The Mulhacen (3.482 m.) is the highest peak in the Iberian Peninsula and, together with La Veleta (3.398 m.), dominates Sierra Nevada and its National Park.
On its descent from Granada to the Mediterranean coast the A44 dual carriageway crosses the Lecrin Valley, leaving Las Alpujarras to the East. About 40 kms from Granada and about 15 mins. from the A44, we come to the municipality of El Valle, which includes Restabal , Melegís and Saleres, with the Rio Santo running through to Lake Beznar.
This situation on the south side of Sierra Nevada and open to the sea along the gorge of the River Guadalfeo, together with the altitude, explains the fact that it is possible to cultivate in the same area, avocados, chirimoyas, papaya, oranges, lemons, walnuts, almonds and olives etc. A micro climate that softens the winters and summers of Granada.
25 minutes south of the valley is the Mediterranean Sea. This downhill journey from the ski slopes of Sierra Nevada to the beaches of Motríl and Salobreña will have taken only about 70 minutes.
There are many different points of interest. But the Lecrín Valley is an ideal base for visiting the Alpujarras (of Granada and of Almeria) and the Costa Tropical.
There is a large choice of cultural activities on offer in Granada and its province, including music, dance, theatre, exhibitions, museums, botanical gardens and, of course, La Alhambra and its gardens, not to be missed.
Outdoor activities include walks of varying lengths or more ambitious guided
treks in La Sierra, horse riding, hot air ballooning, water sports etc. Sierra Nevada National Park offers a very varied flora and fauna to its visitor. The international walking route, GR7-E4 from Athens to Tarifa passes through Restábal.
Local markets, car boot sales, fairs and fiestas are also plentiful. Don't forget to try the local food and, of course, the traditional tapas.
Below are some links for more information on these activities.
www.nevasport.com/sierranevada/esqui
Ski information
www.juntadeandalucia.es/medioambiente
Sierra Nevada National Park etc
www.alhambra.org
www.adurcal.com/mancomunidad
Official website of Lecrin Valley, info on villages etc
www.granadatur.com
www.sierranevadanatural.com
Guided excursions
www.turgranada.es/turismo-sol-playa
Beach info
labalconadarevista.blogspot.com
Restabal SPAIN Spectacular views of Sierra Nevada
Lecrin Valley, Granada
