Skiing in Sierra Nevada Spain
Europe's southernmost Ski-resort and Spain's highest, Sierra Nevada is home to the country's fourth tallest summit, Veleta. An instantly recognisable peak, it juts into the snow-capped Skyline to be seen from miles around, and first imposed itself upon me as I moseyed through the sprawling valleys of the Sierra Nevada in my friend's jolly (if a little beat up) VW campervan.
Despite nearly causing me to become reacquainted with my breakfast (thanks to the twists and turns of the mountain road and the everpresent smell of diesel) the journey from where we were staying in Malaga was breathtaking. Characterised by the rolling peaks and troughs of the Andalusian countryside and the perpetual glow of the blue sky above, a trip to this resort is worth it for the views alone… Or maybe I got lucky, and as an Englishman was just excited by a colour other than grey.
Sierra Nevada Skiing Hotels
As I alluded to earlier in the blog, we stayed in Malaga, along the Costa del Sol. A very fitting name for a stunning stretch of coastline on Spain's southernmost tip. On a sunny day you could look North-East and see the mountains of the Sierra Nevada, and South across the mediterranean to the dunes of morocco. But a two hour travel time to get to the resort means this may not be for everyone. Your best options in this case are the many hotels within the resort that cater to a wide range of budgets, or staying in the resort's nearest city Granada. A short 40 minute drive away, steeped in history and architectural genius, this is an excellent option if you enjoy the finer things in life. Pro tip: I find booking.com always has the best deals when searching for foreign hotels.
The perfect blend of thrilling slopes and breath-taking views, that makes every descent unforgettable.
Sierra Nevada Skiing Map
Many of you reading this may not have heard of this resort before, and I Don’t blame you, the Spanish have kept it a secret for decades, selfish right? Situated East of Granada, the mountains themselves span a 26 mile stretch of Spain's Baetic system that wraps around the Iberian peninsula and luckily for us is perfect for skiing, with runs that intricately sprawl out on both sides of the range this place really is a hidden gem, that has unparalleled amounts of raw, uncut fun to offer.
The first thing you’ll notice about the resort itself? Its distinct lack of English people. Regular holidaymakers to Spain or other European Ski-resorts may not believe me but I promise you we were the only native English speakers within a fifty mile radius, and yes, we were just as shocked as you. Now to some this may feel daunting but for me and my friends it was perfect, it really felt like we had escaped the beaten track and were embarking on something that not many of our peers ever would. So, armed with a flask and a minimal understanding of Spanish, off we went.
Now as for the Skiing, it was phenomenal, with over 107 Km's of skiable terrain and runs for all levels, from beginners to the toffee nosed self proclaimed “pros”, you so often find residing in ski-resorts. With it being a small destination, I didn’t expect such a high level of skiing but I was genuinely blown away by how enthralling the runs on offer were. Not once did I experience an ounce of boredom as I tore my way down the slopes, friends in tow. It was wholeheartedly, one of the most freeing experiences I’ve had in my short time on this earth.
Rio (the resorts village)
By no means a large settlement, Rio isn’t an extraordinarily exciting place either, however with bars and restaurants aplenty it will suitably fit the needs of most travellers and their companions. Just don’t hold out too much hope for an extravagant Apres. |
Family fun
As I have alluded to earlier on in the blog there is plenty of skiing available for less experienced adventurers, so families with younger children will be well catered for in that respect. On top of this the resort now offers a Children's Cinema and a themed slope for the younger powder hounds. |
See you there!
To date Sierra Nevada is by far my favourite Ski-resort and I will inevitably be back sooner rather than later. If this blog hasn’t already enticed you to take the gamble and leave the traditional resorts behind, I really implore you to do so. And If we don’t bump into each other, happy Skiing!
