Walking in the Grenadine Alpujarra

Definitely a route of both gastronomic and anthropological interests this trek of approx 40 kms.

Taking in some of the regions best-preserved villages. The landscape of the walk is very varied. From forests of Pine, Cherry and Chestnut, across many rivers and streams to the villages of Bubion, Capileira and Pampaneira.

Finally up the river valley of the Rio Bermejo through the Portugos Oak grove to Europe’s highest village. A title earned by the inhabitants of Trevelez, who, with the benefit of the wonderful climate of the region live all year round at an altitude of 1476 metres.

This village’s rarified atmosphere is what is said to give the famous hams cured in and around the village such a spectacular flavor. A note of irony since there are no pigs what so ever reared in the area.

Popularity: 47% [?]

Staying on the northern slopes, the walk has some of the most scenic and panoramic views, and includes a section along the ‘Verdeda de la Estrella’.

Considered by many as one of the most beautiful paths in the Sierras. The trail starts in the village of Guejar-Sierra, just east of Granada city and takes you up in the direction of the ski resort.

Along the route there are wonderful views towards the Sierra Arana mountains of Jaen, Granada’s northerly neighbor. After passing through forests of Chestnut trees and crossing the Genil River and San Juan streams, one of its tributaries.

The finest views of the Alcazaba and Mulhacens peaks can be had on route. The later being the highest mountain in the Iberian peninsular at 3479 metres. A relatively light walk of 16 kms. It can be made throughout most of the year.

Popularity: 37% [?]

A very picturesque route surely through some of the country featured in the book ‘A Parrot in the Pepper Tree’ by Chris Stewart.

Though lacking in exact reference points, it is believed that the valleys formed by the Tesoro Divide and the Dilar and Durcal rivers with beautiful meadows full of wild mountain flowers were the inspiration for some of the chapters. As were the villages on the southern edge of this trek the backdrop for the book ‘Driving of Lemons’ by the same author.

Now actively involved in guided walks in the region, Chris Stewart is still resident in the area.

Popularity: 37% [?]

Capileira to Trevelez via the peaks of Veleta (3396 metres) and Mulhacen (3479 metres) – Granada

It’s a 2-day expedition from the start point at the Cebadilla hydroelectric plant in Capileira from a little over 1400 metres.

It’s a relatively easy hike up through fields of evergreen bushes to the peak of Veleta. Then down through the Lobo pass to an overnight stop at the Felix Mendez shelter.

The following day the climb to the peak of Spain’s highest mountain is followed by the descent past the eerie Siete Lagunas.

The lake is said to contain the ghost of a lonely virgin who seduces shepherds down in to its deep dark waters as they sleep on its sides.

From there it’s a simple decent almost straight down over a 4 km track to the village of Trevelez.

Popularity: 35% [?]

From the picturesque village of Laujar de Andarax, capital of the Alpujarra since the fall of the Morisco reign in the 1700th century. Up to the Refugio El Cerecillo under the peak of the Corro del Almirez at 2517 metres. The route covers approximately 25 kms. and takes in the rich wine growing region of Laujar, with the opportunity of a tasting in one of the Bodegas in the village, through the forested area of hillside to the Nacimiento picnic area. There is an opportunity to see the Laujar trout fishery and discover the local sweet pastries and hams of the region. Overnight stops are possible at 2 local, camping grounds, or the refugios on route.

Popularity: 26% [?]