Step outside the door of Casa Ana and you’re spoilt for choice with short rambles, scenic circular walks and hikes into the high mountains to suit any reasonable level of fitness.

You can also follow parts of the trans-European GR7 footpath which runs from Andalucia to Greece or the GR142 as it winds through Ferreirola en route from Lanjaron to Almeria province.

Casa Ana’s owner Anne is a keen walker herself and can provide you with advice and ideas, maps and hiking notes as well as tasty picnic lunches.

See also guided walking holidays with writer Chris Stewart

Some circular walks from the door of Casa Ana

A stroll to the village of Atalbeitar

An ancient footpath takes you through woods and meadows to Atalbeitar, and back via the historic threshing ground and a hidden spring in the woods.

45 minutes. Easy

La Taha and the Trevelez Gorge: a panoramic walk

Cross the Trevelez river below Ferreirola, climb the ancient path (built by the Moors) on the other side, then follow the forest track with stunning views of the Taha villages across the valley.

4.5 hours. Medium

Exploring the Taha Villages

Start in Ferreirola and take in Atalbeitar, Capileria, Pitres, Mecina, Fondales – paths and lanes and plenty of village bars along the way.

3 hours (plus stops). Easy

Busquistar and the Hidden Gorge

Follow the GR142 to Busquistar and across the Trevelez river where the gorge narrows dramatically then climb for fabulous views of La Taha. Return by way of the old mill near Ferreirola.

3 hours. Moderate

Along the Trevelez Valley to Fondales and Mecina

Stunning views as you follow the Trevelez Valley to Fondales then an easy walk back through Mecina (and the bar).

45 minutes. Easy

Portugos and the Junta de los Rios Picnic Spot

Climb through the holm oak woods above Portugos to a wonderful mountain stream picnic spot. Ideal for lunch and a siesta before the descent back to Ferreirola.

6 hours plus stops. Moderate

Drive and Walk in the Sierra Nevada mountains from Casa Ana

Here are just a few ideas:

The Seven Lakes (Siete Lagunas)

High above Trevelez, pass through the alpine meadows of La Campinuela to the Seven Lakes. Breathtaking views make it worth the climb.

8/9 hours. Demanding

Ferreiroa – Trevelez: 25 minutes by car

Explore the Sulayr

The Sulayr (“mountain of the sun”) is a 300km footpath that makes a complete circuit of the Sierra Nevada mountains. You can easily drive from Casa Ana to pick up parts of this path.

Walking above Capileira

High above the Poqueira Valley you’ll find excellent hiking country, including the path to the summit of Mulhacen, which at 3,479 metres is the highest mountain in the Iberian Peninsula.

Ferreirola – Capileira: 25 minutes by car