Hiking trip in the Alpujarras

About this tour

Discover the magic of the Alpujarras and Sierra Nevada on an unforgettable 8-day hiking adventure.

Start in the high mountain village of Trevélez, famous for its whitewashed houses and world-class jamón.

Follow ancient trails through canyons, hidden valleys, and mountain plains, with options to conquer Mulhacén, the highest peak in mainland Spain, or enjoy gentler scenic walks.

Charming villages like Capileira, Ferreirola, and Pampaneira welcome you with authentic culture, vibrant atmospheres, and stunning views.

Along the way, you’ll explore wild landscapes, Buddhist retreats, lush forests, and high meadows alive with mountain goats and alpine flowers. End your journey with a heart full of memories and easy connections to Malaga, Granada or Almería.

Highlights

Trevélez – Spain’s highest village, renowned for its Moorish heritage, whitewashed charm, and world-famous jamón.
Varied hikes – from gentle circular walks to the challenging ascent of Mulhacén (3,478 m), the highest peak in mainland Spain.
Hidden valleys & canyons – explore wild landscapes like the Noguera Valley, Poqueira Canyon, and lush high mountain meadows.
Authentic villages – discover the atmosphere of Capileira, Pampaneira, Ferreirola, and Mecina Fondales, each with their own traditions and charm.
O Sel Ling Buddhist retreat – a unique cultural stop with spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada.
Wildlife & nature – spot mountain goats, walk along ancient irrigation canals, and enjoy abundant alpine flora.
Local flavors – delicious tapas, regional wines, and traditional mountain hospitality.
Comfortable logistics – luggage transfers, optional shorter walks, and convenient departures from Malaga, Granada or Almería.

Included/Excluded

Welcome meeting in English
7 nights in rural hotel accommodation
7 breakfasts
All transfers during the tour, as described in the programme.
Offline app link with all tracks, maps and information
Optional: maps and information in paper format + GPS with all tracks: 35€ per package and GPS.
Detailed information about the area
Luggage transport between hotels
24h emergency number

Flights
Drinks
Lunch
Dinner
Activities or services not mentioned in the program
Transfer to Trevelez
Transfer to Granada
Local taxes
Tourist tax

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Trevelez

Your journey begins in Trevelez. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, it is one of the highest villages in Spain, sitting at an altitude of approximately 1,476 meters (4,842 feet) above sea level. This lofty position affords the village breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as a cool, crisp climate, which has significantly influenced its culture and economy. Trevélez has a rich history, with roots that can be traced back to the Moorish period in Spain. The village's layout, with its narrow, winding streets and whitewashed houses, reflects its Moorish past. The residents of Trevélez have maintained many of the traditions and customs of the Alpujarras, including their distinctive architecture and agricultural practices. Take your time to visit this tranquil village and enjoy some of the best tapas and “jamon” of Spain.

Day 2: Lobrás - Trevelez

15.0 km

lesser-known part of the Alpujarras

Distance:15.0 km

A transfer (35min) takes us to the village of Lobrás. Following the GR7, this itinerary takes you through the lesser-known part of the Alpujarras. You slowly climb in high plains to the village of Timar and Juviles. We have spectacular views over the canyon below, the high mountains of the Sierra Nevada and the white villages nestled against the mountain flanks. After 8 km of climbing, we descend through lush forest towards the village of Trevelez.

Day 3: Trevelez

3 different circular walks

Today you can choose from 3 different circular walks that start and finish in Trevelez. They range from very demanding to medium level hikes. Option 1: Mulhacén (3478m): the highest mountain of the Spanish Peninsula Option 2: The hidden valley of Noguera Option 3: The summit of Peñabon (2002m)

Day 4: Trevelez to Capileira

19.0 km

Crossing the mountains

Distance:19.0 km

You leave Trevelez via the GR7 path. An easy climb through pine forest and open meadows takes you very quickly above the village and soon you will be surrounded by high mountain plains and marvellous views over the high Alpujarras region. After 5 km of fairly easy climbing, the path becomes steeper and crosses the high plains into the next valley, where the village of Capileira, your end destination lies. After a long day in the mountains, Capileira is a delight: great atmosphere, great people, great food.

Day 5: Capilerilla: Circular Walk

13.0 km

The Taha villages

Distance:13.0 km

A short transfer (20 min) takes you to the village of Mecina Fondales. The ancient path descends towards the impressive canyon that you cross via an ancient bridge. The stone path now climbs along the other side of the canyon and offers stunning views of the villages. The narrow path connects with a wide trail that gradually ascends towards an ancient farmhouse, where you take the narrow path that descends back into the canyon. You arrive at Ferreirola, a smaller and even more secluded village known for its peaceful atmosphere and traditional architecture. In Ferreirola, you can choose to continue towards Mecina Fondales along the ancient path or along the easier route along the road (no traffic). A transfer will bring you back to Capileira.

Day 6: Capileira circular walk

17.0 km

The Bhuddist centre of O Sel Ling

Distance:17.0 km

Shorter alternative: distance: 12,5km, elevation gain: 582m (transfer from Pampaneira to Capileira to avoid the last climb) The itinerary starts in Capileira and descends to the river Poqueira but then climbs up through terraced mountains of olive groves towards the Bhuddist centre of O Sel Ling, which you can visit. From the Bhuddist Centre, you descend to the village of Pampaneira. Here you can either take a transfer back to Capileira to avoid the last climb, or decide to climb the 4 km and 400m to Capileira.

Day 7: Capileira

17.0 km

The canyon of the river Poqueira

Distance:17.0 km

You start your walk via the path that leads you to the old power plant (4km). Here, the path ascends into the canyon of the river Poqueira. You will cross this river several times. The path climbs out of the canyon and you will walk through high meadow plains. In front you can see the impressive peaks of Mulhacén and La Veleta. You reach an old stone shed where the path climbs further until you reach an ancient canal. You follow the canal until you reach a wider path that takes you back to Capileira. Wild mountain goats and high mountain flora are abundant in this part of the Alpujarras.

Day 8: End of the tour

After breakfast, your journey concludes with a public bus ride to either Granada or Almería. Both cities offer frequent connections to other major Spanish cities.