Picturesque, tranquil, quintessentially Spanish – the Alpujarras stretches languorously over Granada and Almeria provinces. 

Melting snow from the mountains supplies a constant trickle of water to its pastures, creating a canvas of olive, lime, avocado and forest greens. The origin of the name is debatable, but the most persuasive argument is that it derives from the Arabic phrase al-basharāt, which means ‘sierra of pastures’.

It makes sense, given it lies within the Sierra Nevada and is freckled with fields of grapes and citrus fruits. And with its Andalusian location, an Arab-centric name wouldn’t be a far stretch. The Alpujarras owes its unique mini ecology to its teetering high-altitude topography. Snow-powdered peaks looming above arid foothills make its landscapes all the more striking.

Home to some of the most vertiginous villages in the whole of Spain, these 50-odd mountain eyries became Spanish Muslim strongholds in the 15th century. Cut off from nearby Granada, they were refuges for Moors fleeing from the Castilians.

You can see evidence of their presence in the stone, clay-topped houses and eighth-century monuments. You can also enjoy some mesmerising natural scenery and wildlife. The area is home to the athletic cabra Hispanica, a mountain goat famous for sprinting up the mountain at tremendous speeds, as well as a variety of birds – among them the bizarre hoopoe with its feathered crown. In springtime, you’ll also be amongst more than 100 species of butterfly – be sure to bring a camera.

Trevelez 

Mainland Spain’s second highest village (after Valdelinares), perched a dizzying 1,476 metres above sea level, is renowned for its jamon serrano. The dry climate of this high altitude zone creates ideal storing conditions. And with ham hocks hanging from the ceilings of numerous bars around town, you won’t have to look far for a taste of it. The centre of the village is separated into three areas – higher, middle and lower quarters – with a river running through it. The mighty Mulhacen and Alcazaba, two of Spain’s highest mountains, are a few hours’ walk away in this popular hikers’ destination.

Albondon 

Stunning natural rural scenery combines with fascinating history in Albondon,a tiny village of just over 900 inhabitants 20km from the coast. Its narrow streets are little changed since Arab settlers made this stronghold their home, giving you a unique insight into what life must have been like in those turbulent times. Visit during Las Fiestas de San Luis to see a rec- reation of the battle between Moors and the Christians, and visit the monolith dedicated to former resident and healer Ines Rodrigues.

Lanjaron 

Its famous mineral water is bottled and sold for nationwide consumption and its healing natural spas are said to be detox heaven. Legendary Lanjaron is a place to relax and revitalise, and you can do that at its famous town centre balneario. Known as the ‘Fountain of Health’, its five natural springs are said to aid digestion, rheumatism, respiratory problems and, unsurprisingly, stress. Fresh air, a snow-capped mountain backdrop and awesome views from the ruined Moorish castle are other reasons to linver in Lanjaron.

Torvizcón 

With a Mudejar-style church characteristic of the villages in the area at its epicentre, Valor is a typical whitewashed village with gorgeous views over the Guadalfeo river. The church dates back some 500 years and houses a colourful 18th-century statue. Also worth visiting is the Museo de Esparto Agustín Góngora, with its life-sized human and animal sculptures. Despite its small size, the town has various festivals taking place throughout the year such as Fiesta del Virgen del Rosario and Fiesta del Marcos, all adding to its charisma.

Mairena 

This village in Nevada is known as the Balcony of the Alpujarra for its stunning views over the Valle de Ugíjar and Almeria. Its 17th century Crito de la Luz parish church, lording it over the rooftops, is an impressive sight, while Piedra de los Tiempos rock which residents believe brings good luck to the harvest, is equally iconic. In January, the town comes alive for the fiesta of San Sebastian and San Antonio Abad with concerts, street theatre and fireworks.