The Best Bars in Spain's Sierra Nevada

Located in the tranquil Cumbres Verdes (Green Peaks) region of the Sierra Nevada, about a 20-minute drive from Granada, Fuente del Hervidero is a rustic country restaurant with a massive outside terrace. It’s the perfect spot to tuck into a cold beer and hearty Andalusian fare after a trek or bike ride, whilst enjoying views of the 2,079-metre (6,821-foot) Mount Trevenque.

Even if it offered nothing more than its spectacular terrace – boasting magnificent views over the Poqueira valley – this would still be Capileira’s coolest bar. Teteria Magick also makes this list because of its varied cultural offering, with everything from tango classes to open-mic nights staged in an interior that doubles up as an art gallery. The cocktails and the fusion teas aren’t bad either.

El Tilo boasts a shaded terrace on the lovely Plaza Calvario, Capileira’s main square, with captivating views of the surrounding mountains. It’s an unbeatable spot to relax with a cold beer and regional tapas after trekking in the surrounding countryside (you can summit mainland Spain’s highest peak from Capileira). If you’re after a proper meal rather than tapas, the €10 (USD$11.60) menu del día is superb value.

Asador El Lagar’s regional charm is evident before you even enter, with a heavy wooden door set into a whitewashed exterior. As promised by the décor, this is a super-traditional joint, where you can enjoy tapas or (enormous) raciones on an intimate terrace or in a cosy interior. Don’t leave without trying the albondigas con salsa de almendras – meatballs in almond sauce.

Mesón Joaquin is one the best-appointed bars in Trevélez, the highest of the Alpujarras villages at an altitude of 1,476 metres (4,843 feet). With a terrace just off the main drag, looking out to the snowy peak of Mount Mulhacén, it’s an unimprovable spot to come for a plate of cured jamón, the product for which Trevélez is famous. Don’t hesitate to ask the friendly owners if you want tips about exploring the Alpujarras.

Since opening two years ago, Badia has established itself as one of the most popular bars in Pradollano, the main town of the Sierra Nevada’s ski resort (also referred to as “Sierra Nevada”). It offers a sleek, modern exterior – a pleasing contrast to the region’s more traditional hangouts – and a terrace with views over the pristine slopes, making it the ideal spot for a post-skiing lunch. The homemade hamburgers are amazing.

Another great spot for tapas and beers if you’re exploring the Cumbres Verdes is the bar in Hotel Zerbinetta. Situated just outside the small town of Dilar, this rustic country hotel has two big terraces, both offering magnificent views of the Sierra’s foothills and the jagged profile of Mount Trevenque. On cold winter afternoons, alternatively, you can take refuge in an interior that feels like a giant Alpine lodge.