The Alpujarra region of Spain's
Andalucia could be considered as an out-door activities paradise, situated as it
is, in a range of hills between the lofty peaks of the Sierra Nevada and the
clear waters of the Mediterranean.
Walking and cycling to over 1500
metres are available from the door of our base at the farm. There are
innumerable trails for mountain biking, of different length and difficulty, in
the local Contraviesa hills. These tracks wind through almond and olive groves
with long climbs and fast descents. The views to the high, snow-clad peaks
of the Sierra Nevada which are only about an hour away by car at its closest point at
Puerto de la Ragua. At Puerto de la Ragua, 2000 metres, there is an equipped
centre for Nordic skiing, (hire facilities available), and many laid out
trails.
The extensive network of forest tracks there is
available to mountain bikers, and walkers.
It is even possible, in summer, to
cycle from a point above Capileira at 2200m to the summit of Veleta at 3400
metres. This last excursion takes a whole day and requires four hours in the car
with approximately six hours of cycling out and back from the summit. It
is though, one of the highest off-road rides in western Europe and not to be
missed if you have the legs and the lungs!
Road cycling routes from the top of
the farm track are many and varied, round trips on near empty roads, range from
approximately two hours upwards. The long steep climbs of up to 20 kilometres
would make ideal winter training routes for aspiring racers and other keen
cyclists. All you need is your bike, a map and our extensive local
knowledge.
Opportunities for walking, bird
watching, photography and painting are un-limited in this ruggedly beautiful
countryside with its dazzling clear blue skies, but, if all you want to do is
relax in calm, peaceful surroundings and read a book, this too, could make it the
place for you.
