Sierra de Huétor:
walks, nature and things to do near Granada
The Sierra de Huétor Natural Park, 15 minutes from Granada, is one of the most accessible and least crowded natural areas in Andalusia. It offers trails for all levels, coniferous forests, wildlife and unique views of the Sierra Nevada.
Nature Reserve
15min - Granada
Signposted trails
Families and groups
Mountain Bike and Gravel Routes
Discover the Sierra
A nature reserve on the outskirts of
Granada
The Sierra de Huétor Natural Park covers more than 12,000 hectares in the north-west of Granada. Unlike the Sierra Nevada, you don’t need any technical training or special equipment here: its trails are accessible, its forests are well preserved and the atmosphere is peaceful and authentic.
Ideal for half-day getaways, family outings, group trips or simply to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city without travelling too far. Just 15 minutes from Granada via the A-92.
‘The Sierra de Huétor is not just a place you pass through: it is one of the most complete and accessible natural landscapes in Granada.’
12,128 ha – Protected nature reserve
1989 – Year of declaration
Red Natura 2000 - ZEC since 2012
Nature Reserve
What is the Sierra de Huétor Natural Park?
Designated a Natural Park in 1989, the Sierra de Huétor is one of Granada’s green lungs. It dominates the capital’s northern skyline and forms part of the ring of mountain ranges surrounding the city.
Its limestone and dolomite landforms have given rise to a karst landscape featuring lapiaz, caves, galleries, gorges and rock formations of great natural value. The presence of water is also one of its defining features. Major rivers such as the Fardes and the Darro have their source within the park, and there are springs, streams, fountains, irrigation channels and waterfalls that bring the riverside vegetation to life.
A place that the people of Granada know well, but which many visitors have yet to discover. If you’re travelling along the A-92, you’ll find it just 5 minutes from La Mora.
Karst relief
Calares, tajos, lapiaces, caves and limestone formations that give the landscape its distinctive character.
Water and springs
River sources, mountain streams, fountains, irrigation channels and riparian areas.
Water and springs
River sources, mountain streams, fountains, irrigation channels and riparian areas.
Natural and cultural heritage
An area featuring footpaths, historic buildings, woodland and public facilities.
12.128 ha
Protected hectares
1.878m
Highest point — Majalijar Peak
223km
Total cycle network
ZEC – Special Conservation Area since 2012
It forms part of the Natura 2000 network due to its biodiversity and geological features.
Hiking
Hiking trails in the
Sierra de Huétor
Routes for all levels, ranging from family walks to half-day hikes through woods, ravines, viewpoints and areas of outstanding natural beauty.
3,7 km · 1h 30 min · 125m
Sendero Cerro del Maúllo
One of the best-known routes in the area around Puerto Lobo. It is an accessible route, offering natural and historical points of interest, and is ideal for exploring a typical part of the Sierra de Huétor without undertaking a particularly demanding hike.
1,4 km · 30min-1h · 67m
Sendero Puerto Lobo
A perfect choice for those wishing to explore the Sierra de Huétor for the first time. It allows you to enjoy the surroundings of the visitor centre, wooded areas and easy-to-walk paths, providing a gentle introduction to the park.
14 km · 3,5–4 h · 350-600m
Sendero Cañada del Sereno
A route that is very representative of the Sierra de Huétor, featuring sections of woodland, open views and paths that showcase the park’s varied landscape. It is a good choice for walkers looking for a more comprehensive route.
6.0 km · approx. 2 hours · +280 m
From Huétor Santillán
Ruta de acceso al parque desde el casco urbano de Huétor Santillán. Perfecta para grupos que hacen la parada en La Mora y quieren entrar a pie a la Sierra.
11.4 km · 3 hours 15 minutes · 240 m
Padro Negro Waterfalls Trail
A charming route through the Sierra de Huétor, ideal for enjoying water features, lush vegetation and a cooler, more natural landscape.
Approx. 5.6 km · 1 hr 30 mins · 140 m
Sendero Las Mimbres
A peaceful walk to enjoy the natural surroundings, the vegetation and the feeling of being far from the noise of the city, without straying too far from Granada.
Distances and times may vary depending on the starting point, the condition of the trails and each person’s pace. Always check the condition of the trails before setting off.
What to visit
Places of interest in the
Sierra de Huétor
Visitor Centre
Puerto Lobo
The Puerto Lobo Visitor Centre is one of the main points of interest for exploring the Sierra de Huétor Natural Park. The surrounding area features signposted footpaths, a recreational area, viewing points, an amphibian observation area and ideal spots from which to begin your visit.
11 minutes from La Mora
Viewpoints
Cueva del Gato, Las Veguillas and Collado del Agua
The Sierra de Huétor has several viewpoints from which to admire its landscapes, pine forests, ravines and valleys. Among the most notable are Cueva del Gato, Las Veguillas and Collado del Agua, each offering a different perspective of the park.
20 minutes from La Mora
Recreational areas
Fuente de los Potros
Fuente de los Potros is one of the park’s best-known recreational areas. It features a rest area, a picnic area, a children’s playground, a fountain and several nearby walking routes, making it a great spot for families and groups.
14 minutes from La Mora
Forest area
Las Mimbres
The area around Las Mimbres offers a peaceful woodland setting, with pleasant paths, varied vegetation and links to family-friendly routes and signposted trails. It is a good choice for those looking to enjoy nature without having to tackle overly demanding routes.
13 minutes from La Mora
Water and landscape
Prado Negro and Despeñadero Waterfall
Prado Negro is one of the most charming areas in the vicinity of the Sierra de Huétor. Highlights in the surrounding area include the Prado Negro stream, the limestone formations, the riverside vegetation and the Despeñadero Waterfall, a very distinctive feature of the landscape.
20 minutes from La Mora
Heritage and history
Trench Trail
The Trench Trail offers an insight into a part of the history of the area around the Sierra de Huétor. It is an interesting tour for those who wish to combine nature, historical memory and the landscape.
13 minutes from La Mora
Cycle tourism
Cycling routes in the
Sierra de Huétor
The Sierra de Huétor is also a very interesting destination for cyclists. The park boasts an extensive network of forest tracks, paths and external links, allowing visitors to explore much of the protected area by bike.
Beas de Granada to Diezma route
A linear route that runs through the eastern part of the park and links up with the landscapes of the Barrancos del Río Aguas Blancas Special Area of Conservation (SAC), the Sierra de Arana SAC and the Granada Geopark.
42.73 km · High difficulty · Mountain biking / Gravel
Cogollos – Prado Negro – Cogollos Route
A challenging circular route that starts in Cogollos Vega, passes through Nívar, Alfacar, La Alfaguara, Fuente de los Potros and Prado Negro, taking in some of the park’s most characteristic woodland landscapes.
61.91 km · Very high difficulty · Circular route
Huétor Santillán – Prado Negro Route
A route linking Huétor Santillán with Prado Negro and passing through key areas such as Puerto Lobo, Cueva del Gato, Las Veguillas, Cañada del Sereno and Fuente de los Potros.
56.59 km · Very high difficulty · Starting from Huétor Santillán
Prado Negro Circular Walk
A route through the central part of the Sierra de Huétor Natural Park, passing through Fuente de los Potros, Las Mimbres, Cañada del Sereno, Fuente de la Teja and the landscapes along the Prado Negro stream.
49.87 km · Very high difficulty · Circular route
Víznar Circular Walk
A circular route starting in Víznar and passing through Puerto Lobo, Las Veguillas, Cañada del Sereno, Fuente de los Potros and La Alfaguara, combining woodland scenery, viewpoints and areas of great geological interest.
58.38 km · Medium difficulty · Circular route
Sillar Baja – Prado Negro Route
A linear route that crosses the heart of the nature reserve from Sillar Baja to Prado Negro, passing through areas of holm oak woodland, pine forests, limestone formations, Fuente de los Potros and the Despeñadero Waterfall.
Sillar Baja – Prado Negro Route
44.28 km · High difficulty · Mountain biking / Gravel
Cycle routes may overlap with official footpaths and pedestrian crossings in some sections. Pedestrians always have right of way. Check the route and make sure you have a helmet, water, a mobile phone and repair kit before setting off.
For everyone
The Sierra de Huétor for families, groups and walkers
The Sierra de Huétor isn’t just for experienced walkers. It’s a place for everyone: parents with young children, groups of friends, schools, clubs and anyone who wants to spend a day in the countryside without needing any specialist kit.
La Mora, your base
La Mora: the perfect starting point for the Sierra
Before heading into the Sierra de Huétor, La Mora is a good place to stop for breakfast, refuel, organise the group or have a drink before setting off on the route. On the way back, it’s a convenient spot to rest, have lunch and continue your journey along the A-92.
Breakfast is served from 7.00 am
Daily special every day
Food to take on the road
Group bookings
Ample, free parking
Petrol station next to the entrance
Toilets, showers and Wi-Fi
5 minutes from the park
FAQS
Everything you need to know before visiting the Sierra
Where is the Sierra de Huétor Nature Reserve?
The Sierra de Huétor Natural Park is situated in the province of Granada, some 20 km north-east of the provincial capital. It covers municipalities such as Alfacar, Beas de Granada, Cogollos Vega, Diezma, Huétor Santillán, Nívar and Víznar.
Do you have to pay to enter the Nature Reserve?
No. Entry to the Sierra de Huétor Natural Park is completely free of charge and does not require a booking in advance. It is open 365 days a year. You simply need to follow the rules of the protected natural area.
Are the routes suitable for families with children?
Yes. There are family-friendly footpaths and walking areas, provided you choose easy routes that are suitable for children of all ages. Before setting off, it’s a good idea to check the distance, elevation gain, availability of shade and the weather forecast.
When is the best time to visit the Sierra de Huétor?
Spring and autumn are usually the best times of year in terms of temperature and scenery. In summer, it is advisable to set off early and avoid the hottest part of the day. In winter, it is a good idea to check the weather forecast, especially if rain, cold or snow are forecast in higher areas.
Can you take dogs to the Sierra de Huétor?
Yes, you can visit the Sierra de Huétor with your dog, provided it is kept on a lead and you respect the natural environment. It is important to bring water and bags to collect its faeces, and to ensure that your dog does not disturb the wildlife or other visitors.