Pampaneira, Jewel of the Alpujarra of Granada - What to See and Do, Where to Eat

Pampaneira is the first village of Ravine of Poqueira (Barranco de Poqueira) when arriving from Granada.


From the road, three white villages can be seen hanging on the mountain very close to each other. The first on our way, at an altitude of 1,058 meters, is Pampaneira.

Much of its territory is within the Sierra Nevada National Park and, together with the adjoining villages of Bubión (1,300m) and Capileira (1,436m), they form the the Historical Complex of the Poqueira Ravine.

This beautiful village preserves many of the identity signs of the region that have attracted so many romantic travelers: its narrow and steep cobbled streets with small water channels in the center, its traditional white houses, tinaos (small corridors that link two houses) along with local craft shops.

Here, as in many other villages of the Alpujarra, many artists and retired foreigners have settled. Although it is quite a touristy village, in reality, only about 350 people live here.

A Glimpse into the History of Pampaneira

It is said that the name Pampaneira comes from the Latin word pampinarius, which means producer of vine leaves, indicating that this was a land famous for its vineyards and wine in Roman times.

The remains of important medieval settlements have been found here, such as those of Alayar and Belezmín, which was the first settlement in the Taha de Poqueira founded by Yemenis.

Pampaneira enjoyed great wealth and influence in the Nasrid period, thanks to the prosperous silk trade that thrived in the city.

After the Alpujarra Rebellion, which culminated in the expulsion of the Moors, the area was repopulated with Christians from León and Galicia.

What to See and Do in Pampaneira?

Pampaneira boasts a rich cultural life, various festivals, exhibitions and other events are held here throughout the year. There is always something interesting to do in Pampaneira.

Hiking Near Pampaneira

If you enjoy hiking, one of the most beautiful and popular routes in the Alpujarra starts right here.

It is the Barranco de Poqueira route and it will lead you to one of the most impressive landscapes of Sierra Nevada.

The magnificent Poqueira River, winding through the steep ravine of its namesake, is lined with lush vegetation, including mulberry and chestnut trees.

On the hill near Pampaneira, in the shadier section, lies a forest filled with Portuguese oaks, holm oaks, and chestnut trees. This area is perfect for a leisurely countryside stroll.

Plaza de la Libertad (Freedom Square)

In the Plaza de la Libertad stands the Iglesia Parroquial de la Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz Church), which is a beautiful example of Mudejar architecture from the first half of the 16th century.

This square is a popular place due to the variety of bars and restaurants that offer delicious tapas. It's a great spot to soak up the sun, savor local gastronomy, and explore interesting handicraft shops.

Our favorite bar/restaurant: the terrace of the Belezmín.

Streets and Beauty Spots

The best way to explore Pampaneira is by taking a stroll through its narrow cobblestone streets. Here, you will discover truly breathtaking mountain scenery and a unique history.

You will find beautiful places, such as the old Lavadero del Cerrillo (old washhouse) and the Fuente Gaseosa de Sonsoles which, as its name indicates , sparkling (gaseosa) water comes out of its pipes.

Also, visit the fountain of San Antonio, the so-called marriage fountain, also called Fuente de Chumpaneira, whose waters are said solve that problem of singleness.

Look for Calle Real and Paseo García Lorca streets, where you will enjoy wonderful views of the high peaks of Sierra Nevada and nearby towns: Bubión and Capileira. There are beautiful "tinaos" full of flowers along the way.

Castle of Poqueira

Not many people know that there is a Nasrid castle in Pampaneira, although it is in a dilapidated state, you would not recognize it as a castle.

It is Poqueira Castle built on a rock overlooking the Poqueira Valley, the Sierra Mecina and the Guadalfeo Valley. It protected the old Taha de Poqueira , and dates back to the 12th-13th centuries.

It is located near the main road A-4132, between Pampaneira and Pitres, and today it is a magnificent viewpoint that is well worth a stop on the way.

Pampaneira Festivals and Fairs

1. The Craft, Agricultural and Tourism Fair of La Alpujarra: it is celebrated around October 12, and attracts many people from the region.

2. Mauraca Festival: this festival takes place around All Saints Day in November. It is celebrated by roasting chestnuts around the fire and is considered one of the oldest festivals in this area.

3. The Patron Saint Festivities of Pampaneira take place on May 3, Day of the Cross, widely celebrated throughout the Granada province.

Abuela Ili - Artisan Chocolate

We recommend that you visit the famous Abuela Ili, a family business that makes artisan chocolate with local products.

When you enter the place, you are handed a small bag containing chocolate samples to taste. They will surprise you!

Nearby you will also find several tapas bars, a great way to sample the local cuisine.

Mapof the Sights to See in Pampaneira

Where to Eat in Pampaneira - Quality Restaurants and Bars

Here are our picks of the 3 restaurants in Pampaneira that we think you might like.

They have a terrace with beautiful views, offer homemade food, good value value for money and attentive waiters.

El Castaño Pizzeria Restaurant

It is located in the upper part of the village, a small but cozy place, with a rustic-style interior room and outdoor terraces with views of the village and the National Park.

It is a lovely place where they serve homemade food, wood-fired meat dishes, and authentic oven-baked pizza.

The garnish with vegetables and potatoes is made in the traditional way. Homemade croquettes, grilled steak, and lasagna are very good.

Exceptional goat cheese salad, especially when paired with the balsamic vinaigrette. They also offer rich artisan desserts.

Standouts include a dish prepared with wild boar in a traditionally made sauce, Iberian pork with vegetables, and a salad with tomato and goat cheese.

Why did we choose this restaurant?

Opening Hours and Contact Information

: open from 11:30 to 16:30 and from 20:00 to 00:00. Closed on Thursdays.

: Address: Pizzeria El Castaño Restaurant, La peseta, 18411 Pampaneira. Telephone: 958 763 428.

Casa de la Abuela

Lovely spot, located in a small square. The upper floor has a cosy rustic decoration.

The portions are abundant, so it's better to share. They use quality garden vegetables, and the prices are very reasonable. They also serve very cold draft beer.

Recommended: migas, sirloin, grilled meats in sauce, croquettes, plato alpujareño (typical dish from Alpujarra), and garden vegetables with authentic flavor.

Why did we choose this restaurant?

Opening Hours and Contact Information

: open every day from 11:00 to 00:00.

: Address: Casa de la Abuela, Calle Real, 10, 18411 Pampaneira. Telephone: 673 636 394.

Bodega Asador El Lagar

A picturesque place in the heart of Pampaneira on a very charming street.

Homemade food with the natural flavor of its products, offering authentic cuisine from Alpujarra.

The dishes are of good quality and very generous in portion size.

Recommended dishes: the grilled meat, the migas, the grandmother's croquettes, the grilled steak, the Iberian secret and the alpujarreño dish.

Why did we choose this restaurant?

Opening Hours and Contact Information

: open every day from 11:00 to 18:00 and from 20:00 to 00:00.

: Bodega Asador El Lagar, Calle el Silencio s/n, Pampaneira.

Where to Park in Pampaneira - Public Parking

It is advisable to park your car in one of the public lots at the town's entrance and exit, although sometimes they can be full and finding parking might be challenging.

There are three main public parking areas, and all of them are free of charge.

1. Car Parking I

This parking area is situated to the right of the bus parking lot, separated by a concrete barrier.

The entrance is located between Bankia and the Desakos craft store. There is a parking sign.

Apart from providing parking space, it offers you the opportunity to enjoy one of the finest views of the Barranco de Poqueira. It's a beautiful viewpoint.

2. Car Parking II

A spacious car park is located next to the main road A-4132 of the Alpujarra, just after you pass the town.

It's a bit farther out than the others, but it's a good option when the other parking lots are full.

Parking can be challenging in the area, especially on weekends and holidays. For this reason, many people resort to parking on the side of the road, which is both prohibited and dangerous.

3. Bus Parking

It is located right at the entrance to the town on Jose Antonio street. The entrance is very wide, making it easy to enter and exit.

You will see the sign at the entrance to the town, just before Bankia, Calle Jose Antonio 14.

How to get to Pampaneira?

How to Get to Pampaneira by Car

On the A-44 or the Sierra Nevada-Costa Tropical highway, take exit 164, for the A-348 road towards Lanjaron, and continue on the A-4132.

Pampaneira is the first town you'll come across in the Barranco de Poqueira when heading up the A-4132, after passing Soportújar.

How to Get to Pampaneira by Bus

Between Granada and Pampaneira there are three daily buses operated by Alsa, which also connect these towns with Bubión and Capileira, Lanjarón and Pitres.

They are the same buses that go to Trevélez and other towns further east of La Alpujarra. The departure is from the Granada Bus Station.

The average travel time between Granada and Pampaneira by car is 1 hour and 20 minutes, while by bus, it is it is 2 hours and 5 minutes.

The buses make stops in Pampaneira and other towns, with the final stop being Trevélez. They also have stops in Granada, Lecrín Valley, and the villages of the Alpujarra.

Other Villages of the Alpujarra

Here you can find information about other villages and towns of the Alpujarra: Soportújar, Bubion, Capileira, Lanjarón, La Taha and Pitres, Trevélez.

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