Sierra Nevada’s Most Exclusive Retreat, El Lodge Ski & Spa, Introduces New Family, Culinary And Cultural Experiences
This winter season, Spain’s most southerly resort, El Lodge Ski & Spa, is offering two new guest experience packages to cater to adventurous families and foodie fanatics eager to delve into the heart of the Sierra Nevada. Boasting the only ski-in/ski-out facilities in the region, an extensive culinary offering, indulgent spa treatments, a dedicated children’s playroom and enriching outdoor activities right on its doorstep, this boutique hideaway is an ideal spot for a last-minute winter escape.
Fun-filled family time – new for the 2019/20 season
Throughout the season, El Lodge provides a hassle-free, family-friendly winter break accessible via a short 40-minute car transfer from nearby Granada. The hotel’s chalet-style set-up and inter-connecting family rooms ensure ample space and comfort whilst the on-site ski centre means ski rental, lessons and lift passes can all be arranged directly from the hotel. As parents perfect their technique with the hotel’s expert team of instructors, kids are led to nearby Dream Land Alpine Garden, featuring mechanic carpets perfect for beginners, or down the Pista del Mar, where those with a bit more experience can weave in-between colourful marine props. Beyond the slopes, families can swap skis for hiking boots at Los Cahorros gorge, comprising mystical limestone cliffs, hanging bridges and hidden caves. After an afternoon’s exploration, visits will culminate with a well-deserved stop for local tapas in off-the-beaten-track spots accompanied by fables of the region recounted by local guides. Further activities available this season include horse riding at the nearby range, children’s night-time skiing and supervised movie sessions at the kids club leaving parents free to enjoy the quietude of a couple’s dinner at The Grill. Round-the-clock babysitting can also be arranged leaving parents free to enjoy one of El Lodge’s iconic spa treatments such as the calming après-ski facial; perfect after a day on the slopes. Thanks to its high elevation, the Sierra Nevada enjoys a particularly long season running right until the end of April meaning families can maximize on both February half term and Easter holiday breaks.
Hitting the sweet spot – new for the 2019/20 season
Forever at the forefront of culinary innovation, El Lodge’s signature ski-in/ski-out restaurant, The Sun Deck, provides a refreshing contrast to more traditional on-piste menus thanks to its varied offering comprising traditional tapas and plentiful light lunch options such as fresh salads, soups and heartier classics like burgers or pizza – the perfect refuel after a morning on the slopes. This season, El Lodge will now be taking guests beyond their restaurants thanks to newly introduced foodie activities. Experiences include a bakery masterclass with expert-baker, Margarita Nuñez, founder of local bakery, Flor de Vainilla known for creating delicious Alhambra-inspired butter cookies and cakes. Guests can learn techniques and trial creations at her bakery in the heart of Granada before joining El Lodge’s resident Granada expert, Luisa Corral, on the newly launched tapas tour through the city’s gypsy neighbourhood of Sacromonte. In true Granada style, evenings will end in the atmospheric, dimly-lit caves for a passionate flamenco performance where the dance is believed to have originated.
El Lodge Ski & Spa is a boutique hotel and Member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World ™ (SLH), located in the Sierra Nevada at 2,100 metres above sea level. El Lodge offers all the facilities of a boutique alpine hotel, with 12 suites and nine rooms; the only outdoor heated pool in the region, a Kids Club and a variety of dining options. Built with Finnish timber and with interiors by Andrew Martin, El Lodge is designed like a private chalet and can be reserved by room, by night, or in its entirety for private parties.
