The Sierra Nevada is Europe’s second-highest mountain range and towers over southern Spain. Much of this dramatic landscape is a protected biosphere reserve, rich in wildlife and home to many endemic plant species. Here, and in the neighbouring Alpujarra region, we are rewarded with some of the finest walking in Andalucia; from ancient chestnut forests to lavender and broom-clad moorland and white-washed Moorish villages. A night in the city of Granada, home to the magnificent Alhambra Palace, is the perfect end to the week.

On this walking adventure in Spain, we mostly stay at a family-run hotel in Berchules. Our final night is spent in Granada, at a three-star city centre hotel. Below are the properties we typically use:



Berchules: Hotel Los Berchules (nights 1-6)







Our time in the rural village of Berchules is spent at this welcoming 14-room hotel run by Alejandro Tamborero and Csilla Gajo. It has a swimming pool (open seasonally, usually June to September) in the garden and there's a lounge-bar with a fireplace. The 35-seat dining room serves regional cuisine and there's a selection of local and Spanish wines to work through.



Granada: Hotel Dauro 2 (night 7)







On the last night, we normally stay in this three-star hotel in Granada old town, a 15-minute walk from the Alhambra. It has a bar specialising in wine, meats and tapas, plus a meditation room for relaxation and a quiet moment to reflect on the trip.



Worth knowing



In Berchules, single rooms are available at no charge (subject to availability) – these rooms are small and basic, without a view, but have private bathrooms. Single rooms are limited at Hotel Dauro 2 but can be requested at the time of booking for a supplement.