Sierra Nevada & Granada

Day 1
Start at hotel in Berchules.

Day 2
On this first day we take a circular walk from the hotel. Great views and water babbling in the irrigation channels give a good introduction to the Alpujarra. The area is generally agricultural and we will see how the land has been managed through the ages. As well as spotting relics dating back to the middle ages there are stunning views of the region. This will be the shortest and least demanding walk of the week giving a chance to acclimatise. Duration of walk: 5 - 7 hours

Day 3
Today there is the chance to see abundant local flora and fauna while walking through beautiful landscape. The route takes us through several towns and villages, such as Lobras and Timar, until we reach Juviles, home to a 10th century Muslim castle. A 10-minute transfer takes us back to our hotel in Berchules. Duration of walk: 6 - 8 hours, 14km

Day 4
Our day start with a short transfer to the white village of Trevelez - at 1500m the highest village in Spain. The town is particularly famous for the quality of its world-renowned Jamon Serrano. There are shopping opportunities in this larger village and a chance to sample the ham at its source. From here we enjoy a scenic circular walk involving riverside sections and a chance to see the local cowboys handle their herds on the hillsides. Duration of walk: 6 - 7 hours.

Day 5
A short transfer takes us to the beginning of our walk exploring the nature of the Rio Trevelez Valley. We walk along Roman paths through the area of La Taha, a collection of Moorish villages hidden in a deep gorge. Lunch is taken in a tiny bar, where we are offered a selection of local dishes, as available on the day, lunch is paid for locally. Duration of walk: 6 hours

Day 6
The walk will vary with the season. Normally we take a circular walk from the hotel to take a deeper look at our home valley. An amazingly scenic walk giving an easy access through apparently impossible cliffs. Points of historical and folkloric interest are encountered along the way and apddling possibilities at the river crossing. The longest walk of the week at 16km. Duration of walk : 7-8 hours

Day 7
Transfer to Granada (2 hours). We arrive in the city at about 11:30 AM and after check-in there is free time to explore this wonderful city at your own pace. The tour leader is on hand to point you in the right direction. The city is a mecca for tapa-hunters and has an abundance of pleasant squaresto relax in, riverside areas to stroll and monuments abound. There is the opportunity to visit one of Europe's most visited historical monuments- the moslem 14thC Alhambra Palace: if you would like to visit, it is best to pre-book as tickets are restricted. From the hotel, the Alhambra is 20 minutes walk uphill or a 5 minute taxi ride. Overnight in Granada.

Day 8
End at Hotel Dauro in Granada.