While much of Andalucia braces for another summer of 40C-plus temperatures, one mountain village in Granada is expected to remain refreshingly cool.

Capileira, perched high in the Alpujarra region on the southern slopes of Sierra Nevada, is often cited as one of Spain’s coolest places during the summer months.

Thanks to its altitude of around 1,500 metres above sea level, daytime temperatures typically stay below 25C, while nights can fall to around 15C.

That makes it a world away from the scorching conditions regularly experienced elsewhere in Andalucia, where towns in provinces such as Sevilla, Cordoba and Jaen frequently top Spain’s temperature charts.

Capileira sits in the spectacular Barranco de Poqueira alongside the neighbouring villages of Bubion and Pampaneira, beneath the slopes of Veleta, Spain’s fourth-highest mountain.

Much of the municipality falls within Sierra Nevada National Park, helping preserve the area’s dramatic landscapes, fresh mountain air and cooler climate.

The village’s whitewashed houses, narrow streets and traditional architecture have earned it recognition as one of Spain’s most beautiful villages. It has also been designated a Historic-Artistic Site thanks to its well-preserved Moorish heritage.

More than just cooler temperatures

For visitors looking to escape the coastal crowds, Capileira offers far more than comfortable summer weather.

The village is a popular base for hiking, with several walking routes leading through the Poqueira Gorge and into the higher reaches of Sierra Nevada.

Scenic viewpoints around the village offer sweeping views across the mountains and valleys below.

Capileira is also home to the Casa-Museo de Pedro Antonio de Alarcon, dedicated to the Granada-born writer whose famous travel book La Alpujarra helped introduce the region to a wider audience.

A summer alternative

Located around 80km from Granada city, Capileira has become a favourite destination for travellers seeking a different side of Andalucia.

With mountain scenery, traditional architecture, cooler temperatures and easy access to some of southern Spain’s best hiking routes, it offers a welcome escape from the summer heat without leaving the region.

If you’re looking for somewhere to swap crowded beaches and sweltering temperatures for fresh air and mountain views, Capileira could be one of the best places to visit this summer.