GRANADA and SIERRA NEVADA

The PALACE OF CHARLES V is a Renaissance-style palace within the Alhambra complex, housing two museums: the Alhambra Museum and the Fine Arts Museum.

As an historical site, visitors are expected to show respect. Follow the instructions of the staff, do not touch any exhibits, and refrain from taking flash photography.

It can get hot during the summer, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle. Also, carry a small bag for your belongings, but note that large backpacks and bags are not allowed inside the Nasrid Palaces.

The Alhambra is not just a monument but also a serene and tranquil place. Take some time to sit in the gardens, enjoy the fountains, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

El Albaicín (also known as Albayzín or El Albayzín) is a historic neighbourhood and it is one of the most famous and well-preserved Moorish districts in the country. The district sits on a hillside opposite the Alhambra.

The history of El Albaicín dates back to the Nasrid dynasty, which ruled the Emirate of Granada from the 13th to the 15th century. During this period, the neighbourhood flourished as a residential and commercial centre. Its narrow winding streets, whitewashed houses with charming courtyards, and stunning views of the Alhambra create a unique atmosphere that attracts tourists and locals alike.

The Mirador de San Nicolás is a viewpoint offerng one of the most famous and breathtaking views of the Alhambra and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It is a popular spot to enjoy stunning sunsets.

Calle Calderería Nueva is a bustling street known for its tea shops, Arabic-style craft stores, and vibrant atmosphere. here you will experience the Moroccan influence that still remains in the neighbourhood.

A beautiful example of Nasrid architecture, is the Casa del Chapiz:  now a part of the School of Arabic Studies. It houses a stunning courtyard and a small garden.

An Arab-style bath house where visitors can enjoy traditional Arabic baths and relaxation can be found at Hammam Al Ándalus:

The church of Iglesia de San Salvador stands on the site of a former mosque and represents the mix of cultures and religions that shaped the neighbourhood over the centuries.

Overall El Albaicín is a charming and enchanting area that offers visitors a glimpse into Granada’s rich history and multicultural past. It is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this beautiful city in the Andalusian region of Spain.  Mowadays, the district remains a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its rich cultural heritage, flamenco performances, and unique cave dwellings, which often double as cultural venues and museums. In the exotic Cuevas Los Tarantos you can pre book and enjoy a wonderful night of Flamenco dance show with a drink included in the very reasonable price and you have the option of including a dinner .

Take a leisurely walk and explore the narrow streets and alleys can lead you to hidden gems and charming corners of the neighbourhood.  Don’t forget to try some of the local dishes in the various restaurants and tapas bars scattered throughout Sacromonte.

I hope that we have justified at least one overnight visit where in your hotel you can  rest up before the evenings delights.  When it comes to nighttime tapas, Granada is famous for its unique tapas culture, where you often receive a free tapa with each drink ordered at a bar. Here are some great places to enjoy nighttime tapas in Granada:

Bodegas Casteñeda is a fantastic place to experience authentic tapas in Granada! With a history dating back to 1927, it hasa rich and storied tradition of serving delicious food and wine to locals and visitors alike.  Located on Calle Almireceros, the restaurant’s prime location in Granada probably adds to its appeal, drawing in both regular patrons and tourists looking for an authentic culinary experience. Being a favorite spot for locals is always a good sign of quality and authenticity when it comes to food.

Casa Julio is undoubtedly one of the must-visit tapas bars in Granada, Spain. Established in 1947 and conveniently located just a short 3-minute walk away from the Royal Chapel of Granada, this small but renowned bar has made a name for itself with its delectable fried fish and seafood dishes.

The menu at Casa Julio boasts a variety of mouthwatering tapas, some of which are considered the best in town. Among the top recommendations are:

• Boquerones: These are fried fresh anchovies, a popular and flavorful choice for seafood enthusiasts.
• Calamares Fritos: A classic favorite, these are fried squid rings that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Croquetas Caseras: These are homemade croquettes, a traditional Spanish treat often filled with various ingredients such as ham, cheese, or mushrooms.
• Gaspacho: A refreshing cold tomato soup, perfect for cooling down during the warm days in Granada.

The combination of delicious tapas and the bar’s prime location in the heart of the city make Casa Julio a favorite among both locals and visitors alike. So, if you find yourself in Granada and looking to indulge in authentic Spanish tapas, Casa Julio on C. Hermosa, 5 should be high on your list of places to experience.

• Calle Navas: This lively street is a hub for tapas bars in Granada. You’ll find numerous bars and restaurants offering a wide variety of tapas options to choose from. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
• Plaza Nueva: This picturesque square is another great area for tapas. There are several bars and restaurants around the square where you can indulge in delicious tapas while enjoying the charming ambiance.
• El Albaicín: This historic neighbourhood is known for its narrow streets and Moorish architecture. It’s an excellent place to explore and discover authentic tapas bars serving traditional dishes.
• Calle Elvira: This street is renowned for its Moorish influence and is home to many traditional tapas bars. Wander along Calle Elvira, and you’ll find an array of enticing tapas to try.

SIERRA NEVADA

Sierra Nevada is a magnificent mountain range located 31 kilometers from the city of Granada, Spain. Its highest point is the Mulhacén peak, towering at an impressive 3,482 meters above sea level. As the third highest mountain range in Europe, Sierra Nevada boasts over 20 peaks reaching altitudes above 3000 meters, making it home to the loftiest summits on the Iberian Peninsula.

One of the main attractions in Sierra Nevada is its winter sports opportunities. Skiing is undoubtedly the most popular activity, but there is much more to enjoy for both thrill-seekers and families. Mirlo Blanco is a designated fun area within the Pradollano village, where visitors can partake in various activities. Ice skating is a great option for those seeking a different winter sport, and the Russian sled ride is sure to be a thrilling experience.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, there are other exciting winter activities available. Snowshoeing allows you to explore the stunning snowy landscape at a more leisurely pace. For nature enthusiasts, sunset excursions and stargazing offer captivating experiences in this picturesque setting.

Even if you are not interested in skiing, Sierra Nevada has plenty of options for families and children to have fun in the snow. The Mirlo Blanco area, located in the Pradollano village, is specifically designed for such activities. The best part is that you do not need to purchase a ski pass to access this area, making it convenient and budget-friendly for families.

If you want to get closer to the ski slopes without actually skiing, you can opt for a ski pass for non-skiers. The Borreguiles fun area offers exciting opportunities for children to ride snowmobiles and enjoy the thrill of sliding down the special slopes on sledges and rubber rings.

Overall, Sierra Nevada is a winter paradise, offering a wide range of activities to cater to different interests and age groups. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie seeking adventure or a family looking for snow-filled fun, Sierra Nevada has something special to offer.  Furthermore If you are an outdoor type you can go on an 8 hour guided trek from Granada Spains through largest national park The guide is fluent speaking  English and Spanish and is well informed about the area.