Climb Mulhacen, the highest mountain in mainland Spain

1 day Itinerary

Normally from May to November inclusive but snow conditions may dictate when the trek turns into a more serious mountaineering challenge.

To and from the Hoya de Portillo. About 8-9 hours of walking is involved (1300m ascent), ascending by the long south ridge and descending via the west flank.

In our opinion this does not reflect the best the mountain has to offer. The two day ascent gives you chance to enjoy the mountain and see more dramatic views.

2 day Itinerary

• Day1 - am. Meet at Lanjaron or the trailhead at Capileira (1600m).
• Ascend to Refugio Poqueira (2500m) 4 hours via the Barranco de Poqueira (900m ascent). Stay the night at the hut. The Poqueira Hut is a guarded refuge and has beds, blankets, meals and wine. A great place to spend the night before ascending the peak.
• Day 2 - via the Rio Mulhacen to the Col del Ciervo and a superb view over the north face of Mulhacen. West flank to the summit. Return via south ridge to refugio. Continue back to waiting transport. 1000m ascent and 4 hours from hut to summit. Return to transport 5hrs.

The Refugio Poqueira is a superb guarded hut sleeping 84 situated on the east back of the Rio Mulhacen on a shelf at 2500m above the Poquiera gorge. It is more of a hostel providing food and drink and beds and blankets in dormitory accommodation. More details about the refugio

When- normally from beginning of December until end April inclusive

• We use the same itinerary (as summer) but snow conditions may mean differing access points for the Refugio Poqueira.
• We provide all technical requirements such as ice axe, crampons and sometimes even snowshoes.
• Basic instruction in their use will be given if necessary.
• We shall advise you beforehand of the clothing and equipment requirements

We are the first and only company to offer the unique experience of a night ascent of the peak, arriving at the summit as dawn breaks. A truly wonderful experience that can be enjoyed year round, weather permitting. See http://www.sierra-nevada-news.com/2010/04/brilliant-sunrise-following-a-night-ascent-of-mulhacen/ for more details.

Mulhacen at 3482m is a magnificent ski touring peak in good snow conditions. From December to May inclusive we can offer ski descents of the peak. But, what descents are available and which are the best for backcountry skiing enthusiasts?

As can be seen from our trail map on the right, there are options for all grades of skier. Easier ways for the beginner or for marginal snow conditions, and tougher runs for the more experienced on good days. Most 2 day ski tours will overnight either at the Refugio de Poqueira (guarded), or the Caldera refugio (unguarded), or even wild camp at Siete Lagunas.

Descents are the interesting part of any ski tour. Will it be a headlong, exhilarating dash down the mountainside on perfect snow or will we be getting exasperated with the changing crud, ice, breakable crust and slush? Will we be back at the hut in 20 minutes or in 90? Mulhacen has the ability to deliver all of these and more.

Read detailed descriptions about the Backcountry Skiing Descents from Mulhacen. Note. It goes without saying that on every ski tour axe, crampons and helmet should be carried and used if necessary! If you are planning your own trip to the Sierras then please contact us at Spanish Highs Mountain Guides. We can advise on current mountain and snow conditions, access points, route choice and even provide gear and equipment hire.

Weather by meteoexploration

Iberia Peninsula weather forecast for all mountain areas of Spain
Mulhacen weather forecast - Great resource showing very detailed forecasts. Very useful.

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