#1 VLOG: My First Ski Lesson+Hiking+Aprés Ski in Sierra Nevada
- Tene Sommer
- Mar 10
- 3 min read
I know people don’t believe me when I say I’ve never skied in my life. But by that I mean mountain ski, as I have skied crosscountry as a child in school, as Estonia’s highest peak is 300 metres. In that same week I actually took also my first ever padel class at NAC, which I really enjoyed!
As for the ski lessons, I got an instructor Jose from Rio Sport as well as some of the gear and all you need then is the ski lift access ticket for half a day (from €40) or full day (around €64). From the top you choose which color mountain slope you will ski. Obviously I was practicing on the kids one, then I did go to the green slope and ski down twice and honestly - it was great and my teacher was also spot on - very patient and calm. Just the energy you need as a beginner.
Did you know that because of being Europe’s Southernmost Ski Resort, Sierra Nevada, has one of the longest ski seasons in Europe, thanks to its altitude and advanced snow-making systems, making skiing possible from November to May. The range includes Mulhacén (3,479m), the highest peak in mainland Spain and the second-highest in Western Europe outside the Alps. And due to its proximity to the Costa del Sol (just 2,5-3 hour drive to Marbella), you can ski in the morning and hit the beach in the afternoon—a unique experience in Europe! The region is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, boasting over 2,100 plant species, many of which are endemic and found nowhere else in the world. And besides skiing, Sierra Nevada is also famous for mountain biking, paragliding, rock climbing, and even summer skiing on glaciers.


The area boasts over 100 hiking routes, ranging from easy walks to challenging high-altitude treks. The variety of landscapes—glacial valleys, alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and even forests—makes it one of Spain's top hiking destinations. To hike where we went with my sister, then once you’re in the main ski resort area, follow signs for Fuente Alta or Zona de Entrenamiento Fuente Alta. Parking: You can park near the Fuente Alta recreational area, which is just above Pradollano, or near the Los Peñones parking area.( And both, to the right and to the left you'll find the spring water collection points.) It’s an outdoor sports circuit located at approximately 2,150 meters above sea level, offering a natural training environment with a mix of trails, hills, and workout stations. This loop extends over approximately 7.2 kilometers (4.5 miles).
We stayed in a lovely cozy Chalet which is just a 5-minute walk from El Lodge. The property is also for sale, contact me for more info and see the home tour here!

Aprés Ski or Aprés Hike at El Lodge
My favorite hotel for aprés ski or hike is definitely El Lodge, a sister hotel of the famed Puente Romano Hotel in Marbella. The lovely sun deck is perfect for lunch and cocktails in the sun whilst enjoying the live DJ and the scenic mountainn views. Alternatively you can enjoy enjoy a drink at Maribel’s terrace or why not stay over and enjoy the spa and the outdoor heated pool? That’s my next plan! Stay tuned and don’t forget to subscribe to my Youtube channel if you would like to see more!

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