Alpujarras and Granada Walking Tour

Alpujarras and Granada Walking Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival

Southern Spain’s splendid city of Granada is a fascinating fusion of ancient tradition and modern flair. The legacy of the Spanish Moors lives on in this city, which was the last stronghold of the ancient rulers. After settling into your accommodations here, set out on an exploration of this vibrant city to acquaint yourself with its tantalizing smells, sights, and sounds.

A walk in the former Arab quarter of Albayzin is an excellent place to start. The old Moorish quarter is a collection of zigzagging cobblestone streets lined with fruit and spice stalls and several colourful shops and restaurants.

Another must-see in Granada is the Alhambra, a colossal complex of palaces, gardens and fountains dating back to the mid-13th century.

Top off your first day with a refreshing drink and authentic tapas at one of the lively terraces in the old town. The warm hospitality of the Andalusian people will, without a doubt, have you feeling right at home in Granada!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Granada
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast

Day 2 Discover the Upper Poqueira Valley

This morning, a short taxi transfer will take you to one of the Poqueria Valley’s three “white villages,” the beautiful town of Capileira. Here, you’ll get settled into your hotel before embarking on today’s route.

As you make your way through the white-washed villages, staples of the landscape that make up the Alpujarras, you’ll walk alongside terraced olive groves, ancient cortijos (farmhouses), and vast countryside. Enjoy this most welcoming walk and revel in your first sweet encounter with the beauty of the Alpujarras!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Capileira
Distance: 3-3.5 hours, 7.5km, 350m of ascent, 350m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Picturesque Villages of the Poqueira Valley

The Poqueira Valley unfolds beneath the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and is home to three quaint mountain villages, one of which you stayed in last night (Capileira).

Today’s walk will introduce you to the valley’s two other “white villages,” Bubion and Pampaneira. As you walk ancient trails, archaic bridges, deserted crop fields and winding water channels, you’ll have a chance to get lost in the winding streets of these picturesque mountain villages. Tiny churches and narrow lanes, all frozen in time, will provide a fascinating encounter with this region’s roots.

Be sure to explore the arts and crafts shops of Pampaniera, where you’ll find unique leather, rugs, and pottery! Pampaniera is also home to a traditional chocolate factory that doubles as a museum and is well worth a visit, especially for those with a sweet tooth!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Capileira
Distance: 5.5 hours, 10km, 560m of ascent, 560m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Walk Mediterranean Woods to the Taha de Pitres

This morning you’ll say farewell to the beautiful Poqueria Valley as you make your way east along stony footpaths that link Mediterranean woods of holm oak to a reforested area rich in pine.

The final section of the walk will lead you to the Taha de Pitres. A fascinating cultural encounter awaits you as you make your way through this area’s small villages, which have seen very little change since Moorish times.

The picturesque villages and hamlets lay the groundwork for a most authentic experience here. Soak up the peace and tranquillity of this haven in the heart of the Alpujarras as you spend the night in the small village of Mecina.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Mecina
Distance: 4-4.5 hours, 8km, 100m of ascent, 520m of descent
Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 5 Walk the Trevélez Valley

This morning departing Mecina, a short transfer will take you to today’s trailhead in Busquístar, another village of the Taha de Pitres. A lovely stretch of trail will take you through the Trevélez Valley, your path lined with holm oaks and picturesque farmland. From the trail, you’ll take in remarkable views of the great valley unfolding beneath the imposing shadow of the Mulhacén Peak (3479m/11,414ft), the highest summit in mainland Spain.

With your sights set on the town of Trevélez, you’ll continue the trail until you reach the village, famous for its spectacular cured ham! Trevélez, carved into the eastern slopes of Mulhacén, is an eclectic town made up of three unique neighbourhoods. Explore the communities on foot before indulging in a delicious tapa of the locally produced jamón serrano, known as the best ham in Alpujarras!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Trevélez
Distance: 6 hours, 13km, 750m of ascent, 530m of descent
Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 6 Choice of Walking Routesfrom Trevélez

Waking up in the advantageous town of Trevélez this morning means you have a choice of many walks to embark on today!

Option 1: The Sierra Nevada
Enjoy a full day of walking high into the Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Option 2: Trevélez Circuit
Enjoy a circular walk in the intriguing areas that surround Trevélez.

Option 3: Camino de Granada
Enjoy a short walk along part of the Camino de Granada, tracing the same trails of the pilgrims making their way from the south to Santiago de Compostela.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Trevélez
Distance: Option 1: 8 hours, 18 km, 1400 m of ascent, 1400 m of descent
Option 2: 5 hours, 13 km, 625 m of ascent, 625 m of descent
Option 3: 3.5 hours, 12 km, 285 m of ascent, 285 m of descent
Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day 7 Return to Granada

This morning a private transfer will take you from the Alpujarras, which you have now become thoroughly acquainted with, back to the city of Granada.

Today you’ll have a free day to explore this electric city further.

Explore the labyrinth of ancient cathedrals and monasteries, tea houses, Arab street food stalls, bohemian cafes, and so much more!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Granada
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Departure

Following a delicious final breakfast, you’ll make your way to the airport to depart.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast