There are  innumerable walks and trails to be explored on all sides,  since Mairena sits in the heart of the alpujarra, enclosed by the National Park, on the Southern flank of the massif of the Sierra Nevada.   The celebrated long distance footpath of the GR7 passes through the village and makes for perfect walks to the East and West. In addition the ambitious circumnavigation of the whole range – the Sul Ayr – runs just above and is easily  reached. 

Meanwhile, in just 20 minutes, you can drive to the pass at La Ragua, which at 2000 metres has free parking and provides walks for all abilities. These include a wheelchair-friendly flat meander  through the pine forests,  running trails along the cross-country ski tracks, and of course, brilliant access to the great 2700 metre peaks on either side, which from the car park are thrillingly, temptingly accessible.

Likewise,  there are dozens of smaller tracks to explore through the fertile, irrigated vegas just in front of the village.   These terraces are all privately owned, but linked through an intricate system of footpaths with free access.