When you think of southern Spain, snow probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. Less than an hour from the sun-drenched city of Granada, Sierra Nevada stands as a surprising testament to the fact that snow can exist in southern Spain – even in the summer.
Located in one of Spain’s hottest regions, between Granada and Almería, Sierra Nevada is the southernmost ski resort in Europe. Granada, known for reaching Europe’s highest summer temperatures and abundant sunshine, often hitting 40°C, seems worlds apart from the snow-capped peaks of Sierra Nevada. Yet, with over 15 mountains over 9,842 feet and Mount Mulhacén, the highest peak on the Iberian Peninsula at 11,414 feet, snow can be seen in Sierra Nevada well into May and even June or July, depending on the year.
The high altitude means that even in summer, temperatures can drop low enough to cause snowfall, especially at the highest peaks.
The average temperature at the Pradollano ski station is 3.9C, which is significantly lower than Granada’s 15.7C and Málaga’s 18.5C, highlighting the clear contrast between the mountainous region and the coastal cities of southern Spain.
Sierra Nevada ski resort boasts over 69 miles of slopes, 23 lifts, and 320 days of sunshine annually, with 80% of its slopes located above 8,858 feet, offering excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Sierra Nevada is also home to over 2,100 plant species, snow voles, alpine accentors, and Spanish wild goats, while golden eagles and griffon vultures soar above.
Sierra Nevada offers snow nearly year-round, along with stunning rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and deep valleys, as well as the stunning Laguna de la Caldera.
These waterways feed the rivers and streams that are the lifeblood of eastern Andalusia, including the Genil, Andarax, Guadalfeo, and Guadiana Menor.
Sierra Nevada remains open year-round, offering a wide range of outdoor activities, even when there’s not enough snow for skiing.
It provides a perfect escape from the Andalusian heat with activities such as hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and cable car rides that remain open throughout the year.
