Today we present one of the star routes for mountain and hiking lovers: the ascent to the Veleta peak in Sierra Nevada. The Veleta is the second highest peak of Sierra Nevada with 3,398 meters of altitude. It is only surpassed by the Mulhacén, which with its 3,482 meters of height, is the highest point of the Iberian Peninsula.
In the following post we tell you everything you need to know about the ascent to the Veleta and why it is perfect to get started in the high mountain. So now you know, if you like hiking but you are not very used to high mountain trekking, this route is perfect for you. Let’s get started!
Sierra Nevada – the Veleta peak and its 3,482 metres
The Veleta peak, despite not being the highest point of Sierra Nevada, is undoubtedly the star. Probably the fame comes from its proximity to the ski resort of Sierra Nevada or its greater accessibility compared to the Mulhacén.
Although it may seem unbelievable for such a high point, there is a road that goes almost to the top. However, this road is closed to traffic and access is only allowed to buses authorized by the Junta de Andalucía.
Anyway, access on foot is very easy for such a high point! You can drive up to Hoya de la Mora where there is a huge place to park. From there you start the hike to the top,
about 9 kilometers approximately. It usually takes about 3 hours at a normal pace.
When to do the route?
If you are not very used to trekking in snow, it is best to do it in summer. Autumn and winter are of course not suitable seasons, as there could be a storm at any time and we assure you that you wouldn’t want to see yourself in those. If you are a bit of a novice, we don’t recommend spring either, since with the thaw there is more ice than snow, which makes the ascent very difficult and requires specific materials.
How is the ascent route to the Veleta?
The easiest and shortest route is the one that starts from the Hoya de la Mora car park. It is a very easy route for people who are not used to walking in high mountains, as it is not dangerous at all and the slope is very bearable. Another plus point is that it is impossible to get lost, as one never loses sight of the Veleta. So you know, just walk in the direction of the peak.
As we have already pointed out, there is a paved road that goes almost to the top. When you make the ascent on foot, it is not advisable to follow the road, as with the zigzagging ascent you will gain many unnecessary kilometres. The best thing to do is to go straight upwards. As you walk, you will see that there are small straight upward paths formed by the passing of other people.
The first landmark of the ascent is the altar of the Virgen de las Nieves. Afterwards, as you go up, you will see on your right the fork of the ski resort with the Borreguiles area. It is very curious visually to see the station without a drop of snow, you’ll see!
The route is very bearable until you reach the last meters, right at the positions of the peak. From this point the slope becomes already important. If you are not very used to mountain trekking or you have altitude sickness, you can choose to continue on the road until the asphalt disappears and then continue on the dirt road. If, on the other hand, you are used to walking up the mountain, you can climb straight up to the top. Of course, be careful with the face of the corral of the Veleta!
Once at the top you will enjoy incredible views, really. Subsequently the descent is completed in less time, about two hours. Be careful not to twist your foot on the way down!
What preparation do I need to climb the Veleta?
You don’t need a very important physical preparation to climb the Veleta. Virtually anyone can climb.
As for clothing, we recommend that you always carry a jacket or fleece in your backpack, even if it is summer. Keep in mind that even if it’s very hot down below, you’re going to climb up to almost 3,500 meters!
It is also advisable to bring plenty of water and nuts. Ah! and it is perfectly possible to do the route with your dog. We have seen dogs at the top.
The Perseids
100% recommendable to climb the Veleta during the strong days of the Perseids. I assure you that you will never in your life have seen a starry sky like the one you can see from there.
And that’s all friends, cheer up to crown the Veleta!
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