Paseo de los Nogales, Granada

Walk in Granada

CC BY-SA 3.0 / José Luiz

The Paseo de los Nogales is one of the most peaceful routes near the Alhambra, stretching gently between the main entrance and the Generalife while offering leafy views of orchards, forested slopes, and the legendary towers of the palatial city. Despite its simplicity, it is one of the things to do in Granada if you enjoy quiet corners of the monument away from the busier palace courts. With benches along the way and impressive views of the Alhambra's defensive architecture, it is often visited on walking tours of Granada as a scenic prelude to the Generalife.

Running parallel to the Jardines Bajos, the walkway is surrounded by cypress trees, vines, and dense vegetation that rises and falls along the hillside. As you walk, the Alhambra's towers gradually appear above you on the left, each one marking a chapter in Granada's layered history. The path's calm atmosphere makes it a lovely detour for travellers who want to step briefly outside the crowds and enjoy a restful approach to the gardens.

History and Significance of the Paseo de los Nogales
Things to See and Do in the Paseo de los Nogales
How to Get to the Paseo de los Nogales
Practical Tips on Visiting the Paseo de los Nogales
Where to Stay close to the Paseo de los Nogales
Is the Paseo de los Nogales Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Paseo de los Nogales
Nearby Attractions to Paseo de los Nogales

History and Significance of the Paseo de los Nogales

The Paseo de los Nogales occupies a historic zone between the Alhambra and its summer palace, the Generalife. Although it is primarily known today as a pleasant pedestrian path, archaeological surveys have revealed its deeper significance. During repaving works in 2009, remnants of the Acequia Real—Granada's royal water channel that fed the entire Alhambra complex—were found beneath the walkway. This discovery confirmed that the route once carried essential water infrastructure supporting the palaces and gardens above.

The name “Paseo de los Nogales,” or Promenade of the Walnut Trees, recalls the cultivation that once filled these slopes. While many of the original walnut trees have disappeared, the atmosphere remains shaped by orchards, terraces, and cultivated hillsides that have long formed part of the Generalife's agricultural identity. Even today, walking this path feels like stepping into an earlier, quieter period of the Alhambra's rural world.

Because the walk sits just outside the main visitor route, it has remained less altered than other parts of the site, preserving much of the gentle landscape that travellers admired centuries ago. For visitors seeking a blend of nature, history, and architecture, the Paseo de los Nogales offers a peaceful and informative approach to the Generalife.

Things to See and Do in the Paseo de los Nogales

As you follow the path eastward, the first tower you encounter is the Torre del Cabo de la Carrera, a ruin left damaged since 1812 when retreating Napoleonic forces destroyed it. Further along rises the Torre de las Infantas, associated with the story of the three princesses Zaida, Zoraida, and Zorahaida, daughters of Emir Mohamed IX. The next tower, the Torre de la Cautiva, is linked to Lady Isabel de Solís, who converted to Islam and became a favored figure in the Nasrid court.

Continuing onward, you will see the Torre del Cadí, once associated with the judge of the palace city, followed by the crenelated Torre de los Picos, one of the more distinctive fortifications along the walls. These towers form a dramatic sequence that unfolds gradually as you walk, offering photographic angles and a strong sense of the Alhambra's defensive strength.

The path eventually leads to the Placeta del Moral, where you can view the rise of the Cuesta del Rey Chico below. From here, however, access to the Generalife is not possible, so most visitors retrace their steps. The tranquility, vegetation, and steady stream of architectural landmarks make this route ideal for travellers who enjoy peaceful, linear walks that reveal the Alhambra from alternative vantage points.

How to Get to the Paseo de los Nogales

The Paseo de los Nogales begins opposite the Torre del Cabo de la Carrera, just across the Cuesta del Rey Chico. As you approach from the main Alhambra entrance, you will reach a fork in the path: turning left takes you up the Paseo de los Nogales, while the right leads toward the Paseo de los Cipreses.

The nearest airport is Federico García Lorca Granada-Jaén Airport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Granada on Booking.com.

Granada's main train station connects easily with cities like Madrid, Seville, and Malaga, and provides convenient onward access to the Alhambra. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If arriving by car, note that Alhambra parking can become busy during peak visiting hours. If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Paseo de los Nogales

Suggested tips: Bring water and sun protection, as the path offers limited shade.
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures.
Entrance fee:
Opening hours:
Official website: https://www.alhambra-patronato.es/paseo-de-los-nogales-entre-huertos-y-acequias
How long to spend: Around 20–30 minutes for a leisurely walk.
Accessibility: The path is generally smooth but may include mild inclines; not ideal for wheelchair access.
Facilities: No facilities along the walkway; services are available near the Alhambra entrance.
Photography tip: Capture the towers framed through the tree line on your left.
Guided tours: Some guided Alhambra routes include this walkway, though many visitors explore it independently.
Nearby food options: Cafés and restaurants near the main Alhambra entrance provide refreshments before or after the walk.

Where to Stay close to the Paseo de los Nogales

For convenience and atmosphere, Parador de Granada offers a historic stay within the Alhambra grounds themselves. Just below the Generalife entrance, Áurea Washington Irving provides elegant rooms inspired by Granada’s literary heritage. A more intimate and charming option near the monument is Hotel América, perfect for travellers wanting a peaceful base close to the complex.

Is the Paseo de los Nogales Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially for visitors who enjoy quiet, scenic walks with rich historic context. While not as famous as the palaces or major courtyards, the Paseo de los Nogales offers a refreshing perspective of the Alhambra's towers and gardens, making it a rewarding detour for photographers, walkers, and anyone wishing to experience the site's landscape more intimately.

FAQs for Visiting Paseo de los Nogales

Can you access the Generalife directly from this path?
No, access is not possible; you must return the same way.

Is the walk shaded?
There is only limited shade, so sun protection is recommended.

What can you see along the path?
A series of Alhambra towers, orchards, and lush vegetation.

How long is the walk?
Usually 20–30 minutes at a relaxed pace.

Is the route steep?
Inclines are mild, making it manageable for most visitors.

Nearby Attractions to Paseo de los Nogales

Torre del Cabo de la Carrera: A ruined tower damaged during the Napoleonic retreat in 1812.
Torre de las Infantas: A legendary tower associated with the story of three Nasrid princesses.
Torre de la Cautiva: Named for Lady Isabel de Solís, whose story blends legend and history.
Jardines Bajos: The lower terraces of the Generalife featuring orchards and landscaped greenery.
Paseo de los Cipreses: A neighbouring walkway lined with cypress trees leading toward the palace gardens.

The Paseo de los Nogales appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Granada!

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