Granada archivos - VOLARE MAGAZINE

Between the peaks of Sierra Nevada and the Mediterranean, Granada’s Alpujarra is a land of ravines, terraces and whitewashed villages clinging to the hillsides. Its geography has also shaped a distinctive cuisine.

Hams cured in the mountain air, charcuterie, cheeses, honey, hearty dishes and wines made from high-altitude vineyards. Following the region through its flavours is a great excuse to connect villages, producers and landscapes, from the Poqueira Gorge to Trevélez and the wine-growing slopes of the Contraviesa. If you already know the more active side of this area —Volare has previously explored some of the best nature escapes from Granada— this time we suggest discovering it in a different way: with an appetite.

First stop: Lanjarón, the gateway to the Alpujarra

Around 45 kilometres from Granada, Lanjarón is an excellent first stop before heading deeper into the Alpujarra. Known for its mineral-medicinal waters and spa tradition, the town also marks the beginning of a landscape where every bend in the road seems to take you a little farther from the city. Water has been part of local identity here for centuries. You can stroll among its fountains, visit its historic spa —which uses water from six springs— or try something rather more unexpected: a tasting of mineral-medicinal waters, comparing water from different springs and their characteristics. After all, if this trip includes wine and ham tastings, why not a water tasting too?

Lanjarón’s relationship with water has even become part of its celebrations: every June it holds its popular Water and Ham Festival, a combination that sums up the town’s character rather well. And for those who prefer to slow the pace, there is always the option of spending a few hours at the spa before continuing towards the mountain villages.

Round off the stop with some typical local products: bread, olive oil, cheeses, honey, almonds, charcuterie and sweets, still found in small shops and local pantries.

Pampaneira, Bubión and Capileira: sitting down to eat in the Poqueira Gorge

The road continues to one of the region’s most recognisable landscapes: the Poqueira Gorge, where Pampaneira, Bubión and Capileira rise one above the other on the mountainside. Whitewashed houses, flat roofs, tinaos, chimneys and irrigation channels create such distinctive architecture that simply walking between the villages is worth the trip. But make sure to leave room for lunch.

Here you really should try the famous plato alpujarreño, perhaps the best summary of local mountain cooking: patatas a lo pobre, egg, ham, chorizo and morcilla, with small variations depending on the restaurant. It is certainly not a light lunch, but nor is it meant to be.

Around this dish is a whole repertoire of traditional cooking: migas, soups, stews, meats, charcuterie and slow-cooked dishes, particularly tempting when temperatures drop. These flavours connect directly with the mountain cuisine you also encounter when exploring Sierra Nevada, although here the setting is much more rural.

Trevélez: the village where ham is part of the landscape

If there is one product inseparable from the Alpujarra, it is Jamón de Trevélez. Its name is protected by a Protected Geographical Indication and the product has had European recognition since 2005.

Trevélez sits at high altitude on the slopes of Sierra Nevada, and its natural conditions have historically favoured the drying and ageing of ham. Walking through its three districts —Bajo, Medio and Alto— it is impossible to forget the local star product: ham shops, drying houses and stores line the steep streets. It is worth doing more here than simply ordering a plate of ham. Visiting a drying house lets you discover how the mountain air and climate influence the curing process and understand why such a seemingly simple product is so closely tied to a specific place.

And then, of course, it is time to taste it. Ideally on its own, thinly sliced and without too many distractions.

Beyond ham: cheeses, honey and mountain larders

Ham gets much of the attention, but reducing Alpujarra cuisine to ham alone would mean missing half the story. In shops and markets you will find artisan goat’s and sheep’s cheeses, honey, almonds, olive oil, preserves, jams and charcuterie. Many are easy to take home and make a far more interesting —and tastier— souvenir than the usual keepsake.

It is also worth paying attention to the pastries and sweets. As elsewhere in eastern Andalusia, almonds, honey and fried or baked doughs feature prominently in traditional treats. The selection changes from village to village, so a good strategy is simply to step into a bakery along the way and ask what is typical there.

The Contraviesa: vineyards on the slopes of the Alpujarra

Beyond the highest villages, the landscape changes again. Between Sierra Nevada and the Mediterranean lies the Contraviesa, a succession of dry, sunny slopes where vines have been part of the scenery for centuries. This is home to the Contraviesa-Alpujarra wine subzone, part of Granada’s protected wine area and including municipalities such as Cádiar, Albondón, Murtas, Torvizcón and Ugíjar. It is probably one of the lesser-known parts of an Alpujarra getaway and, for that very reason, one of the most interesting.

Instead of vast expanses of perfectly aligned vines, you find plots adapted to rugged terrain, small wineries and roads that constantly climb and descend. Some wineries offer visits and tastings, so it is worth checking opening times and booking in advance.

Tasting a wine here comes with an extra attraction: from some points in the Contraviesa you can glimpse the Mediterranean while Sierra Nevada rises behind you. Few landscapes explain the extraordinary geography of Granada province so well.

From the mountains to the Mediterranean

That proximity makes it easy to extend the gastronomic route into a completely different landscape. From the Alpujarra you can descend towards the Costa Tropical, where mountain hams, stews and wines give way to fish, seafood and subtropical crops such as avocado, mango and custard apple. If you have several days, you can combine both landscapes. Our route along Granada’s Costa Tropical has ideas for continuing to Motril, Salobreña, Almuñécar or La Herradura.

In just a few kilometres, the journey moves from ham cured in the mountain air to a table overlooking the Mediterranean.

A two-day gastronomic route through the Alpujarra

If the aim is to combine villages, scenery and food without spending the whole trip in the car, two days make a good introduction.

Day 1: Granada – Lanjarón – Pampaneira – Bubión – Capileira. Leave Granada early and make your first stop in Lanjarón. Then continue towards the Poqueira Gorge, exploring its three villages at an easy pace. Save lunch for Alpujarra cuisine and spend the night in the area. If you have time, set aside a few hours for walking too. The Alpujarra’s network of trails makes it easy to combine the gastronomic route with walks through ravines, irrigation channels and villages, while staying in a rural guesthouse is a good way to extend the experience beyond the day’s visits. The plan works especially well when meals alternate with time outdoors: walk in the morning, enjoy an unhurried lunch and end the day at one of the area’s small rural accommodations.

Day 2: Capileira – Trevélez – Cádiar – Contraviesa. Spend the morning in Trevélez and, if possible, visit a ham drying house. Then continue to Cádiar and the Contraviesa to discover the region’s wine-producing side. If you plan to visit a winery, book ahead and remember that driving and wine tasting do not make a good pairing.

With a third day, you can continue towards the Costa Tropical or return to Granada with a few small stops along the way.

When to visit the Alpujarra for good food

The short answer is: almost all year round, although each season changes the experience considerably. Spring and autumn are especially pleasant for combining villages, trails and food without winter’s cold or the highest summer temperatures. In autumn, the landscape also changes: chestnut trees and other deciduous species bring yellow, ochre and red tones to the slopes, making walks and trails another highlight of the trip. It is also a season particularly suited to the character of Alpujarra cooking: stews, migas, charcuterie, wine and long lunches after a morning outdoors.

In winter, the mountains reveal their most authentic side and hearty dishes come into their own. In summer, meanwhile, it is best to start early, take advantage of the generally cooler temperatures in the higher villages and save the middle of the day for a leisurely meal.

And that may be the best way to discover the Alpujarra: not simply chasing the prettiest village or the most photographed viewpoint, but letting every stop have its own flavour. A plate of migas, a few slices of ham, cheese bought directly from a producer or a glass of Contraviesa wine can tell you as much about these mountains as their whitewashed houses and ravines.

Because in the Alpujarra, the landscape is something you can taste.

September sees the return of Granada’s university buzz. Cafés fill up again, as do bookshops and venues offering live music and street art. Neighbourhoods where everyday life coexists with centuries of history make this a great city break to discover Granada’s younger, more creative side.

There is a time of year when Granada changes pace. The heat eases off, making the terraces inviting again at any time of day, and thousands of students return or arrive for the first time, suitcases and maps in hand, ready to make the city their own. Squares fill with late-night conversations once more, concert venues launch their new season, and cultural calendars come back to life.

September therefore offers the chance to discover a side of the city that often takes a back seat to the Alhambra, the Albaicín and Sacromonte. Granada is a university city with a youthful and contemporary vibe, where you can find exhibitions in Renaissance palaces, rock concerts in long-standing local venues, and street art trails in the Realejo district.

This is another good reason to check out everything you can do in Granada on Volare. This time, make sure you leave a little room in your schedule for spontaneity.

A city built around its university

The relationship between Granada and its university extends far beyond its campuses. Around 65,000 people —including students, researchers, lecturers and staff— are directly connected to the university, which welcomes more than 6,000 international students every year. At the start of the 2026/27 academic year, the university will welcome over 2,200 international mobility students.

You notice it as you walk around the city. In the Fuentenueva, Plaza de la Universidad, Gran Capitán and Pedro Antonio de Alarcón areas, you will find terraces, copy shops, cafés and small restaurants, as well as a diverse range of accents, which better explain why Granada is known as a student city than any statistic could.

The budget helps too. The University of Granada (UGR) dining halls offer students very affordable menus and are one of those everyday institutions that form part of Granada’s university collective mindset. The tradition of serving a tapa with every drink also makes going out for a drink especially good value: even in 2026 there are still establishments advertising a draught beer plus a tapa for just €1.80!

persona exprimiendo limon chipirones bar

For those visiting just for the weekend, these prices have a pleasant consequence. Granada encourages you to stay out late. You can linger over breakfast, step into a bookshop, enjoy an exhibition with a beer, and savour the evening without ever feeling that changing scene is a small luxury.

Bookshops, coffee and culture in the city centre

The best way to experience Young Granada is on foot, as the city centre allows you to visit many cultural sites without needing transport. A good morning could start with browsing the books at Ubú Libros, followed by coffee at La Finca Coffee, a local micro-roastery devoted to speciality coffee. There’s no need to stick to a fixed route: part of the charm lies in stumbling across second-hand bookshops, small stores, galleries and bars as you move from one square to the next.

A few minutes away is the Federico García Lorca Centre, which is dedicated to preserving and sharing the poet’s legacy but which is also conceived as a contemporary cultural space. Very close by, the Palacio de la Madraza houses the UGR’s Centre for Contemporary Culture.

Jardín de la Universidad de Granada — Garden of the University of Granada

This centre is a perfect example of how culture thrives in Granada, with the university spilling out into the city. Its programme includes exhibitions, workshops, concerts, performances, theatre productions, talks and public discussion series.

Realejo: walls that tell stories too

From the centre, simply walk towards the Realejo and you will notice a change in the scenery. The former Jewish quarter of Granada, located next to the Alhambra, is now one of the areas where historic city life and urban creativity coexist most naturally.

Here, it is worth looking beyond the monuments for a moment to appreciate the walls. The Granada-born artist Raúl Ruiz, El Niño de las Pinturas, has spent years transforming the façades, shutters and walls of the neighbourhood into one of the most recognisable chapters of the local street art scene. In streets such as Molinos and Cuesta del Realejo, portraits, everyday scenes, verses and calligraphy blend with balconies, old houses and small shops.

Campo del Príncipe is a good spot to take a break. From there, you can continue on to Santo Domingo, climb up to the Alhambra, or slowly make your way back to the centre. In the late afternoon, the neighbourhood offers exactly what we are looking for on this trip: residents running errands, students relaxing on terraces, and travellers who have temporarily abandoned their sightseeing itinerary. The city seems to live without posing for the camera.

When the venues light up

For a city of its size, Granada has an unusually intense relationship with music, and its small venues are essential to understanding this.

One such institution is Planta Baja. The City Council itself describes it as one of the nerve centres of Granada’s rock and alternative art scene. Its September 2026 programme makes it clear that it is still going strong, with concerts, performances by emerging artists, indie and rock music, and DJ sessions taking place practically all week. However, the most beautiful cultural story of this September’s events centres on La Tertulia. After 46 years linked to poetry, music and Granada’s intellectual life, the historic venue on Pintor López Mezquita closed in May 2026. It seemed like the end. However, the mobilisation of regulars, artists and friends of the venue eventually resulted in the formation of a cultural association, and La Tertulia reopened its doors on 2 September with a new programme of poetry, music, theatre, gatherings and other activities.

There could hardly be a better metaphor for the creative Granada we are talking about than a cultural venue that seemed destined to disappear reopening just as the city begins a new academic year.

Pedro Antonio and an Albaicín where you can lose the map

Later on, you can continue the night in the Pedro Antonio de Alarcón area, which is historically associated with student life, bars and long nights. It is not Granada at its most photogenic, nor does it claim to be. This is precisely why it helps you to understand how the city lives when it stops trying to be a tourist destination.

The next day, it is worth exploring the less visited side of the Albaicín. San Nicolás is hard to ignore, and there’s no reason to, but the neighbourhood is more rewarding when you move away from its most famous viewpoint. The streets around San Miguel Bajo and Plaza Larga, as well as the small squares and slopes connecting the upper neighbourhood with the Darro, offer a different experience: white houses, small bars, local residents, shade, unexpected inclines and corners where you can sit and enjoy the view without necessarily having an attraction pinned on Google Maps.

Granada once again demonstrates its particular talent for transitioning swiftly from a universally recognisable postcard scene to an entirely domestic one.

A candidacy looking ahead to 2031

All this cultural energy has a date on the horizon. Granada is one of four Spanish cities in the running to become the 2031 European Capital of Culture, alongside Cáceres, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Oviedo. The final decision is expected in December 2026. This everyday Granada provides a particularly coherent context for the candidacy. While Lorca and the Alhambra play a significant role in its identity, local culture is also being shaped today through universities, associations, small stages, workshops, painted walls, bookshops, and grassroots projects.

Walking around the city in September allows you to witness that precise moment of renewed momentum.

Studying here means having the mountains, the sea and another planet on your doorstep

Another reason why so many students form an emotional bond with Granada is that the landscape can change completely over a weekend without ever leaving the province. When winter arrives, the Sierra Nevada ski resort is just 40–45 minutes from the city, so you can ski during the day and enjoy tapas in Granada in the evening. If you want to experience this aspect of the area, Volare has a comprehensive guide to exploring Sierra Nevada from Granada.

In the opposite direction lies the Costa Tropical, with the towns Almuñécar, Salobreña, Motril, as well as small Mediterranean coves. To the north, a completely different landscape awaits in the form of the Granada Geopark. Recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2020, it features gullies and badlands, showcasing an extraordinary geological and palaeontological record.

You can therefore spend an academic year in Granada, enjoying a variety of landscapes, from snowy peaks to desert-like terrain, while living in a city that still feels human in scale. For more ideas for outdoor activities, you can also read Granada in nature: active escapes among mountains, valleys and villages.

A weekend in Granada’s most creative side

On Friday, I would start in the Realejo in the late afternoon, taking in the murals at a relaxed pace, before ending up in Campo del Príncipe. Then, I would have tapas in the centre and go to a music event at Planta Baja or La Tertulia. Saturday calls for coffee, bookshops and culture: spending the morning in the centre, at the Federico García Lorca Centre and La Madraza, followed by a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, I would head up to the Albaicín and stay in the neighbourhood as most people started heading down. A concert in a small venue or a bar with live music would be a great way to end the night. On Sunday, depending on how much energy you have left, you can either continue to explore Granada at a relaxed pace or use the city as a base camp to hike in the Sierra Nevada, visit the Geopark or head towards the Costa Tropical.

Granada has enough monuments to fill several trips. But September offers something different: the chance to discover the city that exists between them. The city that fills its cafés with students buying books, organises concerts, paints its walls and starts making plans again after summer.

Granada is usually associated with the Alhambra, the Albaicín neighbourhood, terraces with sweeping views and the peaks of Sierra Nevada. But simply follow the road south to discover another side of Granada: the one that meets the Mediterranean, among whitewashed villages, cliffs, small coves and plantations of avocados, mangoes and cherimoyas.

The short distances make it easy to enjoy a change of scenery without much planning. Motril is 69 kilometres from Granada, Almuñécar 70 and La Herradura 85, so combining a few days of culture in the city with an escape to the coast is especially easy.

The Costa Tropical is also a good alternative for anyone looking for something different from Andalusia’s larger beach destinations. Here, fully serviced urban beaches alternate with small coves tucked between cliffs, interesting seabeds for snorkelling and villages where castles, old quarters and tropical plantations are as much a part of the experience as going for a swim.

Salobreña: whitewashed houses, a castle and a swim in the Mediterranean

If one image sums up this coastline, it is Salobreña: a cluster of whitewashed houses climbing a hill crowned by its castle, with the Mediterranean stretching out below. The fortress, of Hispano-Muslim origin, is also one of the town’s best viewpoints.

After exploring the old town, it is time to head down to the sea. La Guardia is a good choice if you want to spend a few hours on the beach and stay for lunch by the water: it is next to Salobreña beach and has restaurants nearby. Punta del Río and the areas of El Peñón and La Charca are also among the municipality’s recommended beaches.

Salobreña works especially well as a first stop for travellers arriving from Granada: it combines heritage, a pleasant walk and time on the beach without having to spend the whole day lying in the sun.

Almuñécar: the all-round option

For those looking for a base with plenty of services and a variety of things to do, Almuñécar is probably the easiest choice. Its urban beaches —San Cristóbal, Puerta del Mar and Velilla— make it easy to alternate swims with restaurants, the seafront promenade and time in the town centre. But staying only on the beach would mean missing part of its appeal. Almuñécar preserves traces of its long history, including its Roman aqueduct, and has places such as the El Majuelo Botanical Park.

It is a good stop for late afternoon: a walk, a swim and dinner by the sea. It is also a convenient place to stay if you want to spend the following day exploring the coves and cliffs around La Herradura.

La Herradura: kayaking, snorkelling and cliffs

Anyone who would rather spend less time on the promenade and more time in the water should head to La Herradura. Its beach, around two kilometres long, fills a broad bay and is one of the most appealing spots in the area for water activities.

Very close by is Maro-Cerro Gordo, known for its cliffs and protected seabeds. The Costa Tropical tourist office recommends the area for activities such as kayaking, diving and snorkelling, and also highlights small coves including Calaiza and Berengueles. An easy morning plan is to rent a kayak or book a guided trip, explore part of the coast from the water and finish with a swim and lunch in La Herradura. You do not need to be especially sporty: it is more about seeing the landscape from a different perspective than turning the day into an expedition.

Velero navegando frente a La Herradura, en la Costa Tropical de Granada.

It is, however, worth checking the sea conditions and the requirements for your chosen activity before setting out.

Motril: beaches and tropical flavours

Motril, the largest town on Granada’s coast, offers a different kind of escape. If convenience is the priority, Playa de Poniente has a seafront promenade and plenty of services, while Playa Granada offers an alternative a little farther from the town centre.

It is also worth setting aside some time for the Charca de Suárez, a protected wetland next to the Playa de Poniente area that is recommended for birdwatching. It makes a good counterpoint to a day on the beach, especially early or late in the day.

Atardecer sobre el Mediterráneo en Playa Granada, Motril, en la Costa Tropical granadina.

Motril is also a good place to understand why this stretch of coastline is called the Costa Tropical.

Avocados, mangoes and cherimoyas: what to try on the Costa Tropical

The climate of Granada’s coast has made it possible to grow crops that are unusual in much of Europe. The cherimoya, a tropical fruit with a sweet, delicate flavour, is perhaps the region’s most emblematic product, but mangoes, avocados, loquats, guavas and papayas are also grown here. So, alongside fish and seafood dishes, it is worth looking for seasonal local fruit in markets, greengrocers and restaurants. There are even farms on the Costa Tropical that offer visits and tastings of produce grown in the area.

A simple tip: if the menu includes salads, gazpachos, tartares or desserts made with local mango, avocado or cherimoya, it is a good opportunity to discover that Granada’s tropical character is more than just a tourism label.

Which place should you choose on the Costa Tropical?

If you only have one day, do not try to see everything. Salobreña offers the best combination of a picturesque town, heritage and beach; Almuñécar is the most complete option for services and atmosphere; La Herradura is the clear choice for kayaking, snorkelling and small coves; and Motril is a good base for combining broad beaches, food and a more local pace.

With a little more time, you can add a cove outside these main towns. La Rijana, in Gualchos, is one of the Costa Tropical’s most photogenic, with clear water framed by rocky slopes. Granada’s coastline has, in fact, a wide variety of coves and natural beaches beyond its main urban stretches of sand.

Granada + Costa Tropical in 48 hours

Day 1. Granada city. Spend the morning at the Alhambra and around the Albaicín, then keep the afternoon free to enjoy the city centre at a relaxed pace. If you want to wake up by the Mediterranean the next morning, you can head to the coast at the end of the day.

Day 2. The Costa Tropical. For a mix of culture and beach time, choose Salobreña. If you prefer a more active day, go straight to La Herradura for kayaking or snorkelling, then spend the afternoon walking around and having dinner in Almuñécar.

What if you have 72 hours?

With a third day, it makes sense to explore different sides of the coastline.

Day 1: Granada city. The Alhambra, the Albaicín and a night in the city.

Day 2: Salobreña + Motril. Start by exploring Salobreña and its castle, then head down to the beach and continue to Motril in the afternoon. End the day by the sea.

Day 3: La Herradura + Almuñécar. Set aside the morning for a water activity in La Herradura and spend the afternoon between the beaches, historic centre and seafront promenade of Almuñécar before heading back.

For a route with several stops, a car is the most practical option, as it lets you choose beaches and coves according to the weather, the wind and how spontaneous you feel.

Granada shows that you do not necessarily have to choose between a city break and a beach holiday. On the same trip, you can have breakfast overlooking the Alhambra and end the day beside the Mediterranean. That closeness between two apparently contrasting landscapes is precisely one of the best reasons to discover the province in summer.

From the Giro to the Tour and La Vuelta: three legendary races that are also a different way to discover mountains, villages, lakes and landscapes to enjoy with or without a bike.

Europe’s Grand Tours —the Giro d’Italia, the Tour de France and La Vuelta a España— are much more than sporting competitions: they are moving maps that cross some of the continent’s most spectacular landscapes every year.

Watching them live is a thrilling experience, but their routes also inspire getaways outside of the race dates. A weekend in the Dolomites, a route through the French Pyrenees or a few days between Asturias, the Basque Country and Andalusia can become the perfect trip for anyone who loves cycling, nature, characterful villages and panoramic roads.

Giro d’Italia: Dolomites, lakes and Alpine villages

The Giro d’Italia, the famous Corsa Rosa, is one of the most beloved races on the cycling calendar. In 2026 it takes place from 8 to 31 May, with 21 stages and a 3,468-kilometre route. The edition starts in Bulgaria and finishes in Rome, but its most travel-inspiring section for lovers of Italian landscapes is in the north.

What makes the Giro special is its mix of epic challenge and beauty. It is a race of tough mountain passes, Alpine villages, narrow roads and picture-postcard finishes. In a single edition it can move from coast to inland valleys, from historic cities to demanding summits, from the lakes of the north to the mountains that have shaped part of its legend. In 2026, the route includes Alpine stages such as Aosta-Pila, Cassano d’Adda-Andalo, Feltre-Alleghe and Gemona del Friuli-Piancavallo, perfect for imagining a journey through valleys, lakes and mountain passes.

A Giro-inspired getaway: a weekend between lake and Dolomites

A great way to experience the spirit of the Giro without having to coincide with the race is to plan a getaway between Verbania, Lake Maggiore and the mountains of northern Italy. Friday can begin with a lakeside walk among gardens, historic villas and small landing stages. On Saturday, the route can continue towards the Alpine valleys, with stops in mountain villages and at natural viewpoints. Travellers bringing a bike should choose sections suited to their fitness level: you do not need to climb a legendary pass to enjoy Italy’s cycling scenery.

Another, more mountainous option is to use the area around Feltre and Alleghe, in the Dolomites, as a reference point. It is an ideal trip for a long weekend: scenic roads, Alpine lakes, trails, terraces with views and villages where cycling is part of the landscape. In spring and summer, you can combine an easy bike ride with walks, local gastronomy and visits to small mountain towns. The closest airport to Feltre is Venice.

Tour de France: Alps, Pyrenees and the legend of the yellow jersey

The Tour de France is the world’s great benchmark for stage racing. In 2026 it takes place from 4 to 26 July, starting in Barcelona and finishing in Paris. The route covers 3,333 kilometres and will feature 21 stages: 7 flat, 4 hilly, 8 mountain stages, one team time trial and one individual time trial.

monumento tour de france biciclette Col d'Aubisque in Francia

The 2026 edition will be especially interesting for mountain travel. The Tour will pass through the Pyrenees, the Massif Central, the Vosges, the Jura and the Alps. Its mountain-top finishes include Gavarnie-Gèdre, Plateau de Solaison, Orcières-Merlette and Alpe d’Huez, which appears twice on the route. The highest point of the race will be the Col du Galibier, at 2,642 metres.

What makes the Tour unique is its ability to turn a road into a myth. Climbs such as Alpe d’Huez, Galibier and the Pyrenean passes are not only sporting stages: they are pilgrimage sites for amateur cyclists, active travellers and lovers of high-mountain landscapes.

A Tour-inspired getaway: a weekend in the French Pyrenees

For a first getaway inspired by the Tour, the French Pyrenees are a perfect choice. The area around Pau, Lourdes, Gavarnie and the nearby valleys combines cycling, nature and charming villages. Friday can be devoted to arriving calmly and strolling through Pau or Lourdes. On Saturday, the day can focus on a route towards Gavarnie, famous for its glacial cirque and the mountain atmosphere that surrounds it. Trained cyclists will find a genuine challenge on the nearby passes; those who prefer a calmer ride can enjoy trails, viewpoints and panoramic roads at an unhurried pace.

Read also: Great reasons to visit Lourdes

Another possibility is to travel to the French Alps and use the area around Bourg-d’Oisans, closely linked to Alpe d’Huez, as a base. You do not need to cycle up its 21 bends to feel the atmosphere of the Tour: simply explore the villages in the valley, head to the viewpoints and discover how a climb can become part of sporting history.

La Vuelta a España: tough mountain passes, changing landscapes and unpredictable finales

La Vuelta a España has a personality all of its own: it is often explosive, mountainous and full of stages where the landscape changes quickly. In 2026 it takes place from 22 August to 13 September, with 21 stages and 3,275 kilometres. The route starts in Monaco, crosses southern France and Andorra, and then enters Spain with stages in Catalonia, the Valencian Community, Murcia and Andalusia, before finishing in Granada.

Vuelta a España a su paso por San Vicente de la Barquera, Cantabria

The 2026 edition includes 6 mountain stages, 4 medium-mountain stages, 4 flat stages, 4 hilly stages, one hilly stage with a summit finish and 2 individual time trials. Key points include Font Romeu, Andorra la Vella, Aramón Valdelinares, Alto de Aitana, Calar Alto, Sierra de La Pandera, Peñas Blancas and Collado del Alguacil, before the finish in Granada.

Although the exact route changes every year, La Vuelta is often strongly associated with places of powerful character: the green landscapes of Asturias, the intense roads of the Basque Country, the northern passes and the high-mountain scenery of the south, such as Sierra Nevada. Its appeal lies in that variety: in just a few days, the race can move from Atlantic coasts to arid sierras, from mining villages to monumental cities, from impossible slopes to urban finishes.

A La Vuelta-inspired getaway: Granada and Sierra Nevada

For a trip inspired by La Vuelta, Granada and Sierra Nevada are a safe bet.

The weekend plan can begin on Friday afternoon in Granada, with a walk through the Albaicín quarter and views of the Alhambra from one of its viewpoints. On Saturday, the getaway can head towards Sierra Nevada: travellers with a bike will find demanding roads and long climbs, while those looking for a more relaxed day out can go up by car, take a walking route or enjoy the villages of the Alpujarra. Sunday is for returning to Granada, visiting the city at a slower pace and ending the trip with tapas, viewpoints and Andalusian atmosphere.

For those looking for a completely different landscape, another possible getaway is inspired by northern Spain: Asturias or the Basque Country. In Asturias, the trip can combine coast, mountains and rural villages; in the Basque Country, scenic roads, gastronomy and cities such as Bilbao or San Sebastián. These are perfect destinations for understanding why La Vuelta is not just a race of mountain passes, but also a way to discover the diversity of Spain.

Tips for travelling in the footsteps of a Grand Tour

Travelling during the race has a special charm: atmosphere on the roads, decorated villages, fans waiting for the peloton and an energy that is hard to find at other sporting events. But it also requires organisation. You need to check road closures, book accommodation in advance and choose carefully where to watch the cyclists pass.

Outside the official dates, the experience is calmer and more flexible. You can drive along part of the stages, cycle certain sections, stop in villages that flash past on television during the race and spend more time eating well, walking and enjoying the landscape. It is a good option for travellers who want to be inspired by cycling without depending on the calendar or the crowds.

For a weekend getaway, the ideal approach is to choose one specific area and avoid trying to cover too much:

in the Giro, a lake and an Alpine valley;
in the Tour, a mountain pass or a Pyrenean valley;
in La Vuelta, a sierra, a base city and a panoramic route.

That way, the trip keeps the best of cycling: the thrill of the road, but also the pleasure of stopping.

Three races, three ways of looking at Europe

The Giro d’Italia invites you to travel through an Italy of elegant mountains, peaceful lakes and villages where the bicycle is part of local culture. The Tour de France opens the door to the grand landscapes of the Alps and the Pyrenees, with roads that are living sporting history. La Vuelta a España offers a journey that is more changeable, intense and surprising, between the green north, southern sierras and cities full of character.

Following the Grand Tours does not necessarily mean cycling for hours or seeing every stage. It can simply mean choosing a destination with a cycling story, taking a panoramic road, sitting on a mountain terrace or discovering a village that appears on television for just a few seconds every summer.

Less than an hour from Granada, Sierra Nevada offers snow, sunshine and plans to suit all tastes. Skiing, mountain villages, comforting cuisine and spectacular landscapes turn this mountain range into a perfect excursion, even beyond the slopes.

Granada is synonymous with history, tapas and carefree wandering, but few European destinations can boast something as special as having a major ski resort less than an hour from their historic centre. For snow lovers — and also for those who simply enjoy winter scenery — Sierra Nevada is an unmissable excursion.

With more than 100 kilometres of skiable slopes, an abundance of sunshine hours each year and views that, on clear days, stretch all the way to the Mediterranean, Sierra Nevada combines sport, nature and that Andalusian character that makes the experience as welcoming as it is surprising.

CHow to get to Sierra Nevada from Granada

One of Sierra Nevada’s great advantages is its easy access. From Granada, the journey takes between 40 and 45 minutes.

By car: take the A-395 road directly connects Granada with the resort. It is well signposted and in winter it is usually kept in good condition, although it is advisable to check road conditions and carry snow chains if snow is forecast.
By bus: during the ski season there are daily buses from Granada bus station to Pradollano, a convenient and sustainable option.
Private transfers: ideal if travelling in a group or if you prefer to avoid driving in winter conditions.

The proximity of the area even allows for a day trip, although ideally you should dedicate at least a full weekend to it.

Where to stay: sleep in the mountains or in the city

Pradollano: staying at the foot of the slopes

Pradollano is the main hub of the resort. Staying here means practically stepping out with your boots on, making the most of your time on the slopes and enjoying the après-ski atmosphere. There are hotels, tourist apartments and restaurants for all budgets.

It’s the best option if skiing is the main purpose of the trip or if you are travelling with children and are looking for maximum convenience.

pistas pradollano sierra nevada atardecer

Granada City: snow by day, tapas by night

Staying in Granada and heading up to the mountains during the day is an increasingly popular alternative. It allows you to combine skiing with the city’s cultural and gastronomic life, and usually offers more accommodation and dining options.

This combination works particularly well for a short getaway or a first contact with the snow.

The slopes and most interesting areas

Sierra Nevada is a very versatile resort, suitable both for beginners and experienced skiers.

Borreguiles: the heart of the resort and an ideal area for beginners. Here you will find ski schools, green and blue runs, and many of the services.
Veleta: with longer and more technical runs, it boasts spectacular views. Perfect for those with some experience.
Loma de Dílar: one of the favourite areas for advanced skiers, with more challenging descents and an impressive natural setting.
Freestyle area: Sierra Nevada is also a reference point for snowboarding and freestyle, featuring a well-equipped snow park.

In addition, the resort stands out for its wide offer of night skiing facilities, which are uncommon in southern Europe.

Much more than skiing

Not everything in Sierra Nevada revolves around skis. The resort offers activities for everyone, even for those who prefer to stay off the slopes:

Snowshoeing: guided routes to discover the winter landscape at a relaxed pace.
Sledging and family activities: specific areas for children and for those looking for fun without skis.
Panoramic gondola lift: ideal for enjoying the views effortlessly.
Spa and wellness: some accommodation features wellness areas, perfect for relaxing after a cold day.
Walks and viewpoints: simply strolling around Pradollano or sitting in the sun with a hot coffee is already a plan in itself.

What to eat in Sierra Nevada: mountain cuisine with an Andalusian twist

After a day in the snow, your body will crave hearty and comforting dishes. Sierra Nevada’s gastronomy combines mountain cuisine with Andalusian produce and recipes.

In the resort’s restaurants it is common to find:

Spoon dishes such as migas, stews or hot soups.
Grilled meats, especially sausages and pork cuts.
Traditional casseroles that taste even better after being out in the cold.
And, of course, hot chocolate, wines and liqueurs to warm you up.

If you head down to Granada, you can complete the plan with tapas, local wines and a gastronomic offering that needs no introduction.ranada, el plan se completa con tapeo, vinos locales y una oferta gastronómica que no necesita presentación.

The villages of the Sierra: a getaway within the getaway

For those with more time, it’s worth exploring some nearby villages, such as Monachil, the starting point for very popular natural trails, or continuing towards the Alpujarras to discover a more rural and peaceful side of the mountains.

These villages provide a perfect counterpoint to the resort atmosphere and allow you to appreciate the Sierra Nevada beyond skiing.

Practical Tips to Make the Most of It

Book in advance, especially at weekends and during high season.
Check the snow report and weather forecast before heading up.
Dress in layers: the sun can be misleading, but temperatures are low.
If you don’t ski, plan your day anyway: there is plenty to do without stepping onto the slopes.

Sierra Nevada, a different kind of winter

Sierra Nevada is a geographical and cultural rarity: snow and sunshine, skiing and tapas, mountains and a historic city in one single trip. Whether you’re looking for a first snow experience or a more active getaway, this mountain range proves that winter in the south can also be white.

And doing it from Granada, with its energy, gastronomy and character, makes the experience even more special.

Granada is about much more than history and monuments: it is a gateway to the Sierra Nevada, to green valleys and to outdoor routes that invite travellers to discover its most natural and active side.

Granada, where the city blends into nature

Granada is captivating at first sight. The Alhambra standing out against the Sierra Nevada, the neighbourhood of Albaicín at sunset, with its countless steps, the lively terraces and a culture that blends the heritage of Al-Andalus, tradition and contemporary creativity. But beyond its iconic monuments and vibrant urban atmosphere, Granada is also one of the best-located destinations in Spain for those seeking nature, sport and outdoor experiences.

Surrounded by mountains, fertile valleys and charming villages, the city is an excellent base from which to enjoy active day trips. In less than an hour, travellers can go from the historic centre to high-mountain trails, natural viewpoints, ancient forests or riverside routes. This proximity makes Granada an ideal destination for those wishing to combine culture and movement, relaxation and adventure, without giving up the comfort of the city.

From gentle walks to more demanding routes, and through villages where time seems to stand still, these are some of the best nature excursions from Granada to enjoy this destination in an active and sustainable way.

1. Sierra Nevada: hiking among peaks and endless views

The Sierra Nevada National Park is Granada’s great natural treasure and one of the most important protected areas in Europe. It is home to the highest peaks on the Iberian Peninsula and a network of trails suitable for all levels.

From easy routes around Pradollano to more alpine itineraries in summer, the mountain range offers changing landscapes, native flora and spectacular views. In the warmer months, walking through high-altitude meadows is a unique experience.

How to get there from Granada:
By car, it takes around 45 minutes to reach Pradollano. In high season, there are also direct buses from Granada’s bus station.

Local tip:
Start early to avoid the heat and crowds, always carry sun protection and water, and stop at one of the natural viewpoints to enjoy the silence of the mountains.

2. Los Cahorros de Monachil: the most popular (and spectacular) route

Just a few kilometres from the city, Los Cahorros is one of the most famous hiking routes in the province. The trail follows the Monachil River, crossing walkways, suspension bridges and a stunning rocky gorge.

It is a perfect excursion for an active morning, highly scenic and suitable for families used to walking. The combination of water, vegetation and vertical rock walls creates a surprising setting so close to the city.

How to get there from Granada:
By car or city bus to Monachil (around 15 minutes). The signposted trail starts from the village.

Local tip:
Avoid weekends and public holidays if you’re looking for peace and quiet. Wear shoes with a good grip and cross the bridges slowly… the views are worth taking in leisurely!

3. The Lecrín Valley: gentle nature and villages full of character

Known as “the valley of joy”, the Lecrín Valley is a green haven between Granada and the coast. Orange and lemon groves, rural paths and small white villages make this area ideal for relaxed routes and nature walks.

It is perfect for those seeking an active experience without any major climbs, combining light hiking with local gastronomy and a slow pace.

How to get there from Granada:
By car, around 30 minutes via the A-44. It is also possible to reach villages such as Dúrcal or Nigüelas by bus.

Local tip:
Visit the valley in spring or autumn, when the weather is milder and the landscape is at its best. Take the opportunity to eat at a traditional village restaurant.

4. Lanjarón and the Lower Alpujarra: water, mountains and tradition

Lanjarón is the gateway to the Alpujarra and one of the villages most renowned for its spa tradition and natural surroundings. From here, numerous hiking routes lead into ravines, irrigation channels and historic paths.

The contrast between whitewashed architecture, the sound of water and mountain views makes this excursion a very complete experience, both active and cultural.

How to get there from Granada:
By car, around 40 minutes. There are regular buses from Granada’s bus station.

Local tip:
Walk the Ruta de las Acequias for a relaxed hike along the irrigation channels and end the day with a stroll through the old town or a visit to the traditional fountains.

5. The Dehesa del Generalife and the Alhambra trails

Without even really leaving the city, Granada offers nature routes with amazing views. The open spaces of the Dehesa del Generalife and the paths surrounding the Alhambra allow visitors to walk through Mediterranean forests, follow historic royal roads and stop at natural viewpoints overlooking the city.

It is an ideal option for those with limited time who still want to connect with nature without using a car.

How to get there from Granada:
On foot from the historic centre or by public transport to the Alhambra.

Local tip:
Walk at sunset to enjoy the golden light over the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada. Bring water, especially in summer.

6. Montefrío: hiking and one of Spain’s prettiest villages

Montefrío is famous for its spectacular location and panoramic views, considered among the most beautiful in the world. The natural surroundings invite visitors to walk among olive groves, hills and rural paths around the village.

Combining an easy route with a visit to the historic centre and its viewpoints makes this excursion a perfect day out.

How to get there from Granada:
By car, approximately one hour. There is no direct public transport service.

Local tip:
Climb up to the Peña viewpoint at the end of the day and stay to admire the landscape. It’s one of those places that stays with you for a long time.

Granada proves that there is no need to choose between culture and nature. Its excellent location allows travellers to discover very different landscapes over short distances, suitable for all kinds of visitors: experienced hikers, lovers of gentle walks, active families or urban explorers craving some greenery.

From the high mountains of the Sierra Nevada to fertile valleys and charming villages, Granada’s natural surroundings invite you to move around, take deep breaths and reconnect. A destination to be experienced both on the move and stopping to contemplate, turning every excursion into an authentic and revitalising experience.

With its must-visit Alhambra and Generalife, Cathedral, Cartuja monastery, Carmen de los Mártires gardens, Carrera del Darro and Paseo de los Tristes, not to mention the Zacatín, Albaicín, Sacromonte and Realejo districts, you can easily lose yourself in Granada’s unrivalled hidden nooks and alleys.

Visitors can also explore one of the most beautiful areas in Andalusia, which is close by: Jaén. As well as being the Cradle of the Renaissance and the world olive oil capital, Jaén boasts streets and hidden nooks steeped in rich history born of the coexistence of the Christian, Jewish and Muslim cultures. This can be seen in the Cathedral, the Santa Catalina Castle, the Magdalena district, the Arabic baths, the Villardompardo Palace and more.

Likewise, with Almeria located not too far away, you can take a trip there too. This sunny city, dominated by its magnificent Alcazaba fortress, is a great place to visit with its typical La Chanca district, multi-coloured houses, fortress-like cathedral, the Cable Inglés pier and Plaza Vieja. And last but not least, you simply must not miss the Cabo de Gata, a natural park stretching from the coast inland, where you can explore wonderful spots, such as the fishing village of San Jose.