There is something truly special about standing on top of a mountain, breathing in the crisp alpine air while the sun warms your face and the snow sparkles in every direction.
Some friends of Globefellas recently sent us a photo from Sierra Nevada – two big smiles behind mirrored goggles, blue skies stretching endlessly above, and a winter landscape that almost feels surreal. This is what winter in southern Spain is supposed to look like.
Where is Sierra Nevada?
Sierra Nevada is located in Andalusia in southern Spain, just 30 km from the historic city of Granada. It’s home to mainland Spain’s highest peak, Mulhacén (3,479 m), and one of Europe’s southernmost ski resorts.
What makes it unique?
Over 300 days of sunshine per year
High altitude = reliable snow conditions
Around 110 km of slopes
The rare ability to combine skiing and Mediterranean coastal life in one trip
“You look up and see snow-covered peaks,” they told us, “but you feel the warmth of southern Spain on your face. It’s a different kind of winter.”
The Ski Experience – Relaxed, Fun & Scenic
The main resort village, Pradollano, is compact and lively without feeling overwhelming. The slopes cater to everyone – from beginners finding their rhythm to experienced skiers chasing speed on long red runs.
Our friends mentioned how surprisingly modern and well-maintained everything felt. Lift systems are efficient, queues manageable outside peak Spanish holiday weeks, and the snowpark is popular with younger riders.
And then there’s the light. That Andalusian glow that turns late afternoon skiing into something almost cinematic.
Hotels & Accommodation
Sierra Nevada offers a good range of accommodation:
Ski-in/ski-out hotels in Pradollano
Mid-range apartments perfect for groups
Boutique-style mountain hotels
Luxury options with spa facilities
Price levels (approximate winter season rates):
Budget apartments: €100–180 per night
3–4 star hotels: €180–350 per night
Higher-end/luxury hotels: €350+ per night
For those staying on the coast around Higuerón, many choose to combine beachside comfort with 1–2 ski days in the mountains – a very Globefellas way to travel.
Restaurants & Après-Ski
The food scene is pleasantly Andalusian:
Traditional tapas bars
Mountain grills serving Iberian meats
Casual pizzerias and burger spots
Fine dining options in select hotels
Lunch on the mountain typically costs €15–25 per person.
Dinner in the village ranges from €20–40 per person depending on venue and wine choices.
Our friends told us about long sunny lunches on outdoor terraces – ski boots still on, sunglasses reflecting snow and sky, sharing plates of jamón and local wine or beer. “It doesn’t feel rushed like the Alps,” they said. “It feels… Spanish.”
Ski Rental & Lift Pass Prices
Renting equipment is easy. Rental shops are located throughout Pradollano and near the main lifts.
Approximate prices per day:
Standard ski package (skis, boots, poles): €25–35
Premium/performance skis: €35–50
Snowboard packages: similar pricing
Helmet: €5–10
A daily lift pass typically costs around €55–65 depending on season and demand.
Booking online in advance often gives better prices, especially during peak weeks.
How to Get to Sierra Nevada from Higuerón and Malaga
Higuerón sits beautifully on the Costa del Sol between Fuengirola and Benalmádena and about 20 km from Malaga.
By Car (Easiest Option)
Approx. 2–2.5 hours
A-7 toward Málaga → A-92 toward Granada → follow signs to Sierra Nevada
Perfect for a day trip or a weekend mountain escape.
By Train + Transfer
Train from Málaga to Granada (approx. 1.5 hours)
Taxi or bus from Granada to the resort (approx. 45 minutes)
For small groups, we at Globefellas often recommend private transfers – comfortable, efficient, and ideal if traveling with ski equipment.
A Destination of Contrasts
One of the things our friends emphasized most was the contrast. “Yesterday we had dinner by the sea. Today we’re skiing above the clouds.”
That’s Sierra Nevada in a nutshell. Mountains and Mediterranean. Snow and sunshine. Tapas and technical runs.
It’s not just a ski trip – it’s a layered Spanish experience.