Sierra Nevada, located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain, is renowned for being Europe’s southernmost ski resort and one of its highest. The ski domain centres on the Veleta Peak (3,282 m / 10,768 ft), from which you can sometimes spot the Mediterranean Sea—and even the coast of Morocco on exceptionally clear days.
As one of the best known ski resorts in Spain, Sierra Nevada with roughly 320 days of sunshine a year, offers a unique blend of Spanish culture, spectacular views, and diverse ski terrain. This guide covers everything you need to plan your perfect Sierra Nevada ski holiday—from its ski area and terrain to dining, après-ski, and key travel tips.
Let’s get started!
Sierra Nevada sits in the Penibaetic mountain range, about 78 km (48 miles) from Granada and roughly an hour’s drive from the Mediterranean coast.
For a detailed view of Sierra Nevada's location, you can explore it on Google Maps.
Nearest airport
Transfer time
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spectacular views | Visibility can suffer in bad weather |
| High-altitude domain | Expert terrain is limited |
| Easy access from Granada | Weekend queues can form at key lifts |
| Modern lift infrastructure | Lack Alpine charm |
Watch Sierra Nevada on YouTube .
Les Contamines has two beginners’ areas in the village centre—“Loyers” and “Nivorin”—both equipped with a drag lift and suitable for novices. These gentle slopes are easily accessible with a beginner ski pass or individual tickets. While the resort’s main domain can feel steeper, these village zones help newcomers build confidence before venturing up the mountain.
Intermediates are well-served by a range of blue and red runs that roll between forests and open slopes. The area’s best cruising can be found around the Signal gondola and Tierces sector, with scenic descents back down to Belleville or Hauteluce. Even on cloudy days, tree-lined runs offer good visibility and some shelter from the elements.
With 9 black runs in the official count and numerous ungroomed routes, Les Contamines provides advanced skiers with steep and challenging terrain, such as the runs off the Aiguille Croche. There’s also scope for off-piste exploration, especially when fresh snowfalls grace the upper bowls or glades.
Snowboarders can enjoy varied terrain, from freeride-friendly tree lines to well-maintained pistes. The resort has introduced X-Zones for freestyle enthusiasts:
The ski season in Les Contamines for 2024/25 began on December 14th and is expected to run until April 13th, although the official closing date has yet to be confirmed. If you're planning a ski holiday this winter, be sure to explore our Les Contamines-Montjoie deals for the best ski offers available.
Les Contamines offers optimal snow conditions from December through April, each month presenting unique opportunities for skiers. December and January consistently bring about 36 cm (14.17 in) and 40 cm (15.74 in) of snow respectively, dispersed across roughly 3.0 days each week, ensuring regular fresh snow. February's snowfall slightly decreases to 29 cm (11.41 in) but occurs more frequently, averaging 3.2 days per week. The pinnacle of snowfall arrives in the first week of March, traditionally the snowiest week in Les Contamines, with an impressive 53 cm (20.86 in) of snow over 4.0 days, making it a paradise for those who cherish Bluebird Powder Days—when sunshine and light winds follow fresh snowfall. The season stretches into April with enjoyable conditions, accumulating 17 cm (6.69 in) of snow over 2.2 days, perfect for softer snow under brighter skies.
| Month | Snow amount (week) | Snow days (week) |
|---|---|---|
| December | 36 cm/14.17 in | 2.8 days |
| January | 40 cm/15.74 in | 2.9 days |
| February | 29 cm/11.41 in | 3.0 days |
| March | 32 cm/12.59 in | 2.9 days |
| April | 17 cm/6.69 in | 1.9 days |
(Ref: snow-forecast.com)
Although Les Contamines is compact, it offers a good selection of Savoyard, French, and international dining options. Highlights include:
True to its family-friendly ethos, Les Contamines’s après-ski scene is low-key. A few bars at the base area and in the village welcome skiers back from the slopes with vin chaud (mulled wine) and local craft beers. If you’re craving more nightlife, the nearby resorts of Saint-Gervais or Megève offer a livelier scene. Après-ski highlights include:
Download Les Contamines village map here
