The Alpujarras, also named as the Alpujarra, is unique, an area of stunning natural beauty with a delightful climate, it has almost completely avoided the ravages of twentieth century life. Dominated by the magnificent rugged peaks of Spain’s highest mountain range, the Sierra Nevada, the foothills of the southern slopes are cut by deep, fertile valleys, rich with groves of almonds and olives, oranges and lemons, cherry orchards and terraced pastures.
The variety of landscape and the contrasts in topography have given la Alpujarra a wealth of diversified plant life; the region has the largest number of unique botanical species in Europe. Herds of mountain goats, wild boar, eagles, goshawks and partridge inhabit the sierra. The area has been declared a Natural Park by the Government of Andalusia and UNESCO has granted it Biosphere Reserve status.
Just twenty miles from the Costa del Sol, the climate is typical of Andalusia, warm and sunny with crystal-clear, blue skies throughout most of the year. The mountain air is the cleanest in Europe and, because of the altitude, the heat in mid-summer is not overbearing as it can be in much of Spain.
La Alpujarra is the name given to this region by the Moors, who remained hidden in these hills for over 100 years after their retreat from their Kingdom in Granada. Their legacy is to be seen everywhere, not least in the architecture of the delightful mountain villages, built in typical Berber style. The whitewashed stone houses with their characteristic flat roofs and prominent chimney pots, cluster haphazardly in narrow, twisting streets. Many are adorned with summer flowers.
The pace of village life is slow and tranquil. It is not unusual to see sheep or goats herded through the village streets, or senior citizens relaxing on shady corners, watching the world go by.
The trappings of mass-tourism are thankfully absent, but it is easy to find attractive restaurants and bars where the gastronomic delights of the region as well as international dishes may be savored. La Alpujarra has long been a home for artists and writers, attracted to the area by its enchanting beauty. Local potters, weavers and carpenters display the fruits of their labor in the village craft shops.
