Day Trip to Sierra Nevada from Malaga: Complete Guide (2026)

Looking for a day trip to Sierra Nevada from Malaga? We left just after sunrise for one of our regular, and favourite, day trips from Malaga.

We barely had time to finish our coffee, cruising past orange groves and olive trees. Within two hours, sky and landscape had shifted completely: rolling fields gave way to jagged peaks dusted in snow. In July.

Sierra Nevada is wild like that: Spain's highest mountains hiding just inland from the Mediterranean coast. And standing beneath white summits with sleeves rolled up? Always worth it.

Here's everything we did in that one unforgettable day, and everything you need to do it too.

What to Expect on a Day Trip to Sierra Nevada

• A swift transition: beachside to mountaintop in under two hours
• Year-round appeal: skiing in winter, hiking in summer, crisp air in autumn
• A peaceful escape from the bustle of Malaga and Granada
• Panoramic beauty at every turn
• Spain's highest road and southernmost ski resort in Europe

Whether you're chasing snow or silence, the Sierra Nevada deserves your time. Even one day here is a treat.

How to Get to Sierra Nevada from Malaga

By Car (Recommended)

The most flexible option for a day trip. Take the A-92 toward Granada, then follow signs to Sierra Nevada/Pradollano.

Route: Malaga - A-92 - Granada bypass - A-395 to Sierra Nevada Distance: 160 km Drive time: Approximately 2 hours Tolls: None Parking: Available at Pradollano (paid in ski season)

By Organised Tour

Perfect if you'd rather avoid mountain driving, though you'll sacrifice flexibility. Tours typically include transport, a guide, and sometimes ski passes or hiking guides.

Pros: No driving stress, local knowledge included Cons: Fixed schedule, less time to explore freely Cost: 50-80 euros per person

By Bus

Technically possible but time-consuming for a day trip.

You'd need to take a bus from Malaga to Granada (approximately 2 hours), then another bus from Granada to Sierra Nevada (approximately 1 hour). Better saved for overnight stays.

Best Time to Visit Sierra Nevada

Winter (December to April)

Best for: Skiing, snowboarding, snow play

The ski season typically runs from late November to early May, depending on snowfall. Peak season is January to March when snow conditions are most reliable.

Spring (May to June)

Best for: Wildflowers, mild hiking

The snow melts gradually, revealing alpine meadows.

Higher trails may still have snow patches. Perfect for photography.

Summer (July to September)

Best for: High-altitude hiking, escaping the heat

While the coast swelters at 35C+, Sierra Nevada offers cool mountain air. The highest trails are accessible, and you can hike to Mulhacen, mainland Spain's highest peak.

Autumn (October to November)

Best for: Autumn colours, quiet trails, Alpujarra villages

October brings rich hues to the forests. Fewer crowds than summer, perfect temperatures for hiking, and the whitewashed villages of the Alpujarras are at their most photogenic.

Things to Do in Sierra Nevada

Winter Activities

Skiing and Snowboarding

From December through early April, Pradollano buzzes with activity. The resort has over 100 km of pistes across all difficulty levels. Download the official Sierra Nevada ski resort guide to check routes, webcams, and prices.

We rented ski gear upon arrival, which was a bit of a headache, and then headed to Sulayr Snowpark to watch everything from beginners to seasoned freeriders.

Ski pass prices (approximate):

• Day pass: 45-55 euros (varies by season)
• Equipment rental: 25-35 euros per day
• Lessons: From 50 euros for group sessions

Snow Play Without Skiing

No gear? No problem.

Mirlo Blanco park nearby has sledges, snow bikes, and a friendly vibe where you can enjoy the snow without paying for ski passes. Perfect for families or anyone who just wants to play in the snow.

Summer Activities

Hiking Trails

In warmer months, the mountains open wide. Popular options include:

• Laguna de las Yeguas: 4 km round-trip from Hoya de la Mora. Perfect for a picnic with glacial lake views.
• Vereda de la Estrella: A classic Sierra Nevada trail with jaw-dropping views of Mulhacen and Veleta. Longer but relatively gradual.
• Dehesa del Camarate: Forest path, especially enchanting in autumn.

Use Trek Sierra Nevada to find the perfect hike for your level.

Cable Car Rides

Even in summer, the ski lifts operate for sightseers. Take the Borreguiles cable car for panoramic views without the hike.

Year-Round Activities

Visit the Alpujarra Villages

About 45 minutes from Sierra Nevada's south side, the Alpujarras offer whitewashed villages clinging to hillsides, slow-travel vibes, and mountain cuisine. We drove through Pampaneira, Bubion, and Capileira, then lingered over a mountain-style lunch.

Granada Day Trip Combination

Swing by Granada on your return. A walk thr

ough the Albaicin with tapas in hand is a fitting finale. The city is on the route back to Malaga anyway.

What to Pack for Sierra Nevada

Sample Day Trip Itinerary

Leave Malaga: 7:00-8:00am (earlier in summer to maximise daylight) Arrive Sierra Nevada: 9:00-10:00am Morning: Skiing, hiking, or exploring Pradollano village Lunch: Mountain restaurant in Pradollano or packed picnic Afternoon: Continue activities or drive to Alpujarra villages Optional: Stop in Granada for tapas on return Return to Malaga: 7:00-9:00pm

Costs Summary

Tips for Your Day Trip

• Leave early: The earlier you leave Malaga, the more time you'll have in the mountains
• Check conditions: In winter, always check webcams and weather before driving
• Fill up on fuel: Petrol stations become sparse in the mountains
• Book ski gear in advance: Rental shops get busy in peak season
• Bring cash: Some mountain vendors don't accept cards
• Layer up: Temperature can vary 15-20 degrees between base and summit