The Lecrin Valley, where La Esperanza Granada is located, is near Granada and Malaga, two of Andalucia’s most culturally rich cities. It is also a short drive to the lovely Costa Tropical. Its name means “Valley of Happiness“ in old Moorish language and it is home to some lovely white stone towns that many describe as the real Spain.“

Highlights of your visit include the pretty town of Saleres, the look-out panoramic point in Melegis, the weekly market of Albunuelas on Thursday, the waterfall baths of Conchar, and the olive oil mill in Nigeulas.

Add a wonderful lunch and wine tasting at a local winery in the end.

The starting point of the walking trail to this amazing valley of ancient stone and greenery is just a few minutes’ walk from La Esperanza Granada. Access to this point involves a 30 to 60-minute hike down that is best undertaken by nature enthusiasts with previous hiking experience and proper footwear.

Nevertheless, local families with children undertake this trek practically every weekend in the summer so it is not an impossible hike.

Those who choose to do this walk will be rewarded with views and scenery reminiscent of what many imagine the Garden of Eden to be like.

The exotic and mysterious Alpujarras mountain range, considered Spain’s last frontier, is full of history and intrigue. Queen Isabella the Catholic reportedly chased the Moors through these rugged paths of steep rock after driving them out of the beautiful city of Granada, which they had inhabited for over 700 years.

Apart from the majestic nature, visitors can stop in the spa town of Lanjaron for organic herbs and teas and handmade souvenirs, and visit the picture-pretty towns built on the cliffs.

The quaint capital of Orgiva is worth a visit, as are the three villages in the Alpujarras — Pampaneira, Bunion and Capileira — that have recently made it to the list of the most beautiful towns of Spain.

Ride one of Southern Spain’s famed horses along mountain trails and through real Spanish towns. Our stable partners nearby can take four riders at their ranch.

Guests with a more experience or who wish to take proper riding lessons can head to our partner ranch in the Sierra Nevada mountain range where riding is arranged in the national park.

The Lecrin Valley is a main destination for cycling enthusiasts from Granada, but also from all over Europe.

There are hundreds of trail options to suit all levels — from seven-kilometer routes for beginners to 80-kilometer roundtrip day trips to the coast via quiet winding paths for serious cyclists.

Guests who do not wish to bring their own bicycles can rent a leisure electric bike or a professional mountain bike from one of our partners. We provide detailed maps and itineraries based on level and preferences. A biking guide can also be arranged.

The Beznar dam is just a short drive from La Esperanza Granada, and the road goes through some charming Andalucia towns with little hint of commercialism.

In the summer, from June to September, the reservoir is open to windsurfers and facilities and equipment are available for rent with advance notice.

After a morning on the water, head for one of our favorite local restaurants for a nice lunch washed down with excellent wine from the Alpujarras mountains.