Inside Europe’s southernmost ski resort – with 320 days of sunshine each year and views of the Med
DESPITE boasting 320 days of sunshine per year, Sierra Nevada is actually Europe’s southernmost ski resort.
Located in Andalusia, Sierra Nevada is a little warmer than most ski resorts in Europe – although it gets a strong coating of snowfall from December right through to April.
Covering 1,200m, Sierra Nevada is the largest snow range in Spain, with slopes funneling down to Pradollano base at the bottom of Mulhacén mountain.
Some of the slopes sit above 2,700m with even the newest skiers and snowboarders being treated to eye popping views across the valley.
A spokesperson from Crystal Ski Holidays told Sun Online Travel: “Sierra Nevada offers a wide variety of slopes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, from beginners, intermediate and experts, there are plenty of opportunities for carving, freestyle, and off-piste adventures, so there really is something for everyone.
“The resort also features a well-kept snow park, which makes it a favourite destination for snowboarders and night skiing can be experienced on the illuminated slopes.
“You can make your way down a mountain while gazing out to the Mediterranean Sea and Costa del Sol (you might even spot Africa on the clearest days)”.
Sierra Nevada is a popular ski resort for families, with plenty of activities for children.
For example, kids can race down slopes on snow tubes and toboggan runs and families can explore the Spanish ski resort on snowmobiles.
Other attractions for kids include the Crèche and Dreamland Snow Garden – a friendly childcare spot for kids ages between three and 12.
There’s also the Sea and Woodland Slopes, which are two nature-themed slopes where younger skiers can gain confidence while spotting animal figures like deer and octopus.
Meanwhile, the Sulayr Snowpark is a family-friendly section where youngsters can tackle smaller obstacles.
For children aged four and over, there’s also the Mirlo Blanco fun park – an alpine coaster with a 550m vertical drop.
Other nearby attractions include the Sierra Nevada Observatory, a scientific research base that’s open to the public.
Visitors to the observatory can use two telescopes and learn about the projects that are happening at the centre.
Holidaymakers can reach the observatory on a cable car from Pradollano to the Borreguiles area before boarding a chair lift and walking 2km to the research base.
A spokesperson from Crystal Ski Holidays described Sierra Nevada as a “a lively après-ski atmosphere, which is centred around the terrace and tapas culture – think wine bars, cocktails and relaxed beers with small plates of food
“There are lots of small, hole-in-the-wall type bars with lively terraces that tend to stay open into the early hours.”
Local delicacies include bocadillos – a typical Andalucian sandwich which can be enjoyed for fuelling after days on the slopes.
Direct flights operate from London Luton Airport to Malaga Costa del Sol where holidaymakers can board transfers to Sierra Nevada.
Ski holidays to Sierra Nevada are more affordable compared to other destinations.
Crystal Ski Holidays currently has packages from £874 per person, with breaks at the three-star hotel Mont Blanc including flights and transfers.
Five factors to consider when booking a ski holiday
LAST year, our ski expert shared her expert insights to help novice skiers find the best place to carve their first tracks.
Laura Hazell, Sales and Marketing Director at Ski Beat – the largest UK tour operator offering package ski chalet holidays to the French Alps – gives us her recommendations, from location to non-ski-based activities.
- Location – For first-time skiers, the proximity of the ski school to your accommodation is crucial.
- Friendly Terrain – When it comes to choosing the right resort, Hazell suggests looking for places with a good selection of green and blue runs.
- Beyond the Slopes – For those moments when you’re not carving your way down the mountainside, it’s important to consider what the resort offers in terms of non-ski activities.
- Pressure-free learning – The ideal destination for first-time skiers is one where there’s no pressure to do anything other than learn to ski at your own pace.
- Guaranteed Snow – Any ski holiday hinges on one key ingredient: snow. High-altitude resorts with robust infrastructure are your best bet for guaranteed skiable conditions.
Meanwhile, a lesser-known European city with cheap booze has been named a trending travel destination for 2025 – and it’s great for skiers and snowboarders.
And this French ski resort has everything from snowy slopes to stunning spas.