Once settled by the Moors the almond tree and fig covered region still reflects their culture heavily. At various heights in the mountains -some as high as 4000ft, overlooking the amazing gorges - are small villages of varying sizes in typical Berber style with whitewashed walls and flat roofs.

Many of the houses add to the rich fragrances of the local sweet chestnuts, olives and mulberries with hanging flowers and and crops of heathers hanging from the balconies. Distictive areas of terracing are still visible as are the famous water courses or acequias that are still in use today. Other distinctive features of these villages are the wash houses, although not in use today.

Larger villages have more modern amenities such as small hotels, a shop a baker and bars. Drinks are cheap and the food is generally of a high standard. It is well worth trying some of the local soups and casseroles. The region is also famous for its dried hams and these can be found hanging in most bars and shops.

Although it can get quite hot, which might be an extra burden for the inexperienced walker, anyone who is fairly fit and walks regularly can cope comfortably although obviously, the fitter you are, the more enjoyable the experience will be!

If walking gets too much for you then there are local bus services that run between the villages of the region. The bus can even get you to Grenada - a must for first time visitors. Mid summer can be incredibly hot, so the best time to travel to the region is Spring or Autumn. In September and October there are chances to pick the mulberries and figs from the side of the footpaths.

The area has plenty of walks so, to an extent, you can make the experience as challenging or as easy as you like.There are many steep climbs and long descents but there are also plenty of walks along the gorges and valleys which have equally rewarding and spectacular vistas with their lush surroundings and views of the snow capped peaks. For those feeling particularly energetic however, the area is also home to the two highest peaks on the Spanish mainland - Valela and Muchacen.

The nearest airport to the region is Malaga in the Costa del Sol - the Alpujarras are approximately 100 miles inland so getting there under your own steam is quit easy. Alternatively there are small operators that arrange walking holidays (Walks World Wide from around £500 for example or Andalucian Adventures).

If you have not done any mountain walking abroad before, then this is a wonderful place to make a start.