Where is Hoya del Portillo parking lot?
Spain, europe
9.1 km
2,151 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in southern Spain, ready for an adventure in the Sierra Nevada. Your destination? The Hoya del Portillo parking lot, perched at a cool 2,151 meters (that's over 7,000 feet!). This is the highest point you can legally drive to in the whole Sierra Nevada range – a badge of honor for your ride!
Getting there is half the fun. Starting from Capileira, you've got about 9.1 kilometers (just under 6 miles) of twisty, mostly unpaved road ahead. It’s called Puerto Molina. Expect a few initial kilometers of so-so asphalt, but then it's all about the dirt and the views. Don't worry, you can tackle it in pretty much any car, just watch out for the potholes! You'll be climbing, too – gaining 670 meters in elevation, with an average gradient of around 7.3%.
This parking lot isn’t just a place to leave your car. It’s the gateway to some seriously stunning hiking. Beyond this point, it's strictly for hikers and bikers (and the occasional authorized vehicle). The trail, Camino de los Franceses, takes you up to Refugio Poqueira, winding through epic mountain passes.
Word of warning: this spot is popular! Especially during peak season, the parking lot fills up fast, so get there early to snag a space. And keep in mind, nestled high in the mountains like it is, the road is usually closed in winter. Snow can block access well before you even reach the parking area. But trust me, if you catch it at the right time, this drive (and the hike beyond) is an unforgettable experience.
Road Details
- Country
- Spain
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 9.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,151 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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