Marbella: Gateway to Sun and Snow
Renowned for its sun-kissed beaches, Marbella is the epitome of seaside luxury. However, what many don’t know is that just a short drive away lies a winter sports haven. Nestled in the Andalusian region of Southern Spain is the province of Granada, home to the spectacular Sierra Nevada ski resort.
Perched atop El Mulhacén, the Iberian Peninsula’s loftiest peak at 3,479 meters, Sierra Nevada defies the typical image of sunny Spain with its impressive ski slopes and stunning mountain scenery. This unique juxtaposition allows one to revel in Marbella’s warm beaches and, within three hours, whisk down the snowy trails of Spain’s highest mountain. Sierra Nevada’s allure peaks during the Christmas holidays, attracting those who desire a blend of coastal charm and mountain adventure.
Sierra Nevada is a testament to Spain’s diverse climate. Despite the country’s sunny disposition, the resort utilizes snow machines to maintain its pristine slopes, ensuring a consistent snow-covered experience from December to April. Additionally, it offers the exhilarating experience of night skiing, where enthusiasts can enjoy the slopes under starlit skies, further enhancing the allure of this winter wonderland close to Marbella’s sunny shores.
Facts at a Glance (09/10):
Resort Base Level | 2100m |
Top Station | 3300m (Veleta peak 3398m) |
Vertical Drop | 1200m |
Slope Orientation | NW & W |
Pisted Runs | 102.89 kilometres (inc. Snowboard Park) over 115 runs |
Green Runs | 16 |
Blue Runs | 40 |
Red Runs | 50 |
Black Runs | 9 |
Longest Run | “El Aguila” – 6.18 kms |
Cross Country Skiing | 1 circuit. 4 kilometres |
Number of Lifts | 29 (2 Gondolas; 16 Chairlifts (6 Detachable); 2 T-bar drag lift; 8 Conveyer Belt, 1 rope drag) |
Lift Opening Times | 09.00 to 17.00 (Last lift up 16.45) |
Total Lift Capacity | 47,141 skiers per hour |
No. of Ski Areas | 6 (Veleta; Laguna De Las Yeguas; Borreguiles; Lomar de Dilar; Rio Monachil; Parador) |
Snow Making | 350 canons & 725 hydrants over 33 kms of piste on 32 runs. |
Child Care |
2 options: 1 – The “Snow Garden” in Borreguiles main ski area, 2 – The crèche at the base of Al-Andalus Gondola) |
Night Skiing | Saturdays from 19.00 to 21.30hrs (subject to weather /snow conditions) |
Freestyle Parks | 1 with half-pipe, full range of jumps & rails plus a small lift. 1 Mini-Park with a small selection of ramps and rails. |