A Day Trip
Granada is less than two hours away from Malaga. This means that this stunning Spanish city is an easy day trip from Costa del Sol’s coastline. Booking an early bus there and a late one back gives you a whole day to soak up Granada’s magical atmosphere.
Getting up early is worth it: we arrived in Granada at 10am, before the crowds of tourist buses. At this time on a Saturday, the city is still half asleep and you can have a leisurely breakfast.
Café Bib Rambla, near the cathedral, is highly recommended for a coffee and churros con chocolate.
The Climate
As Granada is a lot higher than Malaga, it’s a lot colder. The crisp winter air was a real contrast from Malaga’s mild climate. Mornings and evenings are particularly chilly in the city; a hat and scarf wouldn’t go amiss.
Granada borders on the Sierra Nevada national park. It’s high altitude means the city has a stunning backdrop of the mountains. This view is even more breathtaking in the winter as snow covers the highest peaks. These mountains are best seen from the viewpoint Mirador San Nicolas where their white caps appear behind the Alhambra. The snowy tops make the castle seem even more magical.
Despite the cold climate during the winter, Granada still has a balmy temperature in the midday sunshine. By lunchtime, everyone was sitting outside with their coats off, sipping cold beers and tinto de verano. This was very surreal with the backdrop of the snowy mountains.
The Atmosphere
Granada is a city with a unique atmosphere. This is best felt in the Albayzin neighbourhood where you can get lost in the winding, pebble streets. Compared to Malaga, the city has an alternative vibe. There are numerous street artists who sell unique merchandise such as paintings, murals and jewellery. Live music from quirky bands fills the streets, creating a lively, bustling environment.
As well as this hippy character, the city has a Morrocan twist. Venture down Calle Caldereria Nueva and explore the charming shops and decorative teterías (tea houses.) From incense to leather bags, the vendors have everything under the sun. For a moment you forget where you are and you are transported to Marrakech!
Casa de Max Moreau
This stunning private house, previously owned by a Belgian artist, is open to the public. This little gem, which has an orchard, a garden and various patios, can be found just below the Mirador.
There are fantastic views of the Alhambra from the terrace where you can avoid the crowds at the Mirador de San Nicolas.
Sunset
This is the most special time of day to head up to the viewpoint Mirador San Nicolas. The golden glow of the sun illuminates the Alhambra in all its glory: making it seem even more like a fairy tale. The light on the beautiful castle changes every time you look. With guitarists playing flamenco and crowds dancing and singing along, the atmosphere is electric.
So there you have it: Granada is a magical city, bursting with character and charisma. It is well worth doing in a day trip but staying the night is definitely recommended: you don’t want to miss the city’s charming night time atmosphere.
La Buena Vida 