, and offers amazing natural landscapes. Here, you'll have the opportunity to see wild goats, one of the animals that best… More →
The municipality of Murtas is situated at more than 1,500m, making it one of the best vantage points for viewing the whole area - from the peaks of Sierra Nevada until the Mediterranean coast. The… More →
This village is a great combination of the beautiful sierra and the beach, which is just a few minutes away. As a result, visitors to Lújar can experience the mountains and the sea on the same day… More →
Lobras is a small village with its distinctive own personality. It feels as if time has stood still when you walk along its streets and visit its monuments. The location also means that visitors… More →
The area of La Tahá was part of the Taha de Ferreira, one of 14 such areas established during the Nasrid occupation (they were the Moorish dynasty who built the Alhambra). The tahas were… More →
Situated among chestnut forests, in the highest region of the Alpujarra, Juviles is a small village with links to the past and an air of tranquillity. The most important archaeological remains… More →
Visitors to Cástaras might think that in this village, time has stood still. Its privileged location offers impressive panoramic views over the alpujarra granadina. The village is of Arabic origin… More →
Visitors looking for tranquillity and the opportunity to spend a few days relaxing will find Carataunas the perfect destination. It is the smallest village in the whole of the Alpujarra region;… More →
This village, located in the Alpujarra region, is home to some beautiful natural monuments. The village itself has kept the Arabic influence alive, with narrow streets, whitewashed houses and flat… More →
Cádiar is a completely mountainous village that has preserved it´s Morisco feel and character. It was formed by three neighbourhoods: Cádiar, Narila and Yátor, and is situated between Sierra… More →
Busquístar is located in a privileged natural environment, next to the ravine formed by the Trévelez River and inside the Sierra Nevada national park. It was previously known as el paraíso… More →
The village of Bérchules is made up of two smaller areas: Bérchules and Alcútar. The village is largely a working orchard, served by many different water sources. The sources of the river… More →
In this small village time appears to have stood still. The land and streets are just as they were during the Muslim dynasty, when the village first began. The narrow, steep streets and typically… More →
This village in Granada province has a lot to offer visitors. It is the perfect place to enjoy nature, a rich cultural history and the Mediterranean Sea, which is less than 20km away. The origins… More →
Most well-known for its mouth-watering cured ham, jamón serrano, the village of Trevélez is the highest in mainland Spain, at 1,476m. Its clear mountain air is ideal for drying the sweet-tasting… More →
Halfway between Capileira and Pampaneira in the Poqueira gorge is the sleepy village of Bubión, which like its neighbours is surrounded by magnificent views of the often snow-capped Sierra Nevada… More →
The highest of the three villages in the Barranco de Poqueira, at 1,436m, Capileira is a good base for walking in the gorge itself or up to the Sierra Nevada. Its twisting, steep streets are… More →
Around 50 km from Granada city and the first town you come to in the Western Alpujarras, Lanjarón is considered the gateway to the region. It is famous for its mineral water which is sold… More →
One of a trio of popular and picturesque whitewashed villages, Pampaneira – like its neighbours Bubión and Capileira – hugs the steep slopes of a lush river gorge, the Barranco de Poqueira.… More →
In the fertile valley of the Guadalfeo river is the largest town of the western Alpujarras, Órgiva. At 450m, Órgiva has a milder climate than many other places in the Alpujarras and is surrounded… More →
The village's Moros y los Cristianos, a popular festival dating from the 16th century, is one of the most famous in Spain. As one of the last regio ns to harbour the Moors, the Alpujarras is one… More →
The British writer Gerald Brenan immortalised Yegen in his book South from Granada, published in 1957. Today, you can see his former house, marked by a plaque, just off the main square, while… More →
The village of Alpujarra de la Sierra is a must-see destination for students of the life and work of Gerald Brenan. The Hispanics writer originally from England, lived in the Yegen area of the… More →
Hotel Rural Alfajía de Antonio is located 100 metres from Calvary Square in Capileira, just outside the Sierra Nevada National Park. It offers traditional-style rooms with central heating and a TV.
Offering a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, El Cercado is set in Andalusia’s beautiful Alpujarras Mountains. Located in Bérchules, the hotel features free Wi-Fi and a spa and wellness centre available for a surcharge
Located in the Andalusian spa town of Lanjarón, Hotel Alcadima offers impressive views over the Salao Valley. This typical country house has indoor and outdoor pools and a sauna.
Located in Bubión, Casa De La Ermita provides accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
The country house with a patio and mountain views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a bidet.
Hotel Villa de Bubión is set in the southern slope of Sierra Nevada National Park, by the Poqueira Gorge. It offers a seasonal outdoor pool and free WiFi in public areas.
This complex is located in the village of Bubión in the Alpujarra, 2 hours' drive away from Sierra Nevada Ski Resort. It offers impressive mountain views.
Casa Angel is situated in Bubión, a village on the GR7 footpath in the Sierra Nevada National Park. It offers fully-equipped rustic-style apartments with views over the Poqueira gorge.
Located in Granada’s Alpujarra region, Cortijo en Bubion "Casa Ibero" Slow features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and gardens overlooking Barranco Poqueira and Sierra Nevada. It offers rustic accommodation with free Wi-Fi.
Hotel Rural de Poqueira is located in Capileira, in the heart of Sierra Nevada National Park, which has been declared Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. It offers a seasonal outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi.
Cortijo Catifalarga Alpujarra is set 1 km outside Capiliera, in the Alpujarra region and within Sierra Nevada National Park. Offering views of the Poquiera Canyon and the Sierra Lújar mountains, it is set in a restored farmhouse with an outdoor swimming pool.
Located in Capileira, Hostal Rural Poqueira offers great views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Poqueira Gorge. There is a garden with an outdoor pool and a charming summer terrace.
The rooms at the Poqueira feature free WiFi, a TV and a private bathroom. The private balcony offers views of the town and Poqueira Gorge.
This rural hotel offers mountain views, a seasonal outdoor pool and traditional restaurant. It is situated in the charming village of Capileira, on the edge of the Sierra Nevada National Park.
Hotel Rural Alfajía de Antonio is located 100 metres from Calvary Square in Capileira, just outside the Sierra Nevada National Park. It offers traditional-style rooms with central heating and a TV.
Casa Amaranta is set in Capileira. This country house offers a tour desk and free WiFi.
The country house comes with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with mountain views.
Situated in Capileira in the Andalucía region, Alojamiento Rural Cuatro Estaciones has a terrace. Guests benefit from a balcony and a barbecue.
The country house has 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with mountain views.
Situated in Capileira in the Andalucía region, Casa La Fragua has a terrace. This country house features a tour desk and free WiFi.
The country house has 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with mountain views.
In quiet and beautiful natural surroundings, the Finca Los Llanos is located in the heart of the Alpujarras, on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Offering impressive views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Hotel Central is located in Lanjarón. The hotel offers a children’s playground and free Wifi in public areas.
Air-conditioned rooms include a TV and a fridge. They each have a private bathroom with free toiletries.
Located in Andalusia's Lanjarón, this hotel has bedrooms with complete en-suite bathrooms and a restaurant serving tasty, homemade cuisine. Explore the Sierra Nevada and daytrip to the seaside.
Located in Lanjarón, Hotel Balneario de Lanjarón is less than 20 km from Sierra Nevada National Park and overlooks the Alpujarras Mountains. Set in gardens, it features a health spa and a buffet restaurant.
Nuevo Manolete is located in Lanjarón, a town known for its natural springs. Easily accessible from the A44 Motorway, it offers air-conditioned rooms with a TV and a private bathroom.
Featuring accommodation with a private pool, city view and a terrace, Casa Rural La Encina 2 is located in Lanjarón. The property is 32 km from La Herradura, and complimentary private parking is provided.
Located in the Andalusian spa town of Lanjarón, Hotel Alcadima offers impressive views over the Salao Valley. This typical country house has indoor and outdoor pools and a sauna.
Offering free WiFi, a sun terrace with a swimming pool, shared lounge and garden, Kaliyoga Retreats is set in Órgiva. Guests can enjoy garden views.
All rooms are complete with a private bathroom and air conditioning, and some rooms come with a patio. At the resort all rooms are equipped with bed linen and towels.
Situated in Órgiva in the Andalucía region, Finca Cecilio has a patio and garden views. The accommodation is 36 km from Motril, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.
This country house comes with a dining area, a flat-screen TV, a DVD player and a kitchen with a microwave.
Featuring a shared garden and a terrace with mountain views, La Granada is located in Órgiva, in the Alpujarra region. The property offers houses and apartments in a traditional Andalusian country house.
Cortijo Puerta Casas Rurales is located 2 km from Orgiva, in Andalusia’s Alpujarra Mountains. All its rustic villas have a fireplace and private terrace with barbecue facilities. Most have a seasonal outdoor pool.
Boasting accommodation with a private pool, garden view and a balcony, Caserio El Olivo is set in Órgiva. The air-conditioned accommodation is 34 km from La Herradura, and guests benefit from private parking available on site and free WiFi.
Hotel Mirasol offers impressive views of the Alpujarra Mountains from its setting just 50 metres from the centre of Órgiva. It features accommodation with air conditioning and TVs.
The Mirasol has simply decorated rooms with marble floors. Each room has a private bathroom and is heated.
Hotel Taray Botanico has a restaurant, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a bar and garden in Órgiva. This 3-star hotel offers room service and a concierge service. There is a sun terrace and guests can make use of free WiFi and free private parking.
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a shared pool, mountain view and a terrace, Casa Rural Cortijo El Potro is a holiday home situated in Órgiva. Guests have access to free WiFi.
Certain units include a seating area to relax in after a busy day. Some units feature views of the mountain or city. All rooms are fitted with a shared bathroom. Ananda's Mundo features free WiFi .
Set in Órgiva, 32 km from La Herradura, Rincón de Jaramuza offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool and free WiFi.
Fitted with a patio, the units offer air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. There is a seating and a dining area in all units.
Set in Sierra Nevada National Park, Estrella de las Nieves offers fantastic views of the Barranco de Poqueira Gorge. It features an outdoor swimming pool and air-conditioned rooms with private balconies.
Situated in Sierra Nevada Natural Park, 7 hours walk from Mulhacen Mountain, Refugio Alpujarra Alta features a sun terrace with mountain views and free WiFi.
Private and shared rooms include bed linen and individual lockers. Bathrooms are shared.
Situated in Trevélez and with Mulhacen Mountain reachable within 40 km, Hotel Rural Pepe Alvarez features a bar, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a shared lounge. The property provides mountain views and a terrace.
With garden views, viviendas Rurales Casa Fermina is situated in Trevélez and has accommodation with a kitchen. Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the property.
Hotel La Fragua I is located high up in Granada’s Alpujarra Mountains, in the Sierra Nevada National Park. It offers free WiFi in public areas.
Set in a typical Andalusian town house, the Fragua’s country-style rooms feature tiled floors and a flat-screen TV. Each heated room has a private balcony and a bathroom with amenities.
Located in the Sierra Nevada Nature Reserve, La Fragua II features an outdoor pool with stunning views over the surrounding mountains. It offers a restaurant and free Wi-Fi zone.
Only 4 km from the river, Casa Mamica Rosario, is located in the village of Yegen, in Alpujarra de la Sierra. The semi-detached country house comes with a sun terrace and offers views of the Mount Gador.
