At a glance
- The A-395 road climbs from Granada to Pradollano, about 31-32 km of mountain road.
- When there is snow, the DGT can require snow chains or winter tyres and regulate access, especially at weekends and on holidays during the season.
- Check the road conditions, the snow report and the webcams before you set off.
- Bring chains you have already tried on your car: fitting them for the first time on the roadside in the snow is what delays people the most.
In this article
Driving up to Sierra Nevada in winter is easy if you arrive prepared. The A-395 road links Granada with Pradollano, and on snowy days traffic conditions can change by the hour. This guide gathers the essentials so you can decide in time and avoid surprises on the way up.
When snow chains are required
Snow chains are not compulsory all year round: they are required only occasionally, when there is snow or ice on the road, and the road signs and traffic officers will tell you. Spain’s traffic authority (the DGT, Dirección General de Tráfico) publishes a resolution on special traffic measures every season that regulates, among other things, the access roads to ski resorts. In the 2025-26 season, that resolution regulated access to Sierra Nevada at weekends, on holidays and on non-school days until 5 April.
Before you leave, check the rules in force
A new resolution is published every season. Check the restrictions for your date on the DGT website and, on snowy stretches, always follow the signs and the instructions of the officers.
How to check the road conditions
Conditions change with snowfall, wind and the number of visitors, so it is best to check on the same day and again just before you drive up. This table sums up what each situation means and what to do:
| Situation | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| SituationRoad clear | What it meansNo snow or ice on the road. | What to doDrive up as usual and keep the chains in the boot in case the weather changes. |
| SituationSnow or chains warning | What it meansThe signs indicate that winter equipment is needed. | What to doFit the chains in a safe place, before the snowy stretch. |
| SituationTraffic regulation or road closure | What it meansThe ascent is restricted for safety or because of heavy traffic. | What to doFollow the instructions, do not stop on the carriageway and consider postponing the trip for a few hours. |
To decide whether it is worth going up that day, combine the traffic information with the Sierra Nevada snow report and see how the resort looks live on the webcams.
What to carry in the car
| Essential | Highly recommended |
|---|---|
| EssentialSnow chains that fit your tyres, already tried out | Highly recommendedGloves and warm clothes within reach, not in the boot |
| EssentialA fuel tank with some margin | Highly recommendedA torch or head torch and a phone charger |
| EssentialVehicle and insurance documents | Highly recommendedWater and some food in case of delays |
Tip
Practise fitting the chains at home, on dry ground. On the road, in the cold and with traffic behind you, any doubt turns into a delay.
What to do if chains are required
- Stop in a safe place Look for a lay-by or a wide area, away from bends and without blocking the way.
- Fit the chains on the drive wheels Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and check they are properly tightened.
- Drive smoothly Avoid sudden braking and hard acceleration, and keep your distance from the vehicle in front.
- Take them off when the snow ends Driving with chains on clean asphalt damages them and is uncomfortable.
Gallery: the mountain in winter
Tap an image to see it larger.
Frequently asked questions
Are snow chains always compulsory in Sierra Nevada?
No. They are required when there is snow or ice on the road, as indicated by the road signs. On other days you can drive up without them, although it is wise to carry them.
Where can I check the road before driving up?
On the DGT website for traffic, and on our snow report and webcams to see how the resort looks right now.
Where do I park when I arrive in Pradollano?
You will find all the parking information on our parking page.
What if I don’t want to drive in the snow?
In our how to get there guide you will find all the ways to reach Sierra Nevada from Granada and other cities.
Get ready for your day in the snow
With the journey sorted, all that is left is choosing your pass. Book at sierranevadagranada.com and enjoy perks on rental, restaurants and shops in the resort.
Sources and review
- Spain’s traffic authority (DGT): Resolution on special traffic measures 2026, annex VIII (PDF, in Spanish).
- Last review of this article: October 2026. Road conditions change every day.
