4.5
(68)
355
hikers
43
hikes
Hiking around Embalse del Cubillas offers diverse terrain situated north of Granada, nestled between Sierra Elvira, the Colomera mountains, and Sierra Arana. The landscape features pine forests, holm oaks, and cultivated areas including olive groves and poplar groves. Hikers can expect panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the reservoir itself, with varied elevation changes across the region's hills.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6.67km
01:56
180m
180m
An easy 4.1-mile hike in Sierra Elvira, the Camino de Caparacena offers olive groves, river crossings, and views of rolling hills.

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8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
3.94km
01:02
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
3.86km
01:01
30m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A very cool sunset, a place to walk and ride a bike with the family
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This recreational area has tables and barbecues. It slightly detracts from the power lines that are right above it.
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Los Pinos de la Moleona recreational area connects several trails through the Sierra Elvira. Here we can rest before continuing with this route or returning to Caparacena or Atarfe. It has multiple benches and picnic tables, also with ample parking, if you want to get here by car and start your adventure from this point.
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A district of the municipality of Atarfe, located on the slopes of the Sierra Elvira. Good starting point for hiking through this beautiful mountain range. In fact, a local trail SL-A 305 begins in the Plaza de Iglesia that takes us directly to Collado de los Pinos, where we can rest before returning along the same path or continuing with the route to the peaks.
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At this point you can access the reservoir by bicycle to take a breather by the water and enjoy the natural environment and beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada in the background.
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Cylindrical-shaped building located at the top of Collado de los Pinos, in Sierra Elvira. The tower, 9.50 meters high, was built to monitor a large area of the Nasrid kingdom.
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Large esplanade where you can take a breather and enjoy the fantastic views of the swamp. It is perfectly accessible by bicycle.
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In a deep valley between Sierra Elvira, the mountains of Colomera and Sierra Arana, the reservoir was built in 1956. Its purpose is to supply the surrounding towns and irrigate the fields with water from the Cubillas River. From this same point you can see impressive views of the Sierra Nevada.
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There are at least 3 easy hiking trails specifically highlighted around Embalse del Cubillas. In total, the region offers over 30 hiking routes catering to various difficulty levels.
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Embalse del Cubillas, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the reservoir, the diverse vegetation including pine forests and olive groves, and the peaceful atmosphere.
Spring is particularly beautiful, as the southern shores of the lake are adorned with poppies. Autumn also offers pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage. While hiking is possible year-round, summer can be very hot, so early mornings or late afternoons are recommended during those months.
Yes, several easy circular routes are available. For instance, the Hermitage viewpoint – Atalaya de Albolote loop from Plaza de la Reina is an easy 6.7 km circular trail offering great views. Another option is the Cerro de las Caleras loop from Peligros, which is 7.3 km and leads through the surrounding hills and reservoir area.
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. Routes like the Caparacena Trail (SL-A 305), which is 6.7 km and winds through olive groves with river crossings, offer an enjoyable experience for children. The presence of picnic areas and opportunities for birdwatching also add to the family-friendly appeal.
Generally, dogs are welcome on trails around Embalse del Cubillas, but it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near cultivated fields. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural environment for everyone.
Yes, on the north/east side, within Parque de Cubillas, there is a scenic waterfall that plunges into the reservoir. While not directly on every easy trail, it is visible from the waterside and can be a pleasant point of interest during your hike.
The easy hikes showcase diverse landscapes including pine forests, holm oaks, and Mediterranean vegetation. You'll also pass through cultivated fields, olive groves, and poplar groves. The reservoir itself is an important ecological spot, so keep an eye out for various bird species like the Great Cormorant, Mallard, and Hoopoe.
Yes, there are large picnic areas along the shore, particularly on the wooded northern bank, perfect for a break. Additionally, you can find restaurants overlooking the lake, such as one below the Mirador de la Ermita, offering options for a meal after your hike.
Embalse del Cubillas is a hub for various water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, jet skiing, and water skiing. The University of Granada also has a nautical campus offering activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Swimming is permitted, and the water quality is certified as 'very good'.
While direct public transport to every trailhead might be limited, the Embalse del Cubillas area is easily accessible from Granada. It's recommended to check local bus schedules for routes connecting to nearby towns like Albolote or Peligros, from which some trailheads might be reachable, or consider driving.
Yes, the area has historical significance with Roman settlements and Civil War trenches, though these might require specific knowledge to locate. For stunning views, the Hermitage viewpoint – Atalaya de Albolote loop offers incredible vistas from the Mirador de la Ermita, providing peaceful views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape.


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