The white villages of the Alpujarra: a day in the mountains
On the southern slopes of Sierra Nevada, white villages cling to steep valleys. The Poqueira gorge is the classic introduction.
✓ Facts checked on 8 November 2026
What is the Alpujarra?
The Alpujarra is the mountain region on the southern side of Sierra Nevada, shared between the provinces of Granada and Almería. Its terraced slopes, irrigation channels and white villages lie partly within and around the Sierra Nevada National Park.
From Vélez de Benaudalla, the Alpujarra is the mountain counterpart to the coast: you can be by the sea one day and in the villages the next.
The Barranco de Poqueira
Pampaneira
The lowest of the three villages and usually the first stop. Its streets are a good introduction to the local architecture.
Bubión
Between Pampaneira and Capileira, with a museum dedicated to the traditional Alpujarra house.
Capileira
The highest of the three, at the head of the gorge, also with a museum of traditional housing.
The three villages are recognised as historic ensembles (Bien de Interés Cultural) and described by the Sierra Nevada National Park as paradigms of traditional Alpujarra architecture.
Reading the architecture
Look for the flat roofs covered in launa, a grey clay, the round chimneys topped with a stone, and the tinaos — covered passages where houses span the street. The houses are stacked down the slope, following the terrain.
Trevélez and its ham
Further east, Trevélez is one of the highest villages in Spain and is known above all for its cured mountain ham, protected by the “Calidad de Trevélez” designation. Chronicles record that Queen Isabella II and Napoleon III praised it.
Lanjarón and Órgiva
On the way up from the coast, Lanjarón is a spa town known for its mineral water, and Órgiva is the main market town of the western Alpujarra — both convenient stops for a coffee.
Practical tips
Mountain roads are narrow and winding: allow more time than the distance suggests and avoid driving tired at the end of the day. Parking in the villages is limited, so arriving early helps.
Walking trails link the villages of the Poqueira gorge; wear proper shoes and carry water. In winter, snow can reach the upper villages.
Frequently asked questions
Which Alpujarra villages should I visit first?
Pampaneira, Bubión and Capileira in the Barranco de Poqueira: they are close together and are protected historic ensembles.
Do I need a car for the Alpujarra?
It is strongly recommended. Public transport exists but is limited, and the villages are spread along winding mountain roads.
What is Trevélez known for?
For its cured mountain ham, protected by the “Calidad de Trevélez” designation, and for being one of the highest villages in Spain.
Can I visit the Alpujarra and the beach in the same holiday?
Yes. Vélez de Benaudalla sits between the Costa Tropical and the mountains, so you can alternate days by the sea and in the villages.
Sources · Facts checked on 8 November 2026