When you think about southern Spain, snow is probably not the first thing that comes to mind. Sierra Nevada takes less than an hour from the sunny city of Granada. Sierra Nevada stands as amazing evidence of the fact that snow can exist in southern Spain, even in summer.
Situated in one of Spain's hottest regions between Granada and Almeria, Sierra Nevada is Europe's southernmost ski resort. Known for reaching Europe's highest summer temperatures and abundant sunlight, Granada often hits 40°C, making it seem like a world apart from the snowy peaks of Sierra Nevada. However, with over 15 mountains, over 9,842 feet, and Mount Murjasen, the highest peak on the Iberian Peninsula, at 11,414 feet, snow is visible in Sierra Nevada until May and June or July.
Highlands mean that even in summer, especially at their peaks, the drop may drop sufficiently to cause snowfall.
The average temperature at the Pradorano ski station is 3.9c, significantly lower than Granada's 15.7c and Malaga's 18.5c, highlighting a clear contrast between the mountainous regions and coastal cities in southern Spain.
The Sierra Nevada Ski Resort boasts over 69 miles of slopes, 23 lifts and 320 days of sunlight each year. 80% of its slopes exceed 8,858 feet, providing optimal conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
As a UNESCO biosphere reserve, Sierra Nevada also has over 2,100 plant species, snow vols, alpine accents, and wild Spanish goats, with Golden Eagles and Griffon Vultures soaring up.
Sierra Nevada offers snow almost all year round, along with stunning rivers, lakes, waterfalls, deep valleys and the stunning Laguna de la caldera.
These waterways supply rivers and streams, the lifelines of East Andalusia, including the heavenly gen, Andalax, Guadalfeo and Menor of Guadiana.
Sierra Nevada is open all year round and offers a wide range of outdoor activities even if there is not enough snow for skiing.
Activities like hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, cable car rides provide the perfect escape from Andalusia's heat.
