Sierra Nevada and La Alpujarra

La Alpujarra is the name given to the foothills of the south-facing Sierra Nevada mountains, deep in the south of Spain. A unique ecology, the farm lands watered by the melting snow of the mountains create an oasis of greenery.

There can be no doubt that La Alpujarra is an area of exceptional natural beauty and therefore one of the most inspiring and uplifting places in the world. It has been designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO with many unique and rare species; it's skies are officially rated as the cleanest in Europe.

The Sierra is snow covered for much of the year despite being within striking distance of the Mediterranean. This creates the unusual phenomenon of having four separate climates in the 50km range between the mountains and the sea, occurring in only two other places in the world. We have:

• The alpine climate with it's rare species of birds, flowers and insects.

• The temperate climate in the mountain villages where nut trees (walnut, chestnut, almond) and cherries, apples and raspberries thrive.

• The Mediterranean climate in Orgiva and the surrounding campo (countryside). Here grow avocadoes and many olive and orange groves, with lemon trees a feature in most gardens and with bougainvillea covering walls and terraces.

• Subtropical climate of the coastal region, the fertile land growing exotic fruits (papaya, mango, cherimoya, sugarcane) and all vegetables. Picking peas in January is the norm!

Orgiva where this holiday is based, is the regional administrative centre of La Alpujarra with banks, shops, bars, restaurants and cafes. Above Orgiva there is a series of stunning white ‘Berber style' villages nestling in the hills – some having special protection status. Up at this level experience the calm and quiet of the majestic mountains. Photograph the wonderful scenic views. At the end of the day, sit under the stars, so close and clear, in the soft jasmine scented darkness and be touched by the duende (spirit) of Spain.

Recommended reading: ‘Driving Over Lemons: An Optimist in Andalucia' by Chris Stewart ‘South from Granada' by Gerald Brennan.

• Sierra Nevada - La Alpujarra
• The Alhambra
• Granada
• Federico García Lorca
• The Mediterranean
• Flamenco
• Therapies
• Getting Here
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