LA ALPUJARRA is a diverse place of contrasts – from the ancient water channels and traditional farming methods to the modern hospitality and tourism industry that welcomes visitors with open arms (and bottles). While you’re visiting the area on holiday – or just a day trip – there are various places and pursuits that you shouldn’t miss.
South of Granada has compiled a list of 10 of the best ones (although it is by no means exhaustive!)…
1. Tasting the ‘tapas’
When you arrive in La Alpujarra, you really must try the local ‘tapas’. This is a small plate of free food served with qualifying drinks (generally not chocolate ‘batidos’ or ‘agua con gas’). Many people take ‘tapa’ with the local wine known as ‘costavin’, ‘vino costa’, or even just ‘costa’. You can also enjoy your ‘tapa’ with a cool ‘cerveza’ (the local Alhambra beer is arguably the best!). Some regional ‘tapas’ include ‘carne con salsa’ (meat in sauce), ‘gambas’ (prawns), ‘jamón serrano’ (cured ham), ‘migas’ (a dish made from fried breadcrumbs or semola grain), and ‘ensaladilla rusa’ (Russian salad).
2. Walking along waterways
Take a walk along an ‘acequia’ – an ancient water channel for irrigation, dating to Moorish times (although Romans were also said to build them). Some towns, including the spa town of Lanjarón, have signposted, circular ‘acequia’ walks for tourists to enjoy. When you’ve finished, you can view some of the beautiful fountains bearing poems written by Frederico Garcia Lorca. Remember: water is life!
3. Dipping in natural pools
Visit a cold dip pool to beat the heat and enjoy a beautiful sight. The waterfall below Pampaneira comes highly recommended by local people and there are many other similar attractions in the area. In summer, you can take a natural dip below the Seven Eye Bridge in Órgiva and below the bridge in Trevélez . (While you’re in the latter, check out the local industry of ‘jamón serrano’).
4. Bargain hunting at Órgiva Thursday market
It would be a shame not to visit Órgiva Thursday market at least once. This takes place in the town’s central carpark, with a secondary artisanal market in the plaza nearby. Here, you can buy everything from fruit and veg to clothes for 1-2e. When you’re finished bargain hunting, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the nearby Baraka restaurant. This has won awards and is run by friendly Sufi Muslims. The chicken ‘Shawarma’ (kebab) is a firm favourite.
5. Visiting ancient forest and centenary trees
Walk through an ancient forest. You’re spoilt for choice in La Alpujarra. Órgiva has a marked route to view centenary olive trees, as well as a cool Eucalyptus wood near the Rio Guadalfeo. Above Cáñar , the Puente Palo forestry recreation area is ideal for a day trip – you can enjoy shaded picnic tables and nearby walks through the pine forest. The Sierra de Contreviesa has an ancient cork oak forest which is easy to reach from the A4131, near Haza del Lino. Just remember not to set any fires!
6. Tripping the witchy theme at Soportújar
Take a trip to Soportújar, the renowned witchy village, if only to see what all the fuss is about! This is Granada’s most Googled destination and has a spooky theme park vibe. Children are sure to love it! It’s advisable to avoid peak times, such as Sunday lunchtimes and ‘puentes’ (bank holidays). One local girl said “it is fun to trip in Soportújar” – we have no idea what she means!
7. Saddling up to ride off the beaten track
Go for a horse ride – this will enable you to see beautiful sights “off the beaten track” that you would not spot from a car. There are various riding establishments in the area, including Caballo Blanco above Lanjarón, Pegasus in Órgiva, and Dallas Love’s Sierra Trails in Capileira. They all cater for everything from single, novice riders to experienced groups. You can book anything from a 2hr trek to a riding holiday.
8. Experiencing a traditional village fiesta
You really haven’t lived until you’ve seen a traditional Alpujarran village fiesta or ‘feria‘ in full flow – usually with revellers participating 24hrs a day! Invariably, everyone from the youngest to the oldest residents in town come out and celebrate together in the village plaza and nearby streets. Some of the best-known fiestas in La Alpujarra are San Juan in Lanjarón on 23 June, with its mass water fight, and the Fiesta del Marranillo de San Antón fire festival in Torvizcon in the second weekend of January. Really, these town fiestas occur all year round and it’s difficult to miss them!
9. Hiking the ancient GR7 trail
You’d be mising out if you left the area without walking along part of the GR7 hiking trail. This is the famous and ancient path that runs from Tarifa to Andorra, and France – and traverses La Alpujarra. You can choose various stretches or attempt the whole thing! A popular stretch is between Lanjarón and Cáñar, then Cáñar to Soportújar, and you could then head on to Pampaneira, Pitres, Portugos, Trevélez , and beyond. Be sure to take proper hiking boots, snacks, and water.
10. Admiring the fantastic flora
In La Alpujarra, we’re treated annually to a colourful display of blooms. It starts with the almond blossom in January and February and then on to the gorse and oleanders of spring. We also have a wealth of daisies, thistles, poppies, dandelions – and too many other flowers to mention! Fields of blooms are a delight for the budding photographer, especially at sunrise and sunset. Some flora is particular to the high Sierra Nevada. An interpretation centre in Pampaneira can provide information on the full range, and where to go.
