The inhabited mountain
Comfortable villages, Hispano-Muslim influence in architecture and irrigation ditches
The most human mountain in Europe
Sierra Nevada is undoubtedly the most humane mountain in Europe. Here, in the south of the continent, facing Africa, cultivation is possible up to an altitude of 2,000 meters; the villages are situated below the snow line, which is usually around 1,800 meters above sea level. Living is comfortable in small villages from 500 to 1,500 meters, while the cultivation terraces climb even higher. The mountain meadows reach up to 3000 meters in areas accessible thanks to the paths wisely traced by shepherds and used for hundreds of years, and the "human hand" has shaped an ecocultural landscape of enormous value and attractiveness. Of all the cultures that left their mark here, the Hispano-Muslim culture is the most evident. Urban planning, architecture and the complex network of irrigation channels are elements that belong to the identity heritage of Sierra Nevada.
The mountain where it is always spring
Are you one of those who think it is not possible to enjoy nature in the Andalusian summer? Forget this idea, the southern mountain range is cool in its highlands in the middle of summer. Likewise, it surprises the visitor with regions where the winter is extremely mild. In winter it is possible to enjoy all kinds of activities and a comfortable stay in the lower Alpujarra of Granada and Almeria, in the villages of the foothills of the mountain and the Lecrin Valley. Also in summer we find a climatic spring in the highest areas. It is the time to go up to enjoy the thaw, the flowering of the meadows and the multicolored flight of butterflies. Spring and autumn are two wonderful seasons throughout the mid-mountains and in the six counties of the sierra. The flowering, the resurgence of life after the thaw, the abundance of water or the change of color in autumn create a perfect setting to enjoy the stay and perform a multitude of activities.