Pradollano serves as the high-altitude hub for Europe’s southernmost ski resort, offering a unique landscape where you can slide down sun-drenched pistes before heading to the coast for an evening by the sea. This purpose-built village provides everything from world-class winter sports to high-mountain hiking under the clear Andalusian sky.
A Guide to Pradollano: Skiing and Summer in the Sierra Nevada
Standing at 2,100 metres above sea level, Pradollano is the heart of the Sierra Nevada ski station in the province of Granada. It is a place defined by its elevation and its proximity to the Mediterranean, located just 31 kilometres from the city of Granada. As the base for the resort, it is where the majority of accommodation, restaurants, and services are concentrated, serving as the gateway to the highest peaks of the Iberian Peninsula.
While many visitors arrive for the winter season, which typically runs from late November to early May, Pradollano has evolved into a year-round destination. In the winter, it is a hive of activity for skiers and snowboarders who come to explore the 110 kilometres of marked runs. In the summer, the snow disappears to reveal a rugged, moon-like landscape that becomes a playground for mountain bikers and hikers aiming for the summit of Veleta. The air is thin, the sun is strong, and the views across the Alpujarras to the Rif mountains of Morocco are often exceptional.
What to See and Do
The primary draw of Pradollano is its access to the diverse terrain of the Sierra Nevada mountains. The resort is divided into several sectors, each offering a different experience depending on your skill level and the time of year.
Skiing and Snowboarding in the Sun
With over 120 pistes, the resort caters to everyone from complete beginners to seasoned experts. Most skiers start their day by taking the Al-Ándalus or Borreguiles gondolas from Pradollano up to the Borreguiles plateau at 2,700 metres. This area is the main teaching hub, featuring wide, gentle slopes perfect for finding your ski legs.
For those looking for more of a challenge, the Veleta and Laguna de las Yeguas sectors provide steeper terrain and incredible scenery. The Laguna area, in particular, is favoured by advanced skiers for its red and black runs that feel more secluded from the main resort crowds. Because of the high altitude and southern latitude, the resort frequently enjoys blue skies even in the depths of winter, though this means the snow can become "spring-like" and heavy by the afternoon, especially on the lower runs like El Río.
Night Skiing on El Río
On selected nights, usually Thursdays and Saturdays during the peak season, the resort opens the El Río and Maribel slopes for night skiing. This 3.2-kilometre floodlit run allows you to descend from Borreguiles back down to Pradollano under the stars. It is a distinct experience that offers a different perspective of the mountain, with the lights of Granada flickering in the distance far below.
Mirlo Blanco Activity Park
Located at the end of the El Río slope, right next to the Pradollano village, Mirlo Blanco is an ideal spot for families or those who prefer not to strap on a pair of skis. The park features a "Trineo Ruso" (Russian Sled), which is a mountain coaster that winds through the trees on rails. There are also tubing slides, ice skating rinks, and bike-slalom areas, making it a great place to spend an afternoon after the main lifts have closed.
Summer Hiking and the Veleta Summit
When the ski season ends, Pradollano transforms into a base for high-altitude trekking. One of the most popular activities is the ascent of Veleta, which stands at 3,398 metres. During the summer months, the resort operates two lifts—the Al-Ándalus gondola and the Veleta chairlift—to ferry hikers up to 3,000 metres. From there, it is a manageable but steep walk to the summit. On a clear day, you can see the Mediterranean Sea and the coastline of North Africa from the top. Mountain bikers also flock here to tackle the dedicated downhill circuits of the Sierra Nevada Bike Park.
Practical Information
Planning a trip to Pradollano requires some forward thinking, particularly regarding transport and lift passes, as prices vary depending on demand and season.
Opening Times
The ski resort generally opens at 09:00 and the lifts close between 16:15 and 17:00, depending on the specific lift and the time of year. During the summer season (July and August), the main gondolas usually operate from 10:00 to 18:00 to assist hikers and bikers.
Ticket Prices
Sierra Nevada uses a dynamic pricing system for lift passes. For the 2025/26 season, an adult day pass typically ranges from €47 to €66 when purchased online in advance. Tickets bought at the window on the day are always more expensive. Discounts are available for juniors (ages 6–15) and seniors (60–69), while children under 6 and those over 70 pay a reduced insurance fee of approximately €10. Pedestrian passes for those just wanting to take the gondola to Borreguiles cost around €22–€25.
How to Get There
The drive from Granada city centre to Pradollano takes about 45 minutes via the A-395. It is a well-maintained mountain road, but snow chains are often required during winter storms, so check the weather report before you set off.
If you prefer not to drive, a regular bus service operated by Autocares Tocina runs from the Granada Bus Station. During the winter season, there are multiple daily departures (usually at 08:00, 10:00, and 17:00), with a return ticket costing approximately €9. The journey takes about an hour and includes a stop at the Palacio de Congresos in the city centre.
Parking
Parking in Pradollano can be difficult and expensive during weekends. The primary option is the underground Plaza de Andalucía Car Park, which has over 2,600 spaces and provides direct access to the ticket offices and lifts. Expect to pay between €20 and €35 for a full day. A more economical alternative is the Los Peñones open-air car park at the top of the village, which costs around €10 per day. From here, you can take the Parador chairlift down to the central square.
Where to Eat Nearby
The culinary scene in Pradollano is surprisingly varied, ranging from traditional mountain fare to contemporary Mediterranean cuisine. For a classic experience, head to La Antorcha. It is famous for its "hanging" grilled meats served on a small personal stove, which is perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes. The atmosphere is traditional and the portions are generous.
If you are looking for something more refined, Restaurante Vivac in the main square offers modern twists on Spanish dishes with high-quality local ingredients. For a quick tapas break, La Bodega is a reliable choice where you can enjoy a cold beer and local ham while watching the skiers descend El Río. At 2,700 metres, the Swiss Chalet in Borreguiles is the place to go for cheese fondue with a view.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in Pradollano ranges from luxury hotels to functional apartments. The Lodge is the premier choice for those seeking a boutique, alpine-chic experience with ski-in/ski-out access and an outdoor heated pool. For a more traditional and centrally located option, Hotel Meliá Sierra Nevada offers comfortable rooms right next to the main lifts and the lively Plaza de Andalucía. Budget travellers often look towards the Inturjoven Youth Hostel at the top of the village near Los Peñones.