Now that we’re starting our new lives in Granada, Southern Spain, we’ve been spending our weekends exploring the surroundings, uncovering Andalusia bit by bit.

Edged on the mountainous slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in Andalusia, the Alpujarras smells of nature and country life.

The Alpujarras is made up of fifty-odd beautiful white-washed towns, with some belonging to Granada while others stretch over to Almeria. Each village has its own characteristic traits and specialty.

Alberto’s family has a vacation home in Capileria, one of the smaller mountaintop villages just 1 hour’s drive from the city. An absolutely charming little abode, we used it as a base to seek out nearby villages.

Lanjarón

As the biggest town in the Alpujarras, Lanjarón is the gateway to Sierra Nevada and is reputed for its natural spring water. Many come to see the natural springs and taste the healing waters of Lanjarón.

Famous for its spa water and attractive white-washed architecture, Lanjarón draws in the most crowd compared to other villages. The Balneario Health Resort provides baths, massages, hydrotherapy, saunas and mud baths.

You can also find the Alpujarras Tourism Office here.

Pampaneira

As we climbed further up along the mountain range, we arrived at the Poqueira Valley, where the most picturesque trio stand: : Capileira, Bubión and Pampaneira. If you make it to the Alpujarras, don’t leave without visiting these three villages.

Pampaneira is the first village we encountered, lying at the bottom of the valley. Bustling with colorful crafts shops and tavern-style restaurants, it’s the busiest of the three. It’s an excellent stop to check out traditional Alpujarreño  products like ceramics, woven carpets and leather goods.

We treated ourselves to a platter of migas, a specialty in this part of Spain. Crisp bread crumbs fried to an aromatic mold with splatters of chorizo, green pepper and pork fats.

Bubión and Capileira

Bubión is slightly further up the slope, with its massive square church tower standing on a plaza of rough paving stones. Walking along the main road through the village, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the valley and surrounding villages.

To see the authentic Alpujarras, head to Capileira at the top of the valley – the name is an Arabic derivation of the Latin word for head or top. You’ll find yourself wandering through steep cobblestoned paths, past villager’s gates and below overhanging flowers and dried peppers. Visit the Museum of Alpujarreño Artisan for a deeper look into their culture.

Pitres

After passing the village of Orgiva, the capital of the region, we reached Pitres, home to several rustic bed and breakfasts including La Oveja Verde with a country-style charm and unobstructed vistas.

Here, slopes climb steeply, leading to overhanging terraces and bright red hibiscus crawling up its vines.

The town revolves around its main square, slightly elevated to give an unrivalled view of the mountainous region. At Restaurante Carretera, we tucked into a filling meal – the Plato Alpujarreño consisting of jamon serano (Spanish ham), chorizo and morcilla (blood sausage), topped with fried eggs.

Where to stay: Casa Rural

In these towns, you’ll be better off staying at casa rurales, rustic country-style houses decorated with bohemian touches and located in the campo (fields).

Alberto’s family vacation house just 3 minutes from Pitres is one such characteristic hut. A grand chimney, ceramic flooring, and a balcony that is perfect for star-gazing by night.

Check out La Oveja Verde for affordable apartments with a great view.

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