The Alpujarras: Moorish Towns Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains
The Alpujarras: A Cultural Mosaic Nestled in the Heart of Andalusia, Spain
Mountains | Villages | Nature | History | Hiking
Discover the Beauty and History of The Alpujarras: An Enchanting Region Nestled in the Heat of Andalusia, Spain
Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, The Alpujarras is an enchanting region in Spain’s Southern province of Andalusia. Famous for its Roman origins and Moorish rich cultural history, architecture, stunning landscapes, hiking, local artisan crafts, fresh goods and restaurants. Charming unique white-washed villages with chimneys, The Alpujarras breathtaking views provides a captivating experience for every traveler. From seeing the Mediterranean Sea on a clear day, to visiting the chocolate factory, visiting their craft breweries, buying artisan rugs and souvenirs to eating under cherry trees with nothing but nature around you. Surely you will love Las Alpujarras!
The GR7 and Hiking Trails
The Alpujarras is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. The region offers numerous trails with diverse difficulty levels, all providing stunning views of the Sierra Nevada, terraced farmlands, and picturesque villages. One of the most popular hiking routes in The Alpujarras is the CR7 trail, which winds through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region, passing through several white villages along the way.
THE RICH HISTORY OF THE ALPUJARRAS
The history of The Alpujarras is as vibrant as its landscapes. From Romans who discovered five natural springs in the area to the Moorish influence and enduring legacy of its Berber inhabitants, The Alpujarras bears testament to the blend of cultures that have shaped this region over centuries.
Breathtaking Views and Must See Attractions in The Alpujarras
The Alpujarras with more than 70 km (40+ miles) stretch of valleys, winding roads that connect the villages, each having their unique enchantment. An array of experiences from the chocolate factory in Pampaneira, brewery, artisan crafts, restaurants and bars to Serrano ham production in Trevélez you just can’t miss this. Pórtugos with its 5 spring waters and water fall. Did we mention walking up and down Soportujar seeing all it’s cool sculptures popping out around the town that is known for witches?
Legacy of the Moors
Boabdil, the last Moorish King was granted a fiefdom by the reigning Catholic Kings, Ferdinand and Isabella, in the region of Las Alpujarras lying at the South-Western end of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and he left Granada by the Southern route. By doing this they spared his life.
Since then the most profound influences in The Alpujarras are by the Moors, whose architectural, agricultural, and cultural imprints can still be witnessed today. Moorish irrigation systems, terraced fields, and traditional Berber houses with chimneys known as ‘launa’ are prevalent throughout the region. The launa is a slate clay that is utilized in The Alpujarras constructions lasting years, creating a barrier of waterproofing of the houses and protecting them; offering shelter, stability, culture for over 40,000 inhabitants.
WHITE VILLAGES OF THE ALPUJARRA: PAMPANEIRA, BUBION, CAPILEIRA
The white villages often referred to as ‘pueblos blancos’ of The Alpujarras composed of gems such as Pampaneira, Bubión and Capileira which are a must-visit.
Their narrow, winding streets, whitewashed houses with flat clay roofs, and flower-filled balconies offer a snapshot of the region’s Moorish past. Villagers are extremely nice and welcome tourism selling their artisan crafts and tapestries. Start the hike in Capileira in the Mirador de Sierra Nevada observation deck for a breathtaking view. Descend from Capileira to Bubión either walking or by car and eat under cherry trees while looking around a beautiful landscape. Breathing in pure air is a must. After Bubión stop by and tour the chocolate factory in Pampaneira and don’t forget to drink the water in the local fountain and read the message. Plenty of shops to walk into, buy souvenirs, fresh goods or have a café either inside or outside.
Portugos
This village has spring water with 5 different spouts coming the snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Besides pure natural mountain mineral water, two of the springs are with natural gas and also with iron. A menu of water in one source. The famous sour source is said to have healing properties. The unique waterfall here is a must see as well.
Soportujar
This village is known for its witches. Hiding in every corner you can walk around and see magical sculptures placed throughout. Check out the walls of houses, inopportune places for art and statues. The tourist will have to decide if the town is really haunted. Great for families!
TREVELEZ
This famous village is at the foot of the base of the highest peak of Spain’s mainland peninsula, Mount Mulhacen with the river Trevélez flowing through it. Known for its Serrano ham processing and curing facilities you can tour and see the original traditional salting and drying methods utilized till this day without preservatives and conservatives. One of Spain’s National delicacies, this leg of ham can be found in restaurants and bars and almost every kitchen whether residential or commercial in Spain. The first written references for Serrano ham date back to the Roman Empire.
