Pico Veleta is the second-highest summit of the Sierra Nevada at 3,396 m, in the Sierra Nevada National Park above the ski resort of Pradollano, in the province of Granada, Andalusia, Spain. The classic hiking route starts at Hoya de la Mora (about 2,500 m), the point beyond which private vehicles are not allowed, and follows the former road to Posiciones del Veleta, then a short stony ascent to the summit. Walkers can shorten the day by taking the national park microbus from Hoya de la Mora to Posiciones del Veleta when it runs, which leaves about 3 km to the top. The route is graded challenging because of altitude, distance and exposure, not technical difficulty. The ground is gravel road and loose stone with no shade. Snow can remain on the summit into June and returns from October. The summit view takes in the glacial lakes, Mulhacén and, on clear days, the Mediterranean and the African coast. There are no shops on the route, so water, food and sun protection are carried. Mobile signal is patchy. Afternoon storms are common in July and August, so walkers start early and turn back if clouds build.
| Distance | About 10–12 km one-way on foot from Hoya de la Mora; about 3 km from Posiciones del Veleta |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5–7 hours round trip on foot from Hoya de la Mora; 2–3 hours from Posiciones del Veleta |
| Difficulty | challenging |
| Best season | Late June to mid-October when snow-free |
| Address | Hoya de la Mora, Sierra Nevada, 18196 Granada, Spain (car limit at about 2,500 m) |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Sierra Nevada National Park, Hoya de la Mora (about 30 km south-east of Granada)
What to bring
Hiking boots, 2 L of water, sun hat and cream, windproof layer, map or offline GPS track
Location
Hoya de la Mora, Sierra Nevada, 18196 Granada, Spain (car limit at about 2,500 m)
37.0925, -3.3908 View on map
Highlights
- Summit at 3,396 m with views of the Sierra Nevada, Mulhacén and often the Mediterranean
- Reached on a wide former road before the final stony ascent
- Optional park microbus to cut the distance
- Reached from Granada by bus in about an hour
Tips for visiting
- Start early to finish before afternoon storms
- Check the summer microbus and road status with the Sierra Nevada National Park office before you go
- Pack a windproof layer even in August; summit temperatures can be 15°C colder than Granada
- Take at least 2 L of water and sun protection
- Avoid the summit in snow unless equipped and experienced
- Tell someone your route and download an offline map
When to visit
July to September mornings for the clearest weather; avoid afternoons because of storms.
Accessibility
The summit route is steep gravel and stone, not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Visitors with limited mobility can use the lifts and viewpoints at Pradollano in season.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How high is Veleta?
3,396 m, the second-highest peak in the Sierra Nevada after Mulhacén (3,479 m).
Can I drive to the trailhead?
Cars can go as far as Hoya de la Mora (about 2,500 m); beyond that only authorised vehicles are allowed.
How long does the hike take?
5–7 hours round trip from Hoya de la Mora, or 2–3 hours from Posiciones del Veleta if the park microbus is running.
When can I hike it?
Generally from late June to mid-October. At other times snow and ice make it a mountaineering route.