Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada Travel Guide
A special bonus point of “the Marbella way of living” is situated 2,5 hours driving from Marbella. The Sierra Nevada ski resort. Founded in 1964, this ski resort is located at an altitude of 2100 meters. Being one of the highest ski resorts in Europe, this means great snow all winter long. On a clear day you can see the Costa del Sol, Gibraltar and North Africa across the shimmering waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The season traditionally starts in November and lasts until May, but it can start a little earlier if the weather allows. At the altitude of 1,200m skiers and snowboarders of all physical levels are literally being spoilt by the excellent infrastructure of the resort: 21 elevators and 110km of perfect slopes ranging from green to black. In no time you can reach the highest ski point – Pico Veleta at 3300m altitude.
One of the big advantages of skiing in the Sierra Nevada is that it is very family friendly. Apart from the ski lessons with professional instructors, there are also numerous outdoor activities for children and parents.
If you don’t like skiing, then there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the mountains. Take a trip on a snowmobile or a dog sleigh, climb to the top of Pico Veleta with a snow machine and watch the magnificent sunrise.
The après-ski possibilities are also on the top level. The most exclusive place to enjoy them all is at the Lodge Ski & Spa. Not only does it offer a ski-in/ski-out facility, but also it has wonderful restaurants, bars and game rooms for kids of all ages.
All of this is a part of a lifestyle on the Costa del Sol where the focus is being made on every aspect of a modern life.
Tips for skiing / snowboarding:
– Arrive early to avoid traffic jams. The elevators open at 9am and close at 16pm.
– Order your ski pass online. It will save you a great amount of time, however to get it for the first time you will have to stand in line, but afterwards you can recharge it online.
– Check the weather conditions. The wind can be a game changer on the higher altitudes. As a result the higher elevators may be closed, making the lower slopes overcrowded.
– Have an early lunch. After 2pm you will be rushing to the restaurant together with the rest of Spain.
– There is no other ski area in Europe that has as many sun hours as the Sierra Nevada. So don’t forget to bring your sunscreen with an ultra-high protection level.
– Snow chains on the wheels are mandatory if it has been heavy snowing. Be aware of the police controls.
– Because of the high altitude drinking a lot is essential. Preferably water 🙂
