Now that the Christmas and New Year celebrations are over for another year (phew), most of southern Spain´s ski enthusiasts will be taking a trip up to the Sierra Nevada to make the most of the snowy slopes before Springtime.

Sierra Nevada, meaning ´snowy mountain range´, is situated just north of Granada, and only a couple of hours drive from the majority of beach resorts on the Costa del Sol. Situated so far south, skiers and sightseers alike are almost guaranteed sunshine at this beautiful resort – especially during early spring.

Spain is the second most mountainous country in Europe after Switzerland, and Sierra Nevada caters for thousands of visitors who flock here every season to enjoy one of the world´s most exclusive winter sports.   Situated close enough to Granada for visitors to take advantage of this magical Moorish city, this particular area of southern Spain offers much more than just skiing.

There are several ski schools in the village of Sierra Nevada and boot and equipment hire, including snowboards is readily available from the shops at the entrance. Children are also well catered for here, and there are two crèches in the main square of the village plus a kids ski club including lessons for the younger enthusiasts. Having hosted the Alpine World Ski Championships in 1996, which really put this resort on the map, the Sierra Nevada boasts some of the best facilities in Europe.

A specifically designed snowboard park, with a full range of jumps, is also situated on the mountainside, and proves very popular amongst the younger ski enthusiasts.

For the most adventurous and professional skiers, there are 5 black runs available and also a cross country circuit of 4 kilometres.  Night skiing is also available on Saturdays from 1900 to 21.30 hrs subject to weather and snow conditions.

Last time we took the family skiing, we stayed at the impressive Melia Sol y Nieve Hotel in the centre of the resort.  Recently renovated, this stylish hotel boasts a fabulous location and offers great food and service, plus clean and stylish rooms.  The food was impressive and the prices reasonable.  There are cheaper places to stay than the Melia Sol y Nieve, but you are unlikely to find a better location.  The hotel is situated just 100m from the chair lifts and 33 km from Granada.   Each room comes with state of the art facilities including flat screen TV´s and wifi internet access.  Also comprising a wonderful spa complex which is just the job after a hard day on the slopes.  Regular updates on skiing conditions can be obtained in-house, and special requirements can also be catered for.

We have also stayed at the City Mar Santa Cruz Hotel in the past, which is ten minute´s drive from the resort and 20 minutes from the city of Granada.  As we were combining a skiing holiday with sightseeing in Granada, this was the perfect place to stay.  Quite basic but comfortable and stylish.  Excellent value for money and highly recommended. Facilities include a cafe, restaurant, disco, tennis courts and a swimming pool.  If you are planning a budget trip, you won´t find better than the City Mar.  You will also be spoilt for choice if you want to party the night away with some serious après ski festivities.  The bars and restaurants in and around the resort are fabulous, and the prices are reasonable.  Many of the hotels host great discos and music bars but if you want to party in the resort, try The Mango Saloon, El Hipódromo or La Chimenea.  Restaurants vary greatly in price and quality but highly recommended for food and views are the Mesón Alcazaba , specialising in Spanish meat dishes and Floren, which specialises in Italian cuisine and home-made pasta dishes.

There are plenty of places to stay in and around the resort.  Whether you are looking for 5 star luxury or a simple hostal, you will find it all at the Sierra Nevada. With six ski areas within the resort, and with slopes to suit every ability from novice to professional, this fabulous mountain range provides fun for all the family in a stunning location.  Remember you are only two hours from Marbella and Puerto Banus and all the bright lights of the coast, so if you are planning to fly to Granada or Malaga, you may want to combine your skiing trip with a stay on the Costa del Sol.

Contact details:  Sierra Nevada Office, Granada. Phone: 958 100 749. Fax: 958 763 995.
E-mail: info@sierranevada.co.uk
Opening hours: Office opens Monday to Friday, 1000-1400hrs and 1600-1900hrs.
Getting there:  From Malaga, heading out of the city take road signposted Granada.  Keep following signs for Granada and you will see signs close to the city for Sierra Nevada.  Follow these which will take you into the village centre.