Altiplano De Granada

Stretching across the arid high plains of northern Granada province, the Altiplano De Granada is a land of stark beauty, deep history, and surprising cultural richness. This vast, sun-baked plateau, dotted with whitewashed villages, ancient cave dwellings, and dramatic badlands, offers a glimpse into a Spain that feels far removed from the coastal crowds. Here, you can explore the mysterious Megalithic Park of Gorafe, wander through the cave houses of Guadix, and savor the region's hearty cuisine, all while enjoying the solitude of wide-open landscapes. For international travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, the Altiplano rewards those who take the time to explore its dusty roads and timeless villages.

Highlights & What to See

• Megalithic Park of Gorafe: Discover one of Europe's most important megalithic sites, with over 240 dolmens scattered across a dramatic badlands landscape. The sheer concentration of these ancient burial chambers is awe-inspiring.
• Guadix Cave Dwellings: Wander through the Barrio de las Cuevas, where hundreds of whitewashed cave houses are carved into the hillsides. Visit the Cave Interpretation Centre to understand this unique way of life, still lived by many locals.
• Baza: Explore this historic town, once an important Islamic settlement. Don't miss the Baza Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Dama de Baza (Lady of Baza) Iberian statue, and the Alcazaba fortress ruins.
• Gorafe Desert: Hike or drive through the striking badlands of the Gorafe Desert, a lunar-like landscape of ravines and colored clay formations that change hue with the light.
• Purullena Pottery: Visit this village known for its traditional pottery workshops, where you can watch artisans at work and buy handmade ceramics direct from the source.
• Mirador de la Virgen de la Cabeza: For panoramic views over the Altiplano's vast plains and distant Sierra Nevada peaks, head to this viewpoint near Guadix.

Suggested Time to Spend

To experience the Altiplano's highlights without rushing, plan for at least two full days. This allows time to explore the Megalithic Park and Gorafe Desert on one day, and the cave dwellings of Guadix and the town of Baza on another. If you have a third day, you can delve deeper into the region's lesser-known villages or enjoy a longer hike. The area is best explored by car, as public transport is limited, and the distances between sites can be deceiving on the vast plateau.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sierra Nevada National Park: Just a couple of hours south, this park offers Europe's southernmost ski resort and excellent hiking in the highest peaks of mainland Spain.
• Granada City: The magnificent Alhambra and the vibrant Albaicín district are a 90-minute drive west, making a perfect cultural counterpoint to the Altiplano's rural landscapes.
• Tabernas Desert: Spain's only true desert, near Almería, is famous for its spaghetti-western film sets and otherworldly scenery, about a 90-minute drive southeast.
• Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park: This vast natural park, with its deep gorges and dense forests, lies to the north and offers a green contrast to the Altiplano's aridity.
• Úbeda and Baeza: These UNESCO-listed Renaissance towns are about an hour north and boast some of Spain's finest plazas and palaces from the 16th century.

Please check official sources for current details.