What to Do in Sierra Nevada in Summer - Activities, Hiking and Guided Tours

In summer, the peaks of the Sierra Nevada change color, shedding their white mantle to reveal shades of green, brown, and blue.


It is time, then, to discover the valuable flora and fauna, observe its lagoons, walk along its trails, and enjoy the peace and tranquility that envelop the mountain at the end of the ski season.

Sierra Nevada is a place of great ecological value due to its rich biological diversity. It is a Biosphere Reserve, National Park and Natural Park.

When the thaw begins it is highly recommended to visit the Hoya de Pedraza Botanical Garden, where you will discover many surprising aspects of the flora and vegetation that thrive in these mountains.

You can also enjoy the magnificent views it offers.

In these mountains, the highest in the Iberian Peninsula, there are more than 2,000 cataloged plant species, of which 66 are endemic, meaning they can only be seen here.

In summer, when the snow melts, they awaken and fill the landscape with colors: the violet and Sierra Nevada poppy, the snow star, and many more.

Its fauna is also rich, with 80 endemic species. In the park, there are reptiles, birds, and amphibians. Although the most characteristic animal of the Sierra Nevada is the mountain goat.

Astrotourism - Close to the Stars

One of the most popular activities in Sierra Nevada, drawing increasing numbers of people each year, is stargazing.

The absence of light pollution and the altitude of its peaks make this park the ideal place to get closer to the stars.

During the summer in Sierra Nevada you will have many opportunities to enjoy the wonderful spectacle that the night sky offers.

Many people come in August, when the Perseids or Tears of San Lorenzo take place, to enjoy the spectacular meteor shower at dawn.

There are also several activities organized and guided by professionals that we detail below:

Guided Visits to the Sierra Nevada Observatory

At almost 3,000 meters above sea level is the Sierra Nevada Observatory (OSN), managed by the Institute of Astrophysics of Andalusia (IAA-CSIC) and the IRAM 30m Observatory. It is one of the largest and most sensitive observatories in the world, with a diameter of 30 meters.

During the months of July and August, when the snow has melted and the observatory is easily accessible, guided tours of the OSN are organized.

Although these visits are only conducted during the day to showcase the telescopes and instruments they work with, there is the possibility of participating in a two-day visit, which includes a night observation the Albergue Universitario in Sierra Nevada, where you will stay.

This activity is conducted by the company Azimuth, comprised of astrophysicists specialized in the dissemination and teaching of astronomy.

It is a luxury to have such guides to learn how to read the map of the sky.

Price: 40 euros for a one-day visit; 70 euros for two days, including accommodation and meals. Activity not suitable for children under 10 years of age.

More information at: www.osn.iaa.csic.es.

Starfall in Borreguiles

This summer the ski resort offers us the Al Andalus cable car to access to the Borreguiles area at 2,700 meters above sea level and enjoy the popular rain of stars known as the Perseids on July 16.

This activity is directed by professionals from the Andalusian Institute of Astrophysics (IAA-CSIC) who will accompany you and give you a talk.

Price: 60 euros for adults and 40 euros for juniors. Includes a welcome drink on arrival, hot chocolate in Borreguiles and a picnic bag.

They also offer children's entertainment for children under 6 years old.

More information at: www.sierranevada.es/es/verano/astronomia/

Hiking in Sierra Nevada

In summer Sierra Nevada becomes a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Horseback riding tours and mountain biking tours are also popular activities in the area.
If you enjoy this type of vacation and wish to spend several days exploring this unique place, we recommend embarking on the Sulayr trail, which traverses the entire Sierra Nevada.

This route is divided into 19 sections to be completed over several days. Additionally, there are other smaller trails that can be completed in a single day.

It is advisable to visit the El Dornajo Visitor Center, where they can provide information about the routes to follow and provide you with maps.

They also organize interesting summer activities, such as guided tours and multi-day journeys. Address: Ctra. De Sierra Nevada Km. 23. Telephone 958 340 625.

On the other hand, the Sierra Nevada Station itself organizes guided tours every Tuesday and Thursday, which include access to the lifts and a guide.

More information at: www.sierranevada.es/es/verano/naturaleza/.

Follow the Sun From the Vane

Watch the sunrise from one of the highest peaks in Spain: Veleta, at 3,398 m. of altitude.

In this activity organized by Sierra Nevada , you'll have the opportunity to witness the sunrise amidst breathtaking views, possibly even catching a glimpse of the Mediterranean Sea.

It begins at 6:00 am and lasts approximately two hours. The price is 20 euros, which includes transfer to Veleta and a picnic bag.

If you prefer sunsets, Sierra Nevada offers the same type of activity at the end of the day, allowing you to experience a magical sunset at over 3000 meters above sea level.

It also costs 20 euros and includes the transfer to Veleta as well as the picnic bag.

More information at: www.sierranevada.es/es/verano/astronomia/

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