Pico del Almirez

Overview

This is probably the most famous hilltop in the Almeria province, and the second highest. It´s situated in the Almerian part of Sierra Nevada. The highest ridge of the Sierra is protected as Parque Nacional, while the lower parts of the mountains are Parque Natural, a lower protection figure. It´s a beautiful, lonely peak with great views over the highest Sierra Nevada to the W, Alpujarra Valley, Sierra de Gádor and Mediterranean Sea to the S and plains of Guadix to the N.

Getting There

For me, the best itinerary is S to N starting at Laujar de Andarax, the capital town of the Almerian Alpujarra. It´s easy to get there by road from Almería city (about 2h) and Almería International Airport (2h 15m.). Laujar and surroundings provide several hostels and campings. Once in Laujar, ask directions to the Nacimiento, the entrance to the highest valley of river Andarax. Once there it´s easy to follow maps directions up, and the peak is easily visible. Refuges on the way up include Monterrey and El Cerecillo. There is a private refuge in La Gabiarra, approx 2000 m. altitude. I have camped on the summit in September, there is a small concrete hut with no ceiline which offers some protection. The N side of the mountain is way steeper. Final destination should be Fiñana, with a train station to Almeria.

Red Tape

No permits required to climb. Camping supposed to be prohibited out of the camping areas (Monterrey) in both Parque Natural and Nacional.

When To Climb

April-September

Camping

Camping is allowed only in Monterrey camping area (approx. 1400m.). El Cerecillo is a public refuge but permission is needed. La Gabiarra is another refuge at higher altitude, it´s owned by a mountain club in Laujar de Andarax.

Mountain Conditions

It´s a mid-distance hike. No rock climbing necessary. Northern side can get tricky, it´s pretty steep and loose rocks and boulders everywhere. The walk down to the train station in Fiñana is pretty long, about 6-7 hours.