Pradollanolocated in the province of Granada, is the highest town in Spain, with an altitude of 2,078 meters above sea level. This town, which is part of the municipality of Monachil, is located in the in the heart of the Sierra Nevadaone of the main mountain ranges of the Iberian Peninsula. Founded in the 1960s as a sports area dedicated to skiing, Pradollano has become a first class tourist destinationIts biggest attraction is the Sierra Nevada ski resort, which welcomes thousands of visitors every winter with its top-quality ski slopes and modern facilities.
In addition to winter sports, Pradollano offers superb panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and serves as a starting point for excursions and outdoor activities throughout the year. Its exceptional altitude gives it a unique climate and ecosystem, making it a fascinating place for nature and mountain lovers. With a variety of holiday accommodations available, it is an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the beauty and activities of the high mountains.
Pradollano, the highest town in Spain
Pradollano, officially known as Sierra Nevada, is a region located in the municipality of Monachilin the province of Granada. Located at 2,078 meters above sea level, it is the highest population center in Spain.
This city, part of the region of Vega of Granadais surrounded by the towns of Canales, Pinos Genil and Güéjar Sierra. Pradollano is the only inhabited area of the Sierra Nevada ski resort and offers all the main services of the resort, which include 4,500 hotel beds and an influx of up to 14,000 visitors per day during the winter season.
Founded with the ski resort in 1964, Pradollano developed around the square that bears its name. The resort was initially developed by the Granada City Hall on land acquired from the Adorable Nuns, and the inhabited nucleus expanded mainly towards the top of the mountain. The expansion carried out on the occasion of the 1995 Alpine Ski World Championships, which included the creation of the Plaza de Andalucía, the current centre of life at the resort, was an important step in its development.
The layout of Pradollano is organized around a single main street that winds along the mountainside, with buildings mainly intended for accommodation and services for skiers. During the low season, the activity of the town decreases, although it remains a key point for tourists. mountain sportsIn 2023, Pradollano had 298 registered inhabitants, most of whom are workers linked to the ski area.
Plans and gastronomy
Pradollano, located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, offers a complete experience for snow and winter sports lovers. From the early hours of the day, the town is full of activity, with ski slopes and schools dedicated to all levels. With around 110 kilometres of slopes, Pradollano is an ideal place for skiing.
For those who do not want to ski, in the Sierra Nevada you can do a multitude of activities, such as snowshoeingan adventure park with zip lines and suspension bridges, and spa centers to relax after an active day. Families with children will find slides and sleds in the Mirlo Blanco activity park.
In summer, Pradollano transforms into a fabulous destination for trekking and mountain bikewith excursions to high mountain lakes and visits to the El Dornajo visitor centre. Pradollano’s gastronomy combines traditional Andalusian dishes such as Olla de San Antón and Trevélez ham, with lighter dishes and delicious homemade desserts.
Sierra Nevada
Sierra Nevada, located between the provinces of Granada and Almeriais the highest mountain range in Western Europe after the Alps. With its highest point at the Mulhacén peak at 3,479 metres above sea level, this massif is part of the Penibetic system of the Baetic mountain ranges. In 1986 it was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO and in 1999 it became a national park for its rich biodiversity.
Formed during the The Alpine orogeny in the Tertiary eraSierra Nevada is a refuge for endemic plant and animal species due to its isolation and altitude. Its ski resort, the southernmost in Europe and the highest in the Iberian Peninsula, began to develop in the 1960s, hosting the Alpine Ski World Championships and hosting major international events, including the 2015 Universiade.
He Climate of Sierra Nevada It is characterized by its altitudinal extent and relative aridity, with temperatures that vary considerably with altitude. The region receives precipitation mainly in the form of snow in winter.
