Getting There & Away: Sierra Nevada

Air Travel

Airport Access

Two main airports serve the Sierra Nevada region, each with distinct advantages.

Closest Options

Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport (GRX) is approx. 45 km (28 miles) from Pradollano.
GRX mainly handles domestic flights and limited European destinations.
Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) is approx. 160 km (100 miles) from Pradollano.

Connecting Flights

Airlines and flight routes for reaching Sierra Nevada.

Airline Choices

For GRX: Vueling, Iberia Express, Ryanair, easyJet connect Granada to major Spanish cities.
For AGP: A vast array of airlines connect Málaga to hundreds of cities across Europe and beyond.
Flight prices fluctuate based on season and booking in advance.

Airport Facilities

Both GRX and AGP offer car rental desks, taxi stands, cafes, and ATMs. AGP provides a wider range of services.

GRX Transfers

Taxi to Pradollano costs approx. €60-€70. Bus to Granada city, then transfer to Alsa bus for Pradollano.

AGP Transfers

Taxi from AGP to Pradollano is expensive (€180-€250). Renting a car from AGP is a popular choice for flexibility.

Flight Planning Insights

Cost-Saving Tips

Consider Dollar Flight Club for deal alerts.
Be flexible with travel dates for better fares.
Book flights well in advance, especially for peak seasons.
Check prices on Skyscanner for comparisons.

Seasonal Considerations

Winter ski season and summer peak experience higher flight demand.
Shoulder seasons (May-June, Sep-Oct) often have lower prices and fewer crowds.
Avoid major holidays for best fares and less crowded airports.
Flight frequency to GRX increases during peak seasons.

Finding Your Flight

Skyscanner

Compare prices for flexible dates and find the best deals for flights.

Dollar Flight Club

Receive alerts for cheap flights directly to your inbox, saving you money.

Direct Booking

Check airline websites directly after comparing to confirm best rates.

Land Transportation

Rail Connections

No direct train service to Sierra Nevada. The closest train station is Granada.

Granada Rail Hub

Granada Station links to major Spanish cities via Renfe, including high-speed AVE trains to Madrid.
Travel efficiently from other parts of Spain using the rail network.
From Granada train station, take a taxi or local bus to the bus station for transfers to Pradollano.

Bus Services

Buses are a main mode of intercity and regional transport in Spain.

Bus Operators

Alsa is the main bus company, offering regular and frequent services from Granada Bus Station to Pradollano.
This is the most popular and economical way to reach the resort from Granada.
Granada Bus Station serves as a central hub for connections to major Spanish cities.

Car Rental Essentials

Requirements and considerations for renting a car in Spain.

Rental Needs

A valid driving license and, for non-EU citizens, an International Driving Permit.
A credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit.
Request snow chains with your rental car if traveling during winter.

Driving in the Mountains

Roads leading to Sierra Nevada can be challenging due to elevation changes, sharp curves, and potential for ice or snow in winter.

Conditions & Tips

The main road from Granada (A-395) to Pradollano is well-maintained but winding and steep.
Snow chains are frequently mandatory in winter during adverse conditions.
Paid parking is available in Pradollano, often in underground car parks, and can be expensive.

Important Driving Alerts

Drive carefully, reduce speed in adverse weather conditions.
Be aware of other road users, especially cyclists on mountain roads.
Roads can become icy or snow-covered in winter.

Ensure your rental car company provides snow chains if needed.
Pay attention to local signage regarding road closures or chain requirements.
Always prioritize safety on winding mountain roads.

Departure Information

Flight Departures

Plan your departure smoothly from local airports.

Airport Procedures

Spain does not levy specific exit fees or taxes on departing travelers.
Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours for domestic.
Check-in online if your airline offers it for faster processing.

Bus & Train Departures

For bus or train travel, allow sufficient time at the station.

Station Timing

Arrive at the bus or train station at least 30 minutes before departure.
Verify your bus or train platform and gate information upon arrival.
Confirm any schedule changes or delays, especially during peak travel times.

Departure Facilities

Airports (GRX, AGP) offer shops, cafes, and lounges. Granada Bus Station has basic amenities.

Weather Impact

Heavy snowfall in winter can affect road conditions and bus schedules. Plan extra time if adverse weather is expected.

Transfer Options

Confirm your transport from Sierra Nevada to the airport or station in advance, especially for early departures.

Departure Day Tip

Check the weather forecast for your departure day in Sierra Nevada, especially in winter. Heavy snowfall can impact road conditions and bus schedules. Allow extra time if adverse weather is expected.

Getting There & Away