Sendero Sulayr (GR 240)

Route overview

The Sendero Sulayr, waymarked as the GR 240, forms a roughly circular route around the perimeter of the Sierra Nevada National Park in Andalusia, home to Mulhacén, the highest peak in mainland Spain. The name Sulayr derives from the historic Arabic name for the range. The trail is divided into official stages linking mountain villages and refuges around the range, passing through high-altitude terrain, traditional Alpujarras villages on the southern flank, and drier steppe-like landscapes to the north. It showcases the range's ecological diversity, from snow-capped peaks to near-desert foothills. Most hikers complete it in stages over two to three weeks, though many visitors walk selected sections, particularly through the picturesque Alpujarras villages.

Trail facts

Country

Spain

Region

Sierra Nevada, Andalusia

Distance

c. 300 km

Typical duration

16–19 days

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation gain

c. 18,000 m cumulative

Best season

June–October

Trail type

Multi-day loop

Safety context

High-altitude sections above 3,000 metres are exposed to strong sun, sudden storms and temperature swings. Water sources can be scarce on the drier northern stages.

Summer heat at lower elevations and intense UV exposure at altitude are both significant; sun protection and hydration planning are essential.

Highlights

Mulhacén, mainland Spain's highest peak Alpujarras traditional white villages High-altitude Sierra Nevada plateau Diverse ecosystems from alpine to semi-arid

Why find a buddy

Multi-week high-altitude circuits are safer and more enjoyable shared with a partner, especially on remote northern stages with fewer services.

Primary source

Open the primary route source.

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