GR7
There are various options here,as the GR7 runs along the length of the southern flank of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range. One of the best is the section from Pampaniera to Lanjaron,via Soportujar and Canar. This can be a whole day walk in itself,so we recommend picking one half of the walk to do as a photo-walk in order to give yourself plenty of time to stop and get the images you want. We sometimes run this as a drop-in-and-out walk with vehicle support between some of the nicer bits so you can see sections along the length of the walk from Capileira.
Veleta/Hoya de la Moro
This day-trip starts early but you are well rewarded for the longer drive round to the other side of the mountain by the height that is gained at the top of the road-head at Hoya de la Moro (c3000m). In winter conditions we don snow-shoes and climb up past the old observatory beside the ski area (fantasic views over the Barranco de San Juan below on opposite side to the ski centre). We then use the snow-covered old road to gain the col and easy summit of Veleta (optional,depending on weather and group wishes) where there are amazing views over much of the rest of the Sierra Nevada to the south. In summer conditions,snow-shoes are not necessary,but the views are still great,and this is a day trip that is highly recommended.
Poqueira Gorge (no overnight stop)
Starting above Capileira (if snow permits) at the hydro-electric station of La Cabadilla,we follow the course of the lovely Rio Poqueria as it tumbles it’s way down the mountain. This is a moderately strenuous walk,but is less strenuous than the itinerary that stops overnight in the Refugio Poqueira,as we turn round just below the major steep ascent on the hut approach. After taking a few initial shots of the gorge by the old electricity station buildings,we climb (steeply at first) following a path running above the river for the first couple of kilometres,which is reminiscent of Alpine valleys in places. The river rises and the path drops to then allow access to some wonderful turbulent sections,with small stone bridges crossing the water in many places. This section is fantastic for shots of silky water flowing past bright green leaves,under bridges and past trees. In winter,there is sometimes the added bonus of snow and ice across the landscape,and the river sometimes freezes – at least in part.
Puente Palo
In spring the grassy slopes above Puente Palo burst to life with a wonderful array of wildflowers. It is a moderately strenuous walk to get to the best bits about the Cebollar hut,but worth the effort. For hardy souls there is the option to bivvy out under the stars or inside the remains of the ruined hut – with no-one else around. Once away from the woods above Puente Palo,this is a very little visited part of the Sierra Nevada,despite being very close to a road-head,and the feeling of peace and remoteness is great.
Granada
The Alhambra palace needs no introduction to many. It’s imposing presence above Granada makes it impossible to miss,and offers many great images. However,please be aware,tripods are not allowed in the gardens or palace,so if participants wish to visit,we will concentrate on options available for getting the best shots possible without a tripod. The old town (Albaicin) is also well worth a visit,it’s intricate alleyways and quaint buildings make for some great images. Alternatively,we can wander up the hillside near the back of the palace,and get some great views over the town from this vantage point.
Alternatively perhaps you may be interested in one of our great one-to-two day extensions to the main four-day “holiday with photo tuition”such as the griffon vultures and limestone spires of El Torcal.
