Today, Dad and I left Órgiva and went hiking in Barranco de Poqueira. This mountainous area in Granada is famous for its walking routes and the three small towns: Pampaneira, Bubión, and Capileira. Normally, these towns would all be white, however, as a result of the calima (dust storm), they were all very brown. The snow in the Sierra Nevada, however, was very white-an impressive backdrop while driving up the windy roads.
We parked at Pampaneira and began our ascent to Bubión. From there, we crossed the valley and followed the signs (no need for a map) to Capileira. These towns are all known for their jarapas which are traditional thick rugs made in the Alpujarras. There was a great restaurant, El Tilo, in Capileira with funky tunes. The direct route back to Bubión took us 15mins.
We walked slowly and had a drinks break in Capileira, but all in all, the 8km walk took us 4.5hrs and I'd rate it Moderate. It was very enjoyable, not too busy, and I was able to see a completely new, mountainous, side of Spain. I was particularly interested in the abandoned stone huts, dry stone walls, and Alpujarreñan chimneys that we passed.
After dining at the delicious Halal restaurant, Baraka, I've noticed a lot of hippies in Órgiva. It turns out that there are three hippie communities in the area that began in the 80s/90s.
While the Alpujarras towns themselves are not particularly beautiful (mostly due to calima), the scenery certainly is, and there is a relaxed tranquil vibe about the place. I will certainly be returning for more hikes.
Notes:
- Yesterday, we drove to Soportújar, also known as the 'Witches' Village' as it adopted a bewitched theme in the 80s as a way of attracting tourists.
- We're staying at the wonderful Casa Jazmin in Órgiva which does a wonderful bed and breakfast.
Comments