Description
A literary walk on the left bank of the Darro from Plaza Nueva to Avellano Fountain. The official route is 1.5 km one way; allow time for the return and for stopping to take in the landscape.
Avellano Fountain is a literary, scenic walk that begins directly at Plaza Nueva. Granada City Council’s official listing gives a one-way distance of 1,500 metres along the left bank of the Darro. This version therefore does not present it as an eight-kilometre hike: allow about 90 minutes to walk there, stop by the fountain and return at an unhurried pace. The place is associated with Ángel Ganivet and the Cofradía del Avellano, who held gatherings there in 1897. If you want a hiking extension, plan it as a different route—to Llano de la Perdiz or Silla del Moro—with its own track, gradient and preparation.
- Duration
- 1h 30min
- Distance
- 3.0km
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Best time to visit
- Morning
The itinerary
Paseo de los Tristes
The first Darro-side stretch links the centre to the walk toward Sacromonte. Start at Plaza Nueva and follow the river’s left bank without treating this as a mountain hike.
Espinosa Bridge
The route combines riverbank, caves and views toward Sacromonte Abbey. Stay on the signed path and return the same way unless you have a specific plan to continue toward Llano de la Perdiz.
Avellano Fountain
Avellano Fountain is the route’s destination. Granada City Council links the site to Ángel Ganivet and the Cofradía del Avellano, who held gatherings here in 1897.
Local tips
Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes with grip. You do not need hiking kit for the out-and-back walk, but avoid smooth soles when the ground is wet.
Recommended season
Spring or fall. The Darro's water level is most spectacular in March and April.
Route information
Starting point
Plaza Nueva. From here, join the Darro’s left bank in the direction of Sacromonte.
Ending point
Avellano Fountain. Return to Plaza Nueva along the same route; the official listing measures the outward distance from there.
How to get there
The starting point is in the center, accessible on foot from anywhere. If coming by car, park at Plaza Nueva. There is no direct public transport to the end of the route: return is on foot or by taxi from the Albaicín.
Estimated budget
Free. You only need water and snacks. If you take a taxi back from the end, add €8–10.
Who is it for
Ideal for urban hikers, literature lovers (it is a Lorca-themed route), and those seeking nature without leaving the city. Not suitable for small children or people with mobility difficulties due to stair sections and loose stones.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible. There are sections with stone stairs, narrow paths, and slope. The first 2 km (Paseo de los Tristes) are flat and accessible.
Best time to visit
Spring (March–May) is the best time: the Darro has water flow, the forest is green, and the temperature is ideal. Autumn is also good. Avoid July and August because of the heat.
WHAT TO BRING
- Hiking shoes
- Plenty of water
- Energy snacks
- Sun protection
- Optional trekking poles for the return
