Granada villages hold a special place in any Spain travel guide. Over the centuries, they have successfully preserved their old world charm. Indeed, this Andalusian province is one of the richest in the country when it comes to diversity in landscape and climate. Granada is home to valuable treasures just waiting to be discovered. One example of this is the Sierra Nevada National Park, where the highest summits in all of Spain stand tall, alongside the tropical coast where you can enjoy orchards rich in lush fruit trees. To tour the Alpujarra villages is to find a variety of contrasts on offer in addition to monuments, history, culture, and vestiges of man’s existence over thousands of years. Its offering also includes gastronomy, festivities, arts and crafts, and above all the hospitality of its people. Discover the prettiest Granada villages to visit.
From the spectacular beaches of Salobreña to skiing and snow sports at Sierra Nevada, via the wonderful Alpujarra villages, all are a sound option to enjoy a fantastic holiday which will allow you to get to know one of Spain’s most beautiful Andalusian provinces.
Enjoy the most beautiful Granada villages
Pampaneira
Pampaneira, Alpujarras – credito Lucy Left / Shutterstock.com
Pampaneira is one of the three towns that is part of what is called the Barranco de Poqueira. This town is famous for its beautiful architectural organization, which has managed to preserve its Alpujarran tradition of whitewashed houses with flat roofs and a hat-top fireplace. It is also especially recognized for the great variety and quality of its craftsmanship ranging from ceramics, to fabrics such as jarapas (thick and coloured fabric used to make carpets, blankets, bedspreads or curtains).
In Pampaneira are also very famous sources since some of them have mineral-medicinal water, and others, such as Chumpaneira is traditionally said to have matchmaking powers because it is said that anyone who drinks from its waters with intent to marry instantly He has a partner, we leave that to the collective image maker.
Salobreña
Salobreña
Salobreña is much more than sun and beaches, this town of the Costa Tropical is also walks through its historic streets with white houses that serve as pillars to the Arab Castle, the main legacy of the Nasrids from Granada on the Costa Tropical and where one of the most beautiful bathrooms of this era. In addition, this fortification is linked to the urban area through the Paseo de las Flores a spectacular place that circles the rock with the sea as a background.
But this town offers us much more, because only here you can enjoy places as amazing and suggestive as the Fountain, Barrio de la Loma, the Albaicín or the Brocal.
Nívar
Nívar
Nívar is located in the Sierra de Huétor, about 1000 meters above sea level. From your Mirador de Granada you can enjoy a magnificent view of both the city itself and the Sierra Nevada In this town you can practice paragliding, hiking or cycling, as well as being a fabulous point for fans of natural photography. You can also enjoy the rock of San Bartolo an important archaeological site dating from the 7thcentury.
Montefrío
Montefrío
Montefrío is a place that seduces everyone who visits it. In this Granada town you can enjoy the impressive monumental complex that is formed by the Arab fortress and the Church of the Villa. Also worthy of seeing both the Rock of the Gypsies, a beautiful natural area which is accessed from the road leading to Íllora, as well as the various archaeological remains dating from the Middle Neolithic.
Nigüelas
Nigüelas
This locality is located between Granada and Costa Tropical and is the highest locality the Valle de Lecrín, at 931 meters of altitude. Its location is a wonderful viewpoint, from where you can see the whole region. Nigüelas preserves in its urban centre the oldest mill of Spain, now converted into a museum, also from here you can see the romantic garden of the Town Hall and the town hall itself, former palace of the Zayas.
Castril
Castril
Castril de la Peña is located at the foot of a rocky rock, north of the province of Granada, bordering the province of Jaén and the Natural Park of Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas. Its urban centre recalls its Arab past, this is why this town is characterized by its steep lanes and the uniformity of its single-storey houses, with closed and whitewashed facades. Among its attractions include the Peña del Sagrado Corazón and the El Cantón viewpoint.
A curiosity about this town is that since 1997, Castril has a very special link with the Nobel Prize for Literature José Saramago, because he has a great friendship with the Pilar del Río.
Alhama de Granada
Alhama de Granada
Alhama is located in the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park. It has a world-renowned thermal spa dating from Roman times, and today offers innovative treatments against various ailments. Its historic heritage is rich and its old quarter is declared a Historic-Artistic Site, among which the Hospital de la Reina, the Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnación, the fountain locally called Caño Wamba and the House of the Inquisition stand out. In addition, this town is the perfect destination for lovers of hiking because its imposing ravines have been catalogued as a natural monument of Andalucian geological nature.
Alhama has two annexes such as the Sales of Zafarraya and Buenavista.
Albuñuelas
Albuñuelas – Granada
The town is located at the Sierra de Almijara, and thanks to its altitude you can enjoy spectacular views of olive trees and pines, dotted with incredible pits. Albuñuelas is the clear representative of the traditional picture of Andalucian urbanism with narrow streets of whitewashed houses. In its mountains you can enjoy activities as fun as paragliding, canyoning, caving or mountaineering, so there is no excuse to enjoy this enchanting enclave.
Trevélez
Trevélez
You will be able to find Trevélez in the skirt of the Mulhacén, reason why its municipal term is located in the heart of the Natural Park of Sierra Nevada. A very particular fact of this town is that its urban centre, considered one of the highest in the Iberian Peninsula, preserves the traditional architecture of the Alpujarra villages, steep streets, small houses anchored with flat roof, and chimneys with their corresponding hat.
Although it must be said that the true uniqueness of this town lies in its natural and scenic treasure, because here you can find slopes such as Pico del Rey, Siete Lagunas, Cerro Pelao, Vacares, La Alcazaba and even Mulhacén itself.
Guadix
Guadix
It is one of the oldest human settlements in Spain, so we make our own the words of Jean Sermet: “Guadix is a city that should not be described; it must be seen.” And it is that this locality is all monuments since it conserves a wide catalogue of patrimonial elements of historical-artistic character.
Its urban centre has three large well-differentiated areas, the first is the high district that is occupied by the so-called cave houses, the second is the medieval, Renaissance and Baroque era, which highlights the Arab Alcazaba and finally we can find the new Guadix, the result of modern urban development.
Special mention has the wide variety of active leisure activities that can be done here as it goes from fishing, canoeing, hiking or MTB.
Bubión
Bubión
In Alpujarra Granadina you will find some of Grenada’s most beautiful localities. One of them is Bubión, a fascinating town of traditional limewashed houses adorned with flower-pot filled balconies. Among the municipality’s historic monuments is the San Antonio Hermitage and the Nuestra Señora del Rosario Church. In Bubión you will also find interpretation centres such as the Museum of the Alpujarra House and the Museum of Agriculture.
Capileira
Capileira
Berber style white limewashed houses characterise this village. Located at the gateway of the Sierra Nevada, this town has a traditional architecture of limewashed houses and zigzagging streets of flower-filled balconies. It also has numerous monuments that are worth visiting, such as the Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza Parish Church and the House-Museum of Pedro Antonio Alarcón, a great author of written realism. You should also pay a visit to the public washhouses and the Sierra Nevada High Summits Interpretation Centre.
Lanjarón
Lanjarón
Lanjarón is the gateway to Alpujarra Granadina. This locality owes part of its fame to the high quality of its waters, which are used in its hot springs and also sold in bottles. Characters as illustrious as Bertrand Russell and García Lorca enjoyed its medicinal waters. Among the different monuments that form part of this municipality are the ruins of Lanjarón Castle, the Virgen de la Encarnación Church and a variety of hermitages. For nature lovers, we recommend a walk through the Tello Forest full of waterfalls.
Monachil
Monachil
Few places in the world are like this village, a locality which allows you to ski in the Sierra Nevada in the morning and end up having lunch on the beach with temperatures of 22°C. This village is a hiker’s paradise, since the fabulous Los Cahorros mountain pass is nearby, with its impressive waterfalls, stone tunnels and amazing hanging bridge. When it comes to historic heritage, we must mention the Cerro de la Encina settlement, one of the most important in Spain. You should also visit the Padres Agustinos Recoletos Convent, the Encarnación Church and the Santa Rita Sanctuary.
Güéjar Sierra
Güéjar Sierra
Güéjar Sierra is located northwest of the Sierra Nevada Natural Park. We are talking about a mountain village which is divided into three neighbourhoods. It is a locality with pronounced inclines and crystal clear streams, making it perfect for active tourism. The village offers sites and corners of great ecological beauty, archaeological remains and monuments of great value, which have been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Tips and Suggestions for Visiting the Villages of Granada
Visiting the villages of Granada is a wonderful experience, as the province is full of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Below are some tips and suggestions to help you make the most of your visit:
Plan Your Route
- Alpujarras: This group of villages, located on the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada, includes Pampaneira, Bubión, and Capileira. They are known for their Moorish architecture, narrow streets, and whitewashed houses.
- Guadix and Surroundings: Don’t miss the famous cave houses and the cathedral. Nearby, visit La Calahorra, known for its Renaissance castle.
- Montefrío: Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Montefrío boasts the Church of La Encarnación and impressive views from the fortress.
- Alhama de Granada: Known for its thermal baths and its dramatic gorge, this village offers a blend of history and natural beauty.
Transportation
- Car: Renting a car is the best option for moving between the villages with flexibility. The roads are often narrow and winding, especially in the Alpujarra, so drive carefully.
- Public Transportation: Some bus routes connect the main villages, but schedules can be limited, so plan accordingly.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring and Autumn: These are the ideal seasons to visit, with mild weather and landscapes at their most beautiful.
- Summer: It can be hot, especially in the lower areas, but the mountain villages offer cooler temperatures.
- Winter: If you enjoy winter sports, Sierra Nevada is an excellent destination, but be sure to check road conditions before traveling.
Culture and Traditions
- Local Festivals: Each village has its own festivals, such as Semana Santa in Almuñécar or Día de la Cruz in some Alpujarra villages. Participating in these celebrations will give you a deeper understanding of the local culture.
- Craftsmanship: The villages of Granada are renowned for their craftsmanship, particularly in ceramics, textiles, and leather. Consider purchasing a handmade souvenir to take home.
Gastronomy
- Typical Dishes: Try dishes like “plato alpujarreño” (eggs, potatoes, ham, and blood sausage), “olla de San Antón,” or tapas, which are generally generous throughout the province.
- Local Wines: The region is known for its growing production of wines, particularly those from the Contraviesa area, which are well worth tasting.
Hiking and Nature
- Hiking Routes: The Alpujarras and Sierra Nevada offer numerous hiking routes for all levels. The Barranco de Poqueira route is particularly popular.
- Natural Parks: In addition to Sierra Nevada, consider visiting the Natural Park of the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama for more outdoor adventures.
Respect for the Environment
- Conservation: The villages of Granada are located in protected areas, so it’s important to respect the natural and cultural environment. Don’t leave trash behind, and follow local guidelines to help preserve these beautiful areas.
Interacting with Locals
- Language: While Spanish is the primary language, many residents speak some English, especially in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic phrases in Spanish will help you connect more easily with the locals.
- Friendliness: The people of Granada are generally very friendly and hospitable. Don’t hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations.
Accommodation
- Rural Houses: Staying in a rural house is an excellent option for enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty of the area.
- Paradores: For a more luxurious experience, consider staying in one of the paradores, which are often located in historic buildings.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the cultural and natural richness that the villages of Granada have to offer. Have a wonderful trip!
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WHERE TO STAY
Olée Nerja Holiday Rentals
To enjoy the most beautiful villages of the province of Granada nothing better than trusting Fuerte Hoteles. The Olée Holiday Rentals Apartments are located in a perfect enclave on the eastern Costa del Sol, between Torrox and Nerja, typical Andalucian villages with the best climate in all of Europe. This accommodation offers you tranquillity while leaving at your disposal a large number of activities and places to visit. The complex has air conditioning, a spacious living area with satellite TV and a modern kitchen equipped with an oven, dishwasher, washing machine and dryer. Some have a terrace and wonderful views of the Mediterranean Sea.