Walking and Trekking in the Sierra Nevada - Richard Hartley

Discover the wild beauty of southern Spain’s highest mountains with this guidebook to walking and trekking in the Sierra Nevada, where sunlit ridges, glacial corries and vast high plateaux rise above whitewashed villages and fertile valleys. From tranquil alpine lakes and flower-filled meadows to barren rocky summits and expansive views across AndalucÃa, the range offers unforgettable mountain experiences, including classic ascents of Mulhacén and the celebrated Tres Picos challenge, linking Veleta, Mulhacén and Alcazaba. This comprehensive guidebook presents over 30 graded day walks alongside multi-day treks and five high mountain scrambles, covering routes of 5–38km (3–24 miles) lasting from a few hours to a few days. While some outings provide accessible introductions to the range, all routes demand good fitness, navigational awareness and confidence in remote rugged mountain terrain, with opportunities for hut-based trekking, wild camping and extended traverses across the Sierra Nevada’s 3000m peaks. Over 30 graded walks ranging from half-day rambles to demanding mountain outings, complemented by multi-day treks and five classic Sierra Nevada scrambles for experienced hillwalkers, such as the Tres Picos traverse, a 3-7 day journey across the 3000m peaks and an overview of the long-distance 302km (188 mile) Sulayr GR240. Clear route descriptions supported by 1:50,000 mapping for walks and scrambles, with additional overview mapping (1:100,000 and 1:250,000) for longer treks and high-level traverses. Photo topos illustrating the scrambling lines on Grade 2 to 3S Sierra Nevada routes, helping confident mountaineers tackle exposed ridges and rocky summit approaches. Practical guidance on seasonal conditions, navigation, equipment and winter mountaineering considerations for exploring the remote high terrain of the Sierra Nevada, alongside information on shelters, wild camping opportunities and water sources across the range. GPX files available for download to support navigation across high plateaux, remote valleys and summit approaches. Includes classic ascents of Mulhacén, mainland Spain’s highest summit, alongside opportunities to explore lesser-known ridges, corries and panoramic viewpoints across the Sierra Nevada. Background information on the region’s landscapes, wildlife and mountain culture, plus practical advice on access, bases and transport to help plan a rewarding Sierra Nevada walking trip. Plan your Sierra Nevada mountain adventure with confidence using this inspiring and practical guidebook, and experience mainland Spain’s highest peaks, remote trails and unforgettable high-mountain scenery on foot.