Name: DISCOVER LAS ALPUJARRAS ON FOOT - Hiking - Bike and Hike Granada
Price: 1850.00 EUR
Availability: InStock

OVERVIEW

Tour Type: Guided HIKING Tour

Province: Granada

Duration: 7 Nights/ 8 Days

Hiking Days: 6 Days

Min Number of Participants: 7

Best Season: March, April, May, June, September, October

Ave distance per day: 15 Km

Difficulty level: Moderate

Total Hiking distance: 81 Km

Start & End at: Granada

Nearest Airport: Granada

EMBRACING SUSTAINABLE JOURNEY

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.

ABOUT THE HIKE

Embark on a journey through the ancient white villages of the Alpujarras, nestled on the sun-kissed southern slopes of Spain’s snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains in Andalucia. Starting from Capileira, the heart of the Alpujarras, traverse pastoral landscapes adorned with olive groves and quaint Berber-style hamlets, once strongholds of the Moorish era. Inhale the crisp mountain breeze as you uncover Trevelez, Spain’s second highest village nestled beneath the towering peak of Mulhacén. Along the way, pause for a rejuvenating break and savor a picnic featuring local delights, including the renowned ‘jamon serrano’. Retreat each night to charming rural hotels tucked away in picturesque mountain surroundings, where warm hospitality ensures an authentic taste of rural Spain.

WHY HIKE IN ALPUJARRA TRAIL

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

Traverse the Villages of Las Alpujarras: Wander through the picturesque villages nestled on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada.
Scenic Mountain Views: Wake up to breathtaking mountain vistas from rural hotels set in idyllic locations.
Gourmet Local Cuisine: Savor delectable local delicacies, including renowned dried hams and spice-laden dishes
Visit Trevélez: Discover Trevélez, Spain’s highest village, situated at the base of the imposing Mulhacén.
Explore Poqueira Gorge: Delve into the beauty of Poqueira Gorge and the charming white villages of Bubión and Pampaneira.

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.

Included/Excluded

Professional guides with years of expertise
7-night stay in charming rural hotels
Breakfast
Civil Liability and accident insurance
Luggage transfers according to the itinerary
Transportation to Capileira and from Berchules

Tickets and Visa
Insurance
Extra meals
Extra excursions
Personal Expenses
Tips
Extra nights
Lunch and Dinner – all days

Tour Plan

Day 1 GRANADA – CAPILEIRA

Driving distance: 75 Km

Activity: Guided Sightseeing

Our guide will meet you at the hotel in Granada at 9 am. From there, we will drive approximately 75 km to Capileira. Upon arrival, the guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the hiking itinerary for the next seven days.

Perched high above the Poqueira Gorge with the majestic Sierra Nevada as its backdrop, Capileira embodies the quintessential charm of a mountain village. Wander through its labyrinthine, narrow streets, where a delightful array of handicraft shops showcases exquisite leather goods, reflecting the village's rich artisanal heritage. After exploring these unique boutiques, treat yourself to a delicious meal in one of Capileira's numerous restaurants, where traditional cuisine and local specialties are served with a view of the stunning mountain scenery. The village's combination of enchanting vistas, authentic crafts, and culinary delights makes Capileira a perfect destination for those seeking both beauty and adventure.

Accommodation: Hotel

Day 2 POQUIERA TO GORGE LOOP HIKE

Hiking Distance: 10 Km

Hiking Time: 4-5 hrs.

Ascent: 718 m

Descent: 723 m

Difficulty level: Moderate

Starting and ending in Capileira, embark on a charming loop around the Poqueira Gorge. This route takes you through the serene whitewashed villages of Bubion and Pampaneira, historically significant as they provided refuge to the last remaining Moorish communities following the fall of Granada to the Christians in 1492.

As you hike, relish the stunning vistas of towering peaks and the Alpujarras spread out below. The path winds through a lush valley adorned with almond terraces and grazing cattle. Along the way, you'll encounter many acequias—water channels that nourish the valley. Pampaneira makes an ideal rest stop, where you can refuel at its vibrant shops and cafes offering local delicacies like Plato Alpujarreño (a hearty dish of fried eggs, Spanish sausages, and potatoes).

Revitalized, you’ll climb steeply up the opposite side of the gorge, eventually returning to Capileira, with breathtaking views accompanying you all the way back.

Accommodation: Hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Day 3: HIKING IN FERREIROLA

Hiking Distance: 11.5 Km

Hiking Time: 6-7 hrs

Ascent: 492

Descent: 924

Difficulty level: Moderate

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.

Accommodation: Hotel: Hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Day 4: TAHA VALLEY LOOP HIKE

Hiking Distance: 16 Km

Hiking Time: 5-6 hrs

Ascent: 820 m

Descent: 820 m

Difficulty level: Moderate

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.

Accommodation: Hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Day 5: HIKE TO TREVELEZ

Hiking Distance: 16 Km

Hiking Time: 5-6 hrs

Ascent: 1128 m

Descent: 595

Difficulty level: Moderate

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.

Accommodation: Hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Day 6: HIKE IN TREVELEZ

Hiking Distance: 12 Km

Hiking Time: 4-5 hrs

Ascent: 331 m

Descent: 318 m

Difficulty level: Moderate

Revel in the stunning mountain vistas as you follow a path along the Trevelez River, which stays lively year-round thanks to the Sierra Nevada’s snowmelt.

Stroll through terraced fields and perhaps encounter grazing cows, then head back to the village to enjoy some well-deserved refreshments. Later, indulge in a delightful dinner at your hotel, with fresh local trout (trucha) as a recommended dish.

For those seeking a greater challenge, consider the optional hike to Siete Lagunas. This more demanding hike takes you higher into the mountains than you’ve ventured before, leading to the Siete Lagunas valley. Shortly after departing Trevelez, you’ll rise above the tree line, offering unobstructed views of both the rugged peaks above and the lush valley below. Given the hike's difficulty, previous mountain experience is highly recommended. Always check the weather forecast beforehand, as we cannot advise attempting this hike in stormy weather, heavy rain, or low visibility. It’s not suitable for solo hikers under such conditions. If the weather isn’t favorable, take the opportunity to explore the charming village of Trevelez instead!

Accommodation: Hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Day: 7 HIKE TO BERCHULES

Hiking Distance: 15 Km

Hiking Time: 5-6 hrs

Ascent: 675

Descent: 840

Difficulty level: Moderate

Embark on another breathtaking day of hiking, journeying from one picturesque mountain village to the next. Begin your trek 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.

Accommodation: Hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Day: 8 FAREWELL – BERCHULES TO GRANADA

Driving Distance: 105 Km

After breakfast, check out and proceed to Granada Airport or the train station for your onward journey (around 3 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!

Meal Plan: Breakfast