Road trip guide: Conquering Puerto Molina in Sierra Nevada
Puerto Molina is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.394m (7,854ft) above sea level, located in the region of Andalusia, Spain. It’s one of the highest roads in the country.
Where is Puerto Molina?
The pass is located in the province of Granada, in the southern part of the country.
Is Puerto Molina worth it?
At the summit there’s an observation deck known as Mirador Puerto Molina. This fabulous viewpoint, located in Capileira, is right at the foot of the trail. It features two distinct interpretive areas, although both share the fact of offering an impressive panoramic view. Access is via stone-lined paths, and the site is equipped with several interpretive panels providing information about the geological history of the area as well as its most notable wildlife. In short, Puerto Molina is a must-stop on the ascent from Hoya del Portillo to the Trevélez viewpoint. The views of the southern part of Sierra Nevada Natural Park on one side, including the Poqueira gorge, the Toril River, and almost the entire line of three-thousand-meter peaks, and on the other side, the Contraviesa, Sierra de Lújar, and the Mediterranean Sea on clear days, make this iconic spot a truly special viewpoint.
Is the road to Puerto Molina unpaved?
The road through the pass is totally unpaved. It’s called Camino de los Franceses (also known as Camino del Mulhacén). The road provides stunning views and climbs many mountain passes. It also provides views of several alpine lakes.
How long is the road through Puerto Molina?
The road through the pass is 23.3 km (14.47 miles) long and runs north-south from Veleta peak to a small town called Capileira.
Is the road through Puerto Molina open?
Set high in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, the road is totally impassable in winters. Avalanches, heavy snowfalls, and landslides can occur anytime. To protect the wilderness of the national park, only bicycles are allowed on the road.
Pic: Dan Sheehan