Sierra Nevada is Spain's southernmost ski resort and the highest mountain range on the Iberian Peninsula, rising above Granada, with Mulhacén at 3,479 metres the highest peak. The resort village of Pradollano (about 2,100 metres) is about 32 km from the city by the A-395, and the road climbs in 45 to 60 minutes by car. Alsa runs coaches from the Granada bus station to the resort, taking about 1 hour at roughly €5 to €7 each way.
In winter (roughly December to April, snow permitting) the draw is skiing and snowboarding on the pistes, with lift passes, rental and lessons sold at the resort. In summer and autumn the cable cars, chairlifts and trails give access to hiking at high altitude, including routes towards Veleta, and mountain-bike routes. The weather can turn quickly at altitude, and temperatures at the resort are much lower than in Granada, so warm layers matter in every season.
| Distance | About 32 km south-east of Granada |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 45 to 60 minutes by car; about 1 hour by coach |
| Getting there | Alsa coach from the Estación de Autobuses to Pradollano (about 1 hour, about €5–€7 (~$5.75–$8.05) one-way; check alsa.com) |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Plaza de Pradollano, 18196 Sierra Nevada, Granada |
How to get there
- Alsa coach (about 1 hour, alsa.com)
- Rental car via A-395 (about 45 to 60 minutes)
Location
Plaza de Pradollano, 18196 Sierra Nevada, Granada
37.0969, -3.3963 View on map
Highlights
- Skiing and snowboarding at Pradollano in winter
- High-altitude hiking toward Veleta in summer
- Views over the Sierra Nevada National Park
- Lifts, chairlifts and mountain-bike routes
- Cool mountain air during hot Granada summers
Tips for visiting
- Check snow and lift conditions on sierranevada.es before leaving.
- Bring warm layers, sun cream and sunglasses at any time of year.
- In winter, carry snow chains or check road restrictions on the A-395.
- Reserve lift passes and rental online for weekends.
- Confirm the last coach back to Granada.
When to visit
December to April for skiing; June to September for hiking.
Accessibility
Resort facilities include adapted services; the high trails are uneven and not suitable for wheelchairs.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How far is Sierra Nevada from Granada?
About 32 km; 45 to 60 minutes by car and about 1 hour by coach.
When is the ski season?
Typically December to April, depending on snow.
Is Sierra Nevada worth visiting in summer?
Yes. Lifts and trails give access to high-altitude walking and cooler temperatures.
Do I need a car?
No. Alsa coaches serve the resort, but a car gives more flexibility.