Tour Type: Guided Hiking Tour
Province: Granada
Duration: 7 Nights/ 8 Days
Hiking Days: 6 Days
Min Number of Participants: 4
Best Season: March, April, May, June, September, October,November
Ave distance per day: 15 Km
Difficulty level: Moderate
Total Hiking distance: 81 Km
Start & End at: Granada
Embracing Sustainable Journeys
At Bike and Hike Granada, we’re dedicated to redefining travel through sustainability. Our tours are thoughtfully crafted to promote conscious exploration, focusing on minimizing our ecological footprint and fostering positive societal growth within local communities and economies.
TRIP AT A GLANCE
Hiking the Alpujarras trail on the Sierra Nevada offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and history. This region, renowned for its ‘pueblos blancos’ (white-washed villages), boasts a rich cultural heritage as the last stronghold of the Spanish Moors. The Alpujarras are located near the historic city of Granada, where Muslim kings ruled from the Alhambra palace until the Reconquista in 1492.
Throughout history, the natural beauty of the Alpujarras has provided a serene escape from city life. When the last Muslim King, Boabdil, fled Granada, he found refuge in the Alpujarras. The Islamic influence remains evident in the traditional architecture, with flat clay roofs and cylindrical chimneys reminiscent of Berber homes in the Moroccan Atlas Mountains. The Moors also constructed sophisticated irrigation canals known as ‘acequias’ and terraces for agriculture on the fertile mountain slopes.
The Alpujarras are home to around fifty ‘pueblos blancos,’ each perched on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. These villages are close enough together to offer ample accommodation and dining options along the way, making the hike suitable for beginners and families with children. There is no need to carry a tent or food, and the GR7 trail is well-marked on its most popular stretches.
The Natural Beauty of Hiking the Alpujarras
Nature won’t disappoint when hiking the Alpujarras along the GR7 trail. This route takes you through picturesque valleys and breathtaking mountain landscapes, offering panoramic views of the snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada.
The trail is remarkably diverse, following ancient donkey and mule tracks that villagers have used for centuries. One moment, you’ll find yourself in a dense forest; the next, you’re hiking through pastures or among almond and olive groves. The constantly changing scenery keeps the hike engaging and visually rewarding.
The Alpujarras is home to rich biodiversity. As you hike the GR7 trail, you might spot the iconic Spanish ibex navigating rocky slopes or see Griffon vultures and golden eagles soaring above. The area is also rich in various reptiles and bird species.
Unlike some of Spain’s more popular hiking destinations, the Alpujarras has retained its authentic rural character. The GR7 trail offers a chance to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature, providing a sense of tranquility and solitude.
Highlights
WHAT TO EXPECT
The guide will provide a detailed briefing on each day’s hike, introduce the trail, and offer continuous advice throughout the day while hiking with the group. The tour leader will handle day-to-day needs. Additionally, the guide will share interesting facts about the region’s true beauty, including its traditions, cuisine, history, and landscapes.
Las Alpujarras Gifts and Specialties:
With a diverse array of gifts and specialties, Las Alpujarras offers something special for every visitor to take home and treasure.
Who Can Participate
Discover Las Alpujarras on Foot Tours offer an exciting opportunity for individuals with a moderate fitness level to enjoy a blend of activity and relaxation. These tours are perfect for those who appreciate the outdoors and wish to explore the countryside in a refreshing and interactive way, including beginners looking to immerse themselves in hiking.
Each day involves hiking distances of 15–20 km at a comfortable pace adapted to the terrain. The routes primarily navigate rolling hills and gravel paths, with occasional challenging ascents. Hikes generally last 4–6 hours daily, with some days requiring more time. Regular breaks, lunch stops, and visits to points of interest provide a balanced experience.
Participants should ensure they are prepared for the physical demands, as unpredictable weather can add complexity to certain activities. If necessary, guides may recommend sitting out a particular segment to prioritize safety and group well-being.
If you’re unsure about your readiness, our Adventure Consultants are available to offer tailored advice to help you prepare.
WHEN TO GO HIKING IN ALPUJARRA
Autumn paints the Alpujarras with a breathtaking palette of colors, making it an enchanting time for hiking in this region. The vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold adorn the trees, enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape. The crisp air and clear skies of autumn create an inviting atmosphere for outdoor exploration, and the moderate temperatures offer comfortable hiking conditions.
Spring also emerges as a splendid season for hiking in the Alpujarras. With mild temperatures and the blooming of flowers, the landscape bursts into life with vibrant colors and fragrant scents. The countryside becomes a picturesque tapestry of wildflowers, adding to the allure of the hiking trails.
However, winter brings a different experience to the Alpujarras. While the lower altitudes may remain relatively mild, the higher elevations are prone to cold temperatures and even snowfall. Hiking during this season requires careful preparation and appropriate gear to navigate the potentially icy trails.
Summer, although popular for hiking, comes with its challenges. The Alpujarras experience high temperatures during the summer months, making hiking uncomfortable, particularly in the heat of the day. Additionally, the trails can be crowded with tourists seeking to explore the region’s natural beauty, diminishing the sense of tranquility that one may find in other seasons.
Overall, each season in the Alpujarras offers a unique experience for hikers, from the vibrant colors of autumn to the mild blossoms of spring, the chilly landscapes of winter, and the bustling warmth of summer. Choosing the ideal time to hike depends on personal preferences and tolerance for weather conditions.
WHAT IS GR7 TRIAL
The GR 7 (Gran Recorrido 7) is a long-distance hiking trail that stretches across multiple countries in Europe, including Andalusia, Spain. In Andalusia, the GR 7 traverses’ diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastal regions. It offers hikers the opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, passing through charming villages, historic sites, and stunning viewpoints along the way.
The trail in Andalusia often follows ancient paths and footpaths, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history and traditional way of life. Hikers can expect varied terrain, ranging from gentle slopes to rugged mountainous terrain, with some sections requiring a moderate to advanced level of fitness.
Overall, the GR 7 hiking trail in Andalusia offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Spanish countryside while experiencing the warmth of Andalusian hospitality.
Climate
The region has a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine and long daylight hours, even in winter. In spring and autumn, temperatures range from 8°C to 19°C, while summer temperatures can reach 22°C to 35°C, and often higher. At higher elevations, temperatures are slightly cooler. Rainfall is minimal. In winter, nights can be quite cold, with daytime temperatures averaging around 12°C.
Arrival and Departure info:
Your Bike and Hike Granada guide will meet you at Plaza Mariana Pienda or your hotel at 8:00 AM on Day 1 of your trip. The journey will conclude on the final day at 18:00 PM, with drop-off options at the airport, bus terminal, Hotel or Plaza Mariana Pienda.
Scheduled to operate
If four persons books a trip on a specific date, the departure is guaranteed. For trips with only one or two guests, we will contact you before your final payment
Trips with fewer than four guests may be led by a single guide who also serves as the driver, providing full support with a BHG van. If you prefer to have two guides, please consult your trip advisor, as this may involve an additional cost due to the minimum participant requirement not being met.
In rare cases, unforeseen circumstances may require trip cancellations or modifications. Our Guest Services team will keep you informed of any changes. We reserve the right to cancel a departure due to force majeure or if third-party partners, such as hotels, cannot fulfill their reservations. In such cases, all payments made will be fully refunded, constituting full settlement. Bike and Hike Granada is not responsible for expenses related to canceled trips, including airline tickets, travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly recommend purchasing your own travel insurance for full coverage.
Travel Insurance
It is your responsibility to secure appropriate travel insurance for your trip. This should include coverage for trip cancellation, activities such as hiking,Cycling trip curtailment, as well as sufficient medical insurance for illness, injury, and medical repatriation. We also strongly recommend having insurance to cover your travel arrangements, including flights, and your personal belongings.
We encourage you to do your own research to find the insurance policy that best suits your needs.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation:
Our selection of accommodations has been thoughtfully curated to enhance your journey, blending exceptional locations with a unique personal touch, making your trip an unforgettable experience.
Your stay at these accommodations includes breakfast and offers excellent service, often complemented by amenities such as a restaurant, bar, garden, and swimming pool included, ensuring you’re well taken care of.
The standard room type is the Standard Double Room, designed for double occupancy, featuring two individual beds or a double bed for couples.
To ensure a comfortable and harmonious experience, room assignments are made considering the gender of the travelers. Private rooms / single supplements can be arranged for individuals who prefer not to share accommodations with other group members, subject to an additional cost. It’s important to note that a request for a single room must always be made in advance due to limited hotel capacity.
Meals:
Meals are included as outlined in the Tour Inclusion details, breakfast provided each day. At Bike and Hike Granada, we prioritize great food, and you can look forward to enjoying excellent regional cuisine throughout the trip.
On the evenings when you are free to choose your own dinner, your guide will recommend local dining options and assist with making reservations. They will ensure you have all the information needed to explore the local dining scene independently.
Optional:
WHAT TO EXPECT
The guide will provide a detailed briefing on each day’s hike, introduce the trail, and offer continuous advice throughout the day while hiking with the group. The tour leader will handle day-to-day needs. Additionally, the guide will share interesting facts about the region’s true beauty, including its traditions, cuisine, history, and landscapes.
Las Alpujarras Gifts and Specialties:
With a diverse array of gifts and specialties, Las Alpujarras offers something special for every visitor to take home and treasure.
Who Can Participate
Discover Las Alpujarras on Foot Tours offer an exciting opportunity for individuals with a moderate fitness level to enjoy a blend of activity and relaxation. These tours are perfect for those who appreciate the outdoors and wish to explore the countryside in a refreshing and interactive way, including beginners looking to immerse themselves in hiking.
Each day involves hiking distances of 15–20 km at a comfortable pace adapted to the terrain. The routes primarily navigate rolling hills and gravel paths, with occasional challenging ascents. Hikes generally last 4–6 hours daily, with some days requiring more time. Regular breaks, lunch stops, and visits to points of interest provide a balanced experience.
Participants should ensure they are prepared for the physical demands, as unpredictable weather can add complexity to certain activities. If necessary, guides may recommend sitting out a particular segment to prioritize safety and group well-being.
If you’re unsure about your readiness, our Adventure Consultants are available to offer tailored advice to help you prepare.
WHEN TO GO HIKING IN ALPUJARRA
Autumn paints the Alpujarras with a breathtaking palette of colors, making it an enchanting time for hiking in this region. The vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold adorn the trees, enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape. The crisp air and clear skies of autumn create an inviting atmosphere for outdoor exploration, and the moderate temperatures offer comfortable hiking conditions.
Spring also emerges as a splendid season for hiking in the Alpujarras. With mild temperatures and the blooming of flowers, the landscape bursts into life with vibrant colors and fragrant scents. The countryside becomes a picturesque tapestry of wildflowers, adding to the allure of the hiking trails.
However, winter brings a different experience to the Alpujarras. While the lower altitudes may remain relatively mild, the higher elevations are prone to cold temperatures and even snowfall. Hiking during this season requires careful preparation and appropriate gear to navigate the potentially icy trails.
Summer, although popular for hiking, comes with its challenges. The Alpujarras experience high temperatures during the summer months, making hiking uncomfortable, particularly in the heat of the day. Additionally, the trails can be crowded with tourists seeking to explore the region’s natural beauty, diminishing the sense of tranquility that one may find in other seasons.
Overall, each season in the Alpujarras offers a unique experience for hikers, from the vibrant colors of autumn to the mild blossoms of spring, the chilly landscapes of winter, and the bustling warmth of summer. Choosing the ideal time to hike depends on personal preferences and tolerance for weather conditions.
WHAT IS GR7 TRIAL
The GR 7 (Gran Recorrido 7) is a long-distance hiking trail that stretches across multiple countries in Europe, including Andalusia, Spain. In Andalusia, the GR 7 traverses’ diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastal regions. It offers hikers the opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, passing through charming villages, historic sites, and stunning viewpoints along the way.
The trail in Andalusia often follows ancient paths and footpaths, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history and traditional way of life. Hikers can expect varied terrain, ranging from gentle slopes to rugged mountainous terrain, with some sections requiring a moderate to advanced level of fitness.
Overall, the GR 7 hiking trail in Andalusia offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure, allowing hikers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Spanish countryside while experiencing the warmth of Andalusian hospitality.
Climate
The region has a Mediterranean climate with plenty of sunshine and long daylight hours, even in winter. In spring and autumn, temperatures range from 8°C to 19°C, while summer temperatures can reach 22°C to 35°C, and often higher. At higher elevations, temperatures are slightly cooler. Rainfall is minimal. In winter, nights can be quite cold, with daytime temperatures averaging around 12°C.
Arrival and Departure info:
Your Bike and Hike Granada guide will meet you at Plaza Mariana Pienda or your hotel at 8:00 AM on Day 1 of your trip. The journey will conclude on the final day at 18:00 PM, with drop-off options at the airport, bus terminal, Hotel or Plaza Mariana Pienda.
Scheduled to operate
If four persons books a trip on a specific date, the departure is guaranteed. For trips with only one or two guests, we will contact you before your final payment
Trips with fewer than four guests may be led by a single guide who also serves as the driver, providing full support with a BHG van. If you prefer to have two guides, please consult your trip advisor, as this may involve an additional cost due to the minimum participant requirement not being met.
In rare cases, unforeseen circumstances may require trip cancellations or modifications. Our Guest Services team will keep you informed of any changes. We reserve the right to cancel a departure due to force majeure or if third-party partners, such as hotels, cannot fulfill their reservations. In such cases, all payments made will be fully refunded, constituting full settlement. Bike and Hike Granada is not responsible for expenses related to canceled trips, including airline tickets, travel delays, flight cancellations, or illness. We strongly recommend purchasing your own travel insurance for full coverage.
Travel Insurance
It is your responsibility to secure appropriate travel insurance for your trip. This should include coverage for trip cancellation, activities such as hiking,Cycling trip curtailment, as well as sufficient medical insurance for illness, injury, and medical repatriation. We also strongly recommend having insurance to cover your travel arrangements, including flights, and your personal belongings.
We encourage you to do your own research to find the insurance policy that best suits your needs.
Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation:
Our selection of accommodations has been thoughtfully curated to enhance your journey, blending exceptional locations with a unique personal touch, making your trip an unforgettable experience.
Your stay at these accommodations includes breakfast and offers excellent service, often complemented by amenities such as a restaurant, bar, garden, and swimming pool included, ensuring you’re well taken care of.
The standard room type is the Standard Double Room, designed for double occupancy, featuring two individual beds or a double bed for couples.
To ensure a comfortable and harmonious experience, room assignments are made considering the gender of the travelers. Private rooms / single supplements can be arranged for individuals who prefer not to share accommodations with other group members, subject to an additional cost. It’s important to note that a request for a single room must always be made in advance due to limited hotel capacity.
Meals:
Meals are included as outlined in the Tour Inclusion details, breakfast provided each day. At Bike and Hike Granada, we prioritize great food, and you can look forward to enjoying excellent regional cuisine throughout the trip.
On the evenings when you are free to choose your own dinner, your guide will recommend local dining options and assist with making reservations. They will ensure you have all the information needed to explore the local dining scene independently.
Driving distance: 75 Km
Activity: Guided Sightseeing
Our guide will meet you at your Granada hotel at 9 am and drive approximately 75 km to Capileira. Upon arrival, the guide will outline the six-day hiking itinerary.
Capileira, perched above the Poqueira Gorge with the Sierra Nevada as its backdrop, offers charming narrow streets, artisan shops with exquisite leather goods, and restaurants serving traditional cuisine. Explore its unique boutiques and savor local dishes while enjoying breathtaking mountain views—a perfect blend of beauty and adventure.
Hiking Distance: 10 Km
Starting and ending in Capileira, this scenic loop around the Poqueira Gorge passes through the picturesque villages of Bubion and Pampaneira, known for their Moorish heritage.
Enjoy stunning views of towering peaks, almond terraces, and grazing cattle as you hike through the lush valley, crossing acequias that nourish the land.
Pampaneira offers a perfect rest stop with vibrant cafes and local delicacies like Plato Alpujarreño.
Refueled, ascend the gorge’s opposite side, soaking in breathtaking vistas before returning to Capileira.
Hiking Distance: 11.5 Km
Depart from Capileira and meander along serpentine trails that weave through ancient oak forests, pine groves, and terraced fields. As you journey, you’ll reach the Taha de Pitres, a historic area renowned for its intricate network of irrigation channels dating back to the Moorish era.
Your adventure culminates in the quaint village of Ferreirola, nestled deep within a lush, serene valley, untouched by-passing traffic. This picturesque retreat offers a perfect setting for a peaceful stay over the next few nights.
Hiking Distance: 16 Km
The Taha Valley, with its collection of seven charming villages, offers a delightful loop walk showcasing some of the area’s most scenic spots. As you traverse ancient mule trails along the Rio Trevelez valley, breathe in the crisp mountain air. The route gently ascends through forest paths leading to the village of Busquistar. From there, the loop guides you back to discover the villages of Portugos, Pitres, and Atalbeitar, each with its own unique charm.
Hiking Distance: 16 Km
Today’s adventure involves a challenging ascent, but the effort is well worth it. Departing from Ferreirola, you’ll climb along the Trevelez river valley. Along the way, take breaks to appreciate panoramic views of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada.
Upon reaching Trevelez, Spain’s highest village, unwind and soak in the stunning scenery. Treat yourself to some of Trevelez’s famous jamón serrano (dried ham) and a glass of wine as you relax on the terrace of your picturesque mountain hotel.
Hiking Distance: 12 Km
Enjoy stunning mountain views as you follow the Trevelez River, fed year-round by Sierra Nevada snowmelt. Walk through terraced fields, spot grazing cows, and return to the village for refreshments and a delicious dinner featuring fresh local trout.
For a challenge, consider the optional hike to Siete Lagunas. This demanding trail ascends above the tree line, offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks and lush valleys. Prior mountain experience and good weather are essential. If conditions aren’t ideal, explore the charming village of Trevelez instead.
Hiking Distance: 15 Km
Embark on another breathtaking day of hiking, journeying from one picturesque mountain village to the next. Begin your hike through shaded woodlands, navigating narrow footpaths that ascend to lofty heights. The climb rewards you with sweeping vistas of the mountains, and on a clear day, you might even glimpse the distant shores of Africa.
Perched at 1,350 meters, Berchules awaits as your destination. This charming village invites you to explore its tranquil, narrow streets and savor the stunning views before settling in for the night.
Driving Distance: 105 Km
After breakfast, check out and proceed to Granada Airport or the train station for your onward journey (around 2.5 hours). If you have extra time, consider staying a bit longer in the stunning city of Granada. Contact us to arrange additional nights so you can delve into the city’s rich Moorish history, experience the vibrant Andalusian ambiance, or tour the magnificent Alhambra. We highly recommend it!
Fixed Departure
SEPTEMBER 06, 2025 SEPTEMBER 13, 2025
OCTOBER 04, 2025 OCTOBER 11, 2025
APRIL 04, 2026 APRIL 11, 2026
MAY 02, 2026 MAY 09, 2026
JUNE 06, 2026 MAY 13, 2026
SEPTEMBER 05, 2026 SEPTEMBER 12, 2026
OCTOBER 03, 2026 OCTOBER 10, 2026
