Dreaming of a white christmas? Here is Euro Weekly’s complete guide to Sierra Nevada

If you’re dreaming of a snowy Christmas ambiance this year, Sierra Nevada offers the perfect escape for families seeking that magical winter feeling. Even if the snow isn’t fully settled by December, the resort village of Pradollano comes alive with festive decorations, lights, and a cheerful atmosphere. Families flock here not only for skiing or snowboarding, but to enjoy sleigh rides, ice skating, snow play, and the charm of a true winter wonderland.

Sierra Nevada is about 35 km from Granada, and the drive usually takes around 45–50 minutes. The road is scenic but very winding, so travellers prone to travel sickness should consider taking medication about an hour before departure. All cars should carry snow chains, as there are occasions when sudden snow or icy conditions make certain stretches impassable. Visitors are also advised to check weather conditions before travelling, as heavy snowfall has occasionally left families snowed in, requiring overnight stays in local hotels.

Pradollano: The Resort Village at the Base

Restaurants, rentals and lively après‑ski

Pradollano sits at around 2,100 metres above sea level and acts as the hub for most visitors. It offers a wide selection of restaurants and cafés serving Andalusian and international dishes, alongside shops, supermarkets, and equipment rental outlets for skiing and snowboarding. The ice rink and lively village atmosphere add to the appeal for families and non-skiers.

Tip: The drive from Granada can be winding and slow in winter conditions. All cars should have snow chains, and travellers prone to travel sickness should take medication about an hour before departure. Check local weather reports carefully, particularly in December, as heavy snow has occasionally trapped visitors in Pradollano, making overnight stays necessary.

Hotels in Pradollano are convenient for ski‑in/ski‑out access but tend to be more expensive, especially during peak winter months. Staying in Granada or nearby villages such as Cenes de la Vega, Monachil or Güéjar Sierra can offer better value while keeping the slopes within easy reach.

Slopes, Snowparks and Lessons

Terrain for all levels and expert instruction

Sierra Nevada boasts more than 110 kilometres of skiable terrain across a variety of pistes, with a balanced mix of greens, blues, reds and blacks suitable for beginners through to experts. The resort is famous for its long runs, generous snowmaking system, and the Sulayr Superpark, one of Europe’s leading freestyle areas complete with half-pipes, rails and boarder-cross features.

Ski and snowboard schools are available throughout the resort, with professional instructors offering group or private lessons for adults and children alike, a great way for beginners to gain confidence on the snow. Dedicated family-friendly areas like the Kidspark and snow gardens allow children to learn in a fun, safe environment.

Family-Friendly Activities Beyond the Slopes

Fun for kids and non-skiers alike

For families or visitors not skiing, Sierra Nevada provides plenty of alternative snow fun. There is day care and supervised play for very young children in Pradollano, allowing parents to ski while the little ones are active and entertained. Recreational areas near the village offer tubing, tobogganing, trampolines, and snow play activities that don’t require a ski pass.

Families can also explore the Alta Montaña area, just a short drive past Pradollano, which features restaurants, rental areas for sleds, hiking trails, and open snowfields perfect for snowball fights and building snowmen. Sometimes the higher mountain roads are closed due to weather or parking restrictions, but visitors can take a small shuttle bus collecting passengers along the roadside for €1.25 per person, making the area accessible even when driving isn’t possible.

Snow gear tips for families:

• Always bring spare socks and a change of warm clothes, especially for children, as snow play can get wet quickly even when they are wearing waterproofs.
• Avoid Wellington boots, as snow can find its way in; snow boots are preferable.
• Wear waterproof jackets, gloves, hats, and thermal wear to ensure warmth and comfort throughout the day.

These precautions make snow play, sledding, and hiking in the Alta Montaña much more enjoyable, keeping kids warm and dry so the whole family can make the most of their winter adventure.

Wildlife to Watch For

Nature and fauna in winter

Sierra Nevada isn’t just about snow and slopes, the region is also a rich natural habitat where visitors may spot a variety of wildlife, even in winter. One of the most iconic mammals in the high mountains is the Spanish ibex (Cabra montés), a sure-footed mountain goat often seen grazing on rocky slopes. Horses may also be spotted grazing freely, adding to the festive mountain atmosphere.

Birdlife is particularly striking. Majestic birds of prey such as golden eagles, Bonelli’s eagles, peregrine falcons and kestrels are frequently seen soaring above the peaks or riding thermal currents. Around rocky slopes and cliffs, alpine accentors, red-billed choughs, and other mountain birds adapted to high altitudes are also active during the colder months.

Bringing Your Dog

Visiting the mountains with your pet

Dogs are welcome at Sierra Nevada, but pets cannot ride on buses unless they are in a suitable carrier. This applies whether you are taking a bus to Pradollano or to the Alta Montaña area. If you plan to bring your dog to Alta Montaña and the road is closed due to weather or parking restrictions, you may need to walk the remaining 2 km along the road if you do not have a carrier.

A Unique Mediterranean Winter Experience

Why Sierra Nevada stands out

Unlike many other European ski resorts, Sierra Nevada benefits from a sunny, southern location, often recognised as one of the sunniest ski areas in Europe. On clear days, the views from the higher slopes extend to the Mediterranean coast, the Strait of Gibraltar, and even North Africa. This remarkable combination of alpine snow, scenic vistas, festive family activities, beginner lessons, and thrilling terrain makes Sierra Nevada a must-visit winter destination in Spain.