THINGS TO DO
SKIING - Granada is famous for the Sierra Nevada, the most southerly ski resort in Europe. Only 1 hour from Illora and ½ an hour from Granada it really is on the doorstep. The ski season runs from November to April and is guaranteed snow-sure by a very extensive system of snow cannons and has the best sunshine record of any ski resort in Europe. See “skiing” in ouruseful links section for more detailed information.
WALKING & HIKING - The possibilities in the Granada region are endless, with countless Natural & National parks to choose from. The landscape is spectacular and extremely varied, from rolling hills to rugged mountains, from arid plains to lush gorges and waterfalls. There is something here for everyone, be it a picnic by the river, a drive through the mountains or a serious backcountry experience. You’ll never tire of exploring this area.
GOLF - With 3 top quality courses right here within the city limits you could be skiing in the morning and golfing in the afternoon sun. Not many places on the planet can make that claim. Throw in the lack of crowds and it starts to sound pretty ideal. See “golf” in our useful links section for more detailed information.
LAKES & RIVERS - There are many lakes and rivers throughout the area offering water sports, swimming, fishing, walks and picnic areas etc. A few of the best known ones are worth mentioning here, Iznajar Lake, Bermejales Lake, Alhama de Granada and Riofrio. Iznajar, about 1 hour to the west, is a very pretty little village perched precariously above a massive lake. The locals drive to the edge of the lake on a weekend and set up camp for the day with picnics and BBQ’s. The lake is good for swimming, fishing and non motorised craft. Bermejales, about 1 hour to the south, is very similar but has a scattering of villages slightly back from the lakeside. Alhama de Granada, close to Bermejales Lake, is famous for it’s thermal springs and Arab baths. The town sits on the edge of the gorge carved out by the beautiful Rio Alhama, with lovely walks and good fishing. Riofrio, about 40 minutes to the west, is a lovely little hamlet famous for it’s great trout fishing and restaurants which save you the trouble of catching them.
ANTEQUERA - Antequera, about 1 ¼ hours to the west, is a lovely town in it’s own right but also has some additional attractions worth visiting. 19km from Antequera is the Laguna de Fuente de Piedra, the largest natural lake in the Iberian Peninsula and home to over 170 different species of birds. It’s most famous residents are the flamingos, the second largest colony of these birds in Europe and the only inland site on the continent where they breed. The town also boasts a wolf park and a donkey sanctuary, both great entertainment for the kids.
MINI HOLLYWOOD - You will find this famous film set and theme park a couple of hours drive to the East, near Almeria. Used as the set for many famous movies it is packed with things to do and see and makes a great day out.
