Taking it’s name from the moutain range of the same name, the exotic-sounding Sierra Nevada is the southernmost resort in Europe within sight of the Mediterranean’s beaches, but its pedigree is demonstrated by the fact that it has hosted the world Alpine championships. In fact, some consider this to be one of the best places for a winter holiday, as conditions are good and there is the added bonus of being near the historic city of Granada an hour away from the Costa del Sol.

Four restaurants provide fast food, drinks, and à la carte meals on the slopes. Additionally, the resort village of Pradollano is packed with bars, restaurants and bakeries. At night, the village turns into a lively nightspot with a wide selection of bars and discos. Sierra Nevada is known as a place where the beautiful people like to hang out, but if you get bored of the resort’s nightlife, then head to nearby Granada. This historic city is also home to a university and consequently has a vibrant bar and club scene.

There's a good range of accommodation in Sierra Nevada’s Pradollano resort, from luxurious hotels with health and fitness centres to cheaper hostels and Alpine-style self-catering apartments. However, they all charge resort prices for their food and drinks and, if you are on a budget, you may want to stay at one of cheaper places on the road leading to the mountain, or in Granada itself.

Sierra Nevada has 48 pistes covering 70kms, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. Snowboarders are looked after with a park and half-pipe reserved for their use. Expert skiers can take advantage of some sensational off-piste skiing with spectacular views of the Mediterranean and, on particularly clear days, Morocco.

Visitors to Sierra Nevada should make the time to visit Granada, especially its famed Alhambra Palace - the most stunning legacy of the Moorish sultans that ruled the Al-Andalus kingdom for nearly eight centuries. It’s amongst the best tourist attractions to be found in Spain and it truly is breathtaking.

Found on Sierra Nevada’s southern slopes, the Alpujarras region is also well worth a daytrip. The region is stunning, with ancient villages located on the mountainsides, living their life much as they did centuries ago. The region was also the Moors final stronghold.

The season lasts from December to May. Granada and Malaga airports are within easy reach. From Granada, take the A-92 by car or by bus.