Mountain · Granada, Andaluzia
Estación de Esquí y Montaña de Sierra Nevada
The southernmost ski resort in Europe and the highest in Spain, about 30 km from Granada, with the village of Pradollano at 2,100 meters and a snow season that typically runs from December to April.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Estación de Esquí y Montaña de Sierra Nevada
The resort is within the Sierra Nevada National Park, in the municipalities of Monachil and Dílar. It is the southernmost ski resort in Europe and the highest in Spain. The service hub is Pradollano, at 2,100 meters, the highest village in Andalusia.
The resort hosted the 1996 Alpine World Ski Championships and the 2017 snowboard and freestyle skiing world championships. It has runs for various levels, ski schools, equipment rental, a sledding area and a snow park.
The season usually runs from late November or December until April, depending on snow, which can be lacking at the beginning or end.
In summer the resort offers hiking, cycling and other mountain sports. At that time there are also guided minibuses that climb from the Albergue Universitario, at 2,500 meters, up near the Veleta peak, at 3,100 meters, by reservation.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day to ski. A trip without skiing takes about half a day, including travel to and from Granada.
Best time
From January to March the snow is usually firmer. Weekends and Spanish public holidays are busy; weekdays are quieter. Confirm the pistes' opening before heading up.
How to get there
It's about 30 km via the A-395 from Granada. There is a regular bus from Granada bus station, with more departures during the ski season. By car, check road conditions before driving up in winter.
Tip
In season, buy the ski pass and the bus in advance through the official channel. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses: the altitude and snow reflection can burn even in cold weather. If you've never skied, you can book lessons at the resort's ski schools.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Estación de Esquí y Montaña de Sierra Nevada
When is the ski season in the Sierra Nevada?
It usually runs from late November or December until April, depending on the snow each year. Confirm opening before planning.
Is it possible to go to the Sierra Nevada without a car?
Yes. There are regular buses from Granada's bus station to the ski resort, with more services during the ski season.
Is it worth going to the Sierra Nevada outside of winter?
In summer the mountain offers hiking and cycling, and there are guided minibus excursions up to near the Veleta peak, by reservation.
Can someone who has never skied go?
Yes. The resort has schools with lessons for beginners, equipment rental and a sledging area for those who just want to play in the snow.
