Trevélez, the Highest Village of Spain - Its Rich History, What to See and Where to Eat

Trevélez is the highest village in Spain, accessed via a steep ascent from Busquístar along the A-4132 road. It is located at an altitude of 1476 meters, even reaching more than 1600 meters at its highest point.

A picturesque ceramic sign at the village's entrance serves as a reminder of its altitude, proudly proclaiming to be the highest village in Spain.

The village sprawls along the southwestern slope of the Mulhacén peak, nestled at the convergence of the Chico and Trevélez rivers at the end of a valley.

The population of Trevélez totals approximately 850 people.

Trevélez river is recognized as one of the top trout rivers in southern Spain, with its waters sourced from the melting snow on the highest peaks of Sierra Nevada.

The municipal area extends to the very foothills of the Mulhacén itself, making it home to the highest agricultural land in Europe in its vicinity.

A Vilalge of Legends

Trevélez is a village of Roman origin, as evidenced by the ruins dating back to the 3rd century found here.

It is believed that the name originates from the Latin word velex, which means valley.

The Christian troops never reached Trevélez during the Conquest of the Kingdom of Granada.

Subsequently, following the Alpujarras Rebellion, the Moriscos sought refuge in the nearby mountains, eventually turning to banditry.

There are numerous legends and myths from this era, greatly influenced by the contributions of travelers, particularly romanticists who visited Trevélez in the 19th century, with a notable emphasis on English visitors.

What to See and Do in Trevélez?

The Streets and Fountains

The village presents breathtaking scenery, characterized by charming Alpujarras houses and opportunities to discover local crafts. Nature lovers will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Stroll through its steep streets and admire its tinaos (pathways), like the Tinaillo on Cuesta Street, while soaking in the breathtaking views that its residents enjoy daily.

Something very interesting to see in Trevélez is how many of its fountains supply water to the old laundries.

The La Placetilla Fountain supplies water to the laundry of the same name, and the Fuente de Arriba (upstairs) to the Upstairs Laundry.

The Neighborhoods of Trevélez

Like many other villages in the Alpujarra, built on a slope, Trevélez is divided into three neighborhoods: one at the top, one in the middle, and one at the bottom.

The most deteriorated by urban development is the lower neighborhood; however, the upper neighborhood has relatively well-preserved traditional architecture of the Alpujarra.

The "eras" (threshing floors or place for threshing grain) of the middle and upper neighborhoods are beautiful viewpoints that offer a panoramic view of the village and its natural surroundings, including Era de la Cruz.

The parish church of San Benito dates back to the 16th century, is situated in the lower part of the village.

At the Ermita de San Antonio chapel, you will see one of the two existing carvings of the Virgen de las Nieves, from the school of Pedro de Mena.

Virgen de las Nieves (Virgin of the Snows) on the peaks of Sierra Nevada is built in honor of its patron saint with the same Mulhacén (peak) stone.

Natural Sites

Located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada National Park, Trevélez offers us natural landscapes of exceptional beauty.

It is surrounded by some of the highest peaks of the mountain massif: Mulhacén, Alcazaba and Atalaya, among others. The Trevélez River originates in its summits.

If you're wondering what to do in Trevélez, you can choose from hiking, climbing, fishing, and many other outdoor activities in nature.

It is the perfect location to use as a base for exploring the Sierra Nevada. Numerous hiking trails originate from here.

The ascent to the Siete Lagunas (seven lakes) is one of the most popular hikes. It will lead you to a stunning valley of glacial origin where you can admire the alpine pastures and some of the endemic flora of Sierra Nevada, such as the snow star. This 6-7 hours hike is not suitable for beginners.

These plants are unique in the world, and some are in danger of extinction. Please follow the trails at all times and respect the environment.

Trevélez Ham and the Drying Sheds

Above all, Trevélez is renowned for its naturally cured hams, benefiting from the healthy air of Sierra Nevada.

In the 19th century, Trevélez ham gained recognition when Queen Isabel II granted it the distinction of being a supplier to the Royal House.

It currently holds the Denomination of Origin and has attained worldwide recognition.

If you want to learn about the artisanal curing process perfected in Trevélez over centuries, visit one of the many drying rooms open to the public.

A guided visit to a ham drying room is one of the most unique experiences you can have in Trevélez, provided you're not a vegetarian, of course.

There are several options available, including tasting sessions with a tapa or a plate of ham paired with wine.

There are also drying rooms, such as Jamones Vallejo, where they can teach you how to carve the ham.

Trevélez Festivals

The patron saint festivities of Trevélez take place in San Antonio on June 13st and 14st, featuring the traditional "Moors and Christians" event. This tradition dates back to 1912.

On August 4th, the Pilgrimage to Mulhacén begins. Departing from Trevélez during the night, participants walk to reach the summit of Mulhacén by dawn.

You can join them, but it's important to stay with one of many groups as it's easy to get lost in the mountains, and the hike can be quite challenging.

Places where you can eat well in Trevélez

Trevélez is a small village, yet it boasts ten active restaurants. Here, we've chosen only the top-rated restaurants renowned for their food quality and inviting atmosphere, all offering picturesque mountain views.

Opening hours frequently change, so it's recommended to call the restaurant before your visit to verify its status and to confirm both the hours of operation and any restrictions in place.

Meson La Fragua Restaurant in Trevélez

Located in the upper part of Trevelez, next to the church and the village hall, is one of the best restaurants in the area.

It's a peaceful and cozy spot with two floors. There are lovely terraces with windows and stunning views from the restaurant's top floor.

The restaurant offers quality homemade food, including typical sausages, meats, salads, and desserts. The menu is extensive and reasonably priced.

The portions are generous, so it's advisable to order only one per person.

Why Choose This Restaurant?

Opening Hours and Contact Information

: open every day from 12:30 to 16:00 and from 20:00 to 22:30.

: Address: Restaurante Meson La Fragua, Calle San Antonio, 4, 18417 Trevélez. Telephone: 958 858 573.

Piedra Ventana Restaurant in Trevélez

A family restaurant with a simple atmosphere, situated next to the Trevélez River, boasting windows offering beautiful views of the river.

The restaurant offers an outstanding selection of dishes in the area, with a diverse menu. The food is both delicious and innovative.

The restaurant is famous for its top-quality trout, along with specialties like peppers stuffed with cod, choto with spicy sauce, a traditional Alpujareño dish, and mouthwatering grilled lamb.

It's recommended to make a reservation to secure a table since the dining room isn't spacious and can become crowded.

The waitstaff provides friendly and attentive service.

Why Choose This Restaurant?

Opening Hours and Contact Information

: they're open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

: Address: Piedra Ventana Restaurant, Carretera Ugijar, 36, 18417 Trevélez. Telephone: 958 85 85 99.

How to Get to Trevélez from Granada by Bus or Car

Two ways to get to Trevélez by Car

1. From Granada on the A-44, take exit 175 towards A-346, towards Vélez de Benaudalla.

Continue on A-346 and then A-348 and A-4130 until Trevélez. Approximate time 1 hour 45 minutes.

2. From Granada on the A-44, take exit 164, the A-348 highway towards Lanjaron and Pitres, continue along the A-4132 until Trevelez. Approximate time 1 hour 55 minutes.

The second route is longer, but along the way, you can visit other emblematic villages of the Alpujarra: Pampaneira and, detouring a little, Bubión and Capileira (10 minutes).

How to Get to Trevélez by Bus

Three buses run between Granada and Trevélez, stopping at Pampaneira, Capileira and Bubion.

Please note that the last bus departs from Granada around 4:00 p.m. and from Trevélez around 5:00 p.m. You can check the schedules on alsa.es.

The buses make stops in other villages, with the final destination being Trevélez. They have the following stops in Granada, Lecrín Valley and in the villages of the Alpujarra:

Other Villages of the Alpujarra

Here you can find information about other villages and towns in the Alpujarra: Soportújar, Bubion, Capileira, Lanjarón, La Taha and Pitres, Pampaneira.

---

Was this information helpful? Have you visited these sights? We'd love to

hear your thoughts.

© Copyright • LoveGranada.com • Any use of the content, including copying of it in whole or in part is prohibited.

Follow us on our social networks

If you find this information useful, please share it