Skiing from the Costa del Sol: A Quick Trip to the Slopes of Sierra Nevada
When you think of the Costa del Sol, images of sunny beaches, luxury yachts, and palm-lined promenades probably come to mind. But did you know that within just two and a half hours, you can swap your swimsuit for ski gear and hit the slopes in Sierra Nevada?
If you’re visiting Marbella during winter and want to experience a unique ski-and-sea getaway, this guide will show you how to plan the perfect skiing trip from Marbella to Sierra Nevada.
Why Ski in Sierra Nevada?
Located in Granada, Sierra Nevada Ski Resort is Europe’s southernmost ski destination and boasts:
✔ Over 100 km of slopes – With runs for all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers.
✔ Reliable snowfall – Thanks to its high altitude (up to 3,300m), the snow conditions are great.
✔ Sunshine & mild weather – Skiing under the Spanish sun? Yes, please!
✔ Night skiing – Enjoy a unique experience on illuminated slopes.
✔ A lively après-ski scene – Bars, restaurants, and cozy spots to unwind.
With its proximity to the Costa del Sol, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: skiing in the mountains by day and dining by the beach in the evening.
How to Get from the Costa del Sol to Sierra Nevada
The fastest and easiest way to get from Marbella to Sierra Nevada is by car. Here’s what you need to know:
•Distance: Approx. 210 km
•Drive Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
•Route: Take the AP-7 highway towards Málaga, then the A-92 motorway towards Granada. From Granada, follow signs to Sierra Nevada Ski Resort.
Tip: If you’re renting a car, make sure it has snow chains (required on some roads in winter).
If you don’t want to drive, you can take a bus from Marbella to Granada, then a second bus from Granada to Sierra Nevada. However, this takes longer and is less convenient.
Best Way to Plan a Ski Day from the Costa del Sol
1. Start Early
To maximize your time on the slopes, leave around 6:30 – 7:00 AM. This way, you’ll arrive by 9:30 – 10:00 AM, just in time to get your ski pass and hit the slopes.
2. Rent Your Gear in Advance
If you don’t have ski equipment, you can rent everything at the resort. However, for a smoother experience, consider booking your ski gear online in advance.
3. Buy Your Ski Pass Online
To avoid queues, book your ski pass through the official Sierra Nevada website. Prices vary, but a day pass typically costs around €50-€60.
4. Enjoy the Slopes!
Sierra Nevada has:
•Beginner-friendly green and blue runs
•Intermediate red runs
•Advanced black runs for expert skiers and snowboarders
Don’t miss the Veleta Peak (3,396m) for breathtaking views!
5. Après-Ski & Lunch
After a few hours of skiing, take a break at one of the slope-side restaurants. Try local dishes like “plato alpujarreño” (a hearty mountain dish with ham, eggs, and potatoes) or warm up with some mulled wine.
6. Head Back home by Sunset
If you’re doing a day trip, aim to leave by 4:30 – 5:00 PM so you can make it back to Marbella by 8:00 PM—just in time for a beachfront dinner!
Where to Stay if You Want a Weekend Trip
If you’d rather stay overnight, there are great accommodation options in Sierra Nevada:
🏔 Luxury Stay: El Lodge Ski & Spa – A beautiful alpine-style hotel with a spa and mountain views.
🏔 Mid-Range Stay: Hotel Kenia Nevada – Cozy and close to the slopes.
🏔 Budget Stay: Hostels & Apartments – Great for groups or solo travelers.
Ski & Beach in One Day – Is It Possible?
Absolutely! One of the coolest things about Marbella is that you can:
🌊 Start your morning with a beach walk in Marbella
❄️ Ski in Sierra Nevada for a few hours
🌅 Return to the Costa del Sol for sunset drinks by the sea
Where else can you experience snow and sun in a single day?
Final Thoughts: Why Skiing from the Costa del Sol is a Must-Do
The Costa del Sol may be known for its beaches and nightlife, but a quick ski trip to Sierra Nevada is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor seeking something unique, this ski-and-sea combo is a bucket-list experience.
So, next time you’re in Marbella in winter, grab your ski gear and head for the mountains—you won’t regret it!
Have you done a ski trip from Marbella? Share your experience in the comments!