Climb to the top of Spain! Mulhacén is the highest mountain in mainland Spain, towering 3,479 metres above sea level, so it’s not surprising that it offers amazing views. If the weather is clear, you can see right down to the Mediterranean Sea. The landscape is mainly rocky and barren, but many of the plants that do grow here are unique. You are also very likely to see ibex during your walk.
Level For such a high mountain, Mulhacén is relatively easy to climb in summer, thanks to a bus service that takes you up to around 2,600 metres. The descent is steep and can be slippery, so we recommend wearing hiking boots. The route is easy to follow and is marked by cairns.
When to go The route is only possible in summer and early autumn. The mountains are snow-capped in winter, and most years the snow does not melt until June or even July. There can be patches of snow even in midsummer. It is worth checking at the information kiosk in Capileira for advice on the latest weather conditions. Even in summer it can be cold at the top (particularly in cloudy and windy conditions) so take warm clothing.
Water None on the route, so make sure you take enough for the long climb up.
Location: Alpujarras, Capileira The hike is accessed from the village of Capileira using a special bus service (see Transport below).
Transport
To get to the start of the walk, you need to take the special bus service from Capileira to Paraje del Cascajar. This is much higher than you are allowed to drive in a private car. We recommend booking the bus in advance. Click here for details.
To get to Capileira:
By Car: From Granada, take the E-902/A-44 towards Motril. Take exit 164 and take the A-348 towards Lanjarón. Carry on past Lanjarón and after about a further 8km turn left onto the A-4132, marked towards Trevélez (the turning is just after you enter Órgiva). Follow this road until you get past Pampaneira, then turn up to the left following signs for Bubión and Capileira.
By Bus: Capileira is served by Alsa services from Granada bus station (4 per day). Click here for more details.
