Bird Watching
Keen birdwatcher George McKinney has had a house in the Alpujarra for a number of years and he has generously given this short description of what you can see (a more complete list is available for guests).

‘In the summer Rollers, Bee Eaters, Hoopoes and Black-eared Wheatears enjoy this region’s valleys and rocky outcrops. Booted and Short-toed Eagles join the resident Bonellis and Golden Eagles and a sighting of the Spanish Imperial is always a possibility. Night sounds include those of the Scops and Eagle Owl.
Other times of the year are excellent for resident Rock and Cirl Buntings, Black Wheatears, Serin and Southern Great Grey Shrike. Ring Ousels, Hen Harriers and flocks of migrant Honey Buzzards can add to this already-rich diversity.
Further up in the Sierra you may see the Citril Finch, Alpine Accentor, Rock Thrush and Crag Martins swooping and diving. On taking a day trip to the coast you can see yet more such as Marbled Duck, Purple Galinule and, along the rocky coast, the Trumpeter Finch.’

Horse Riding
Can be arranged but some riding experience is required.

Swimming
There’s a large open-air pool in Juviles, 10 minutes away by car, open from the end of June to September.

Wine Tasting
Local bodegas, located on the Contraviesa range, are open to visitors where you can sample and buy some very good wines. See, for example, www.barrancooscuro.com

Granada
World famous for the spectacular Moorish palace of the Alhambra and the old quarter of the Albaicín, as well as the gypsy quarter of Sacromonte for flamenco, is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes away by car.

Beaches
The nearest beaches on the Costa del Sol are 1 hour and 30 minutes away.