With a population of 355 people, Pampaneira is not one of Granada’s larger towns. Despite the town’s small size, tourism still plays a big part of the town’s economy. While it would appear that Pampaniera is not a thriving tourism town, quite the opposite is true. The town is a stunning white village (all the buildings are formed from stone that has been whitewashed.) Most of the citizens are rather wealthy, relying on their talents as skilled artists and craftsmen.

 

Pampaneira is the bottom rung in a staircase of towns (Pampaneira, Bubión, and Capileira) that ascend from the Poqueira Ravine. Winding streets and alleys lace through the town leading walkers past immaculate white houses before leading out of the town’s boundaries and towards the next town. It is an uphill climb to Bubión and Capileira, so you’ll want to be in shape and wearing good hiking shoes if you plan to make the three-town trek. Locals say the walk through all three towns takes a little over two hours.

Dating back to the Roman times, the town name Pampaneira comes from “pampinus” meaning fertile soil. Little is left of the Roman domination of the town, however. When the Moors overtook the area, they built much of the town’s houses and buildings, as is obvious from the architectural styles. The Moors helped turn Pampaneira into a thriving agricultural centre where silk production flourished. When the Christians banished Moors from much of Spain, the town became a known area for artisans. It was even declared a national historical artistic town, winner of the national Town Décor award, and winner of the National Prize of Tourism.

It is essential, if you can handle it, to walk the path that leads to each town above the Poqueira Ravine. If you take it slow and wear comfortable shoes, the stroll brings you through gorgeous scenery. Native fauna can be viewed every step of the

 

While a walking tour of all three towns is highly recommended, some sites within Pampaneira that should not be skipped. Start with a stroll through the winding streets and alleyways that are graced with huge grapevines, pristine buildings, and colourful flowers hanging from window boxes. While you are strolling through Pampaniera, make sure you visit the specialty shops to view and possibly purchase some of the local artists goods.

 

Iglesia Parroquial de la Santa Cruz was constructed in the 16th century. The baroque style church features many Mudejar features including a fabulous ceiling and altarpieces.

 

Not for the fainthearted, December brings the ceremonial slaughtering of the pigs takes place. During this time, pigs are blessed and then slaughtered to provide meat for the upcoming year. The event closes with a grand feast of fresh pork, local produce, Costa wine, and rich desserts.

Every May, the arrival of summer is celebrated with a celebration known as the Burial of the Fox. A paper mache fox is created and filled with fireworks. Foods, dancing, live music, and festivities end with the fox being set on fire.

 

For two days in mid-October, the Craftsmen Fair begins. Local artists and craftsmen converge in the centre of town to sell their handmade products. 

Much of the revenue brought into Pampaniera comes from tourism and sales of the local arts and crafts. A small number of bars and restaurants add to the economy, but not as much as the local handmade goods.

 

In much of the Alpujarra mountainous region, fresh air cured hams are common.  The ham is served thinly sliced as tapas in many establishments and homes.  Pampaneira has a traditional soup that is served year round.  Alpujarra Soup is a creamy almond and garlic soup that is served cold.  Potatoes are commonly sautéed until golden with onions and peppers.  Puchero a la Gitanilla is a gypsy-style stew using fresh meat, local produce, and simmered until extremely tender.  La Migas Camperas is a dish mixing plenty of garlic, bread cubes, and bacon.

For dessert, you can expect Moorish-style pastries.  Deep fried doughnuts dipped in honey, Roscos Finos (wine infused dough deep fried and dipped in cinnamon and sugar, and Torta de Lata (a torte made from semolina, lemon, and eggs that is dusted with sugar) are all common after-meal treats.

Many area restaurants and bars offer live music to patrons. Alfonso is one establishment where live bands perform every week. The restaurant offers exquisite fare, and offers a children’s menu making it perfect for families.  Alfonso is open late for those needing something to do after the sun goes down. A few other restaurants are open until late.

 

Area bars offer tapas and refreshing drinks. There are a few bars to choose from in the area. Drinks in these bars tend to be more expensive than in other areas, mainly because the town is trendier than in neighbouring towns.

Pampaneira is a trendy little town with a strong focus on handmade goods. The scenery is stunning, so bring a camera. Plan to spend a good portion of your day exploring all that Pampaniera has to offer. If you can take it, don’t miss the opportunity to walk the ravine’s paths as you head to the other two towns on the staircase.