Guejar Sierra

Last weekend we had planned (our version of "to plan" is to talk about it and google some stuff, then wait until the last minute) to go to Granada for a few days of snow and tapas. Combine procrastination with a car in desperate need of new brakes that were still in transit across the ocean and it looked like our long weekend was a total loss. 

Until our amazing and generous friends (Ross and his wife, Pia, who also taught me how to make tortilla, there is no end to her awesomeness) lent us their second car. On top of that, their rental apartment outside of Granada was upgraded from 1 bedroom to 2, so they invited us to join them. Weekend saved!

On Saturday morning we packed up our their car and drove several hours to the countryside outside of Granada. The apartment was located in quaint Guejar Sierra, a small pueblo blanco perched in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Sidenote: Guejar is pronounced "way-har" or some close approximation, like guapa is "wapa". 

"Cradle of the Genil River and heart of Sierra Nevada"

Water from the mountains flows to fountains still used by the public for drinking.

Clever (almost) solution for the steep streets.

The village was first settled in the 700s by the Moors. Many of the houses look sufficiently ancient and their doors were tiny, too small for even me! For the record: 5 foot 3. That's my official answer. 

 This scooter was out front of what looked like a great little tea room. Despite what the sign may claim, they were in fact, closed. No worries, we found other tasty places to eat.

On Sunday we hiked some of the trails through the woods and by the river. Only a few hours away from El Puerto de Santa Maria, but so different!

The pups came with us, and it was a terrier party along with Pia and Ross's dog, Rosa, a bodeguero like Cora.

A shepherd (technically goatherd?) and his flock. I love that shepherds can be seen everywhere in España. Since I'm normally speeding by in the car, this was one of the first times I've been able to take photographs up-close. 

We found our new Spanish casa. It's a bit of a "handyman's delight" but I think it has potential.

Most of our weekend was spent exploring the town, eating , relaxing, drinking wine with friends, and enjoying the views from the terrace. It was wonderful!

Did you get into anything over the long weekend? Muchisimas gracias to Pia and Ross for sharing their weekend with us!