Hiking in Andalusia

People are attracted to Andalusia because of its welcoming, friendly population, its varied landscapes and its warm climate. This southern Spanish region is a coloured by many cultures, Romans, Arabs, Jews and Gypsies have all considered it their homeland at one time or another. Apart from its fabulous beaches, ports and monuments, Andalusia is an excellent location for outdoor activities such as hiking and walking. Whether you enjoy relaxed day hikes in parks and forests or extended backpacking trips up steep mountains, Andalusia has it all. This month we highlight two not-to-be-missed places which guarantee a memorable trip to the south of Spain.

SEVILLE, the Andalusian capital, is one of the most popular places in the country. It has many attractions including the Arabian bell tower, Giralda, the magnificent cathedral, and Torre del Oro. To really discover this beautiful area, take a trip to the 'sierra Norte de Sevilla'. You'll find mountainous forests with large pastures, as well as numerous rivers and partly wooded slopes. It has starting points at Cazalla de la Sierra, Alanis, Guadalcanal, Navas de la Concepción, and El Pintado. Its levels are easy to medium and hikes can take from 2-6 hours.

GRANADA is the capital of the province with the same name, situated in the eastern part of the region of Andalusia. Geographical and scenic diversity characterises the land. As the last Moorish capital on the Iberian Peninsula, it also holds great symbolic value. One of the most outstanding attractions is definitely the great Arabian palace 'Alhambra', an enchanting structure of Hispano-Moorish art. Located at the foot of the snowy Sierra Nevada mountain range, Granada offers exhilarating hiking trips varying from easy to difficult. The Sierra Nevada is an alpine region, containing lagoons and the two highest mountains on the Iberian Peninsula. It has starting points at Güejar, Pradollano, Skistation (Veleta), and Jeres de Marquesado and hikes can take from 2-10 hours.