At about 214 kilometres in length, the Almerian coast has always been an intriguing destination for tourists. Back in 1928, a German businessman dubbed it the Costa del Sol with the intent and purpose to promote trips to the area. However, this name was eventually given to the coast of Malaga. Today, the Almerian coast boasts kilometre upon kilometre of virgin and urban beaches, hidden coves and, the Cabo de Gata-Nijar and el de Punta Entinas-Sabinar natural parks. In the past, to protect the wealth of the area, many towers and forts were constructed along the coast. Today, these fortifications and the traditional, white-washed villages, add to the magic of this stunning coastline, with their silhouettes standing proud against the natural beauty
Roquetas de Mar: something for everybody
At about 214 kilometres in length, the Almerian coast has always been an intriguing destination for tourists. Back in 1928, a German businessman dubbed it the Costa del Sol with the intent and purpose to promote trips to the area. However, this name was eventually given to the coast of Malaga. Today, the Almerian coast boasts kilometre upon kilometre of virgin and urban beaches, hidden coves and, the Cabo de Gata-Nijar and el de Punta Entinas-Sabinar natural parks. In the past, to protect the wealth of the area, many towers and forts were constructed along the coast. Today, these fortifications and the traditional, white-washed villages, add to the magic of this stunning coastline, with their silhouettes standing proud against the natural beauty
Roquetas de Mar: something for everybody
Just 24 kilometres to the south-east of the city of Almeria you’ll come across the town of Roquetas de Mar. Aside from the impressive 16th century Castillo de Santa Ana, this town also has a number of other unmissable sites like: the 14th century Moorish watchtower, Torre Vigia de Cerrillos, the Sabinar lighthouse and the Church of our Lady Rosario. Furthermore, the town has the largest aquarium in all Andalusia, where visitors have the opportunity to take a swim and get up close and personal with the aquarium’s sharks.
In Roquetas de Mar, you´ll also be able to discover the Punta Entinas-Sabina Natural Park. This protected area is made up of over 16 kilometres of virgin beaches, a diverse ecosystem, extensive sand dunes, wetlands and salt lakes. If you are a keen birdwatcher, these salt lakes and wetlands are a great place to see flamingos and other migratory birds. To top it off, Roquetas de Mar has a number of urban beaches like Bajadilla and Playa Serena, both of which have great facilities and fly blue flags. Additionally, you can enjoy a short ride on the bike paths or take a stroll down the coastal path and promenade, enjoying the calm of the gardens and the shade of the palm trees.
Visiting Roquetas de Mar puts you within a 35-minute drive to enjoy a day trip to Oasys MiniHollywood. Here, you can take in the sights and sounds of the Wild West and see the famous desert locations, which were the home of Spaghetti Westerns. Apart from the Wild West features, the theme park has a water park and animal reserve, which is home to lions, cheetahs, rhinoceroses and, other species.
Mojácar
It’s no wonder that Mojácar is included in ‘The Most Charming Towns & Villages in Spain’ as it truly is a beautiful sight to behold. Its white-washed houses ascend the foothills of Sierra de Cabrera; their walls reflecting the shades of sunlight throughout the day, coloured by the local geraniums and violets. It’s a destination that deserves its international recognition and it doesn’t disappoint when you visit. There are plenty of walks to take in the foothills, where you are likely to come across some of the beautiful wildlife and perhaps, even, the protected, spur-thighed tortoise. The town can also boast a fine array of restaurants, serving wonderful national and international cuisine.
Mojácar is the name of both the town and the municipality and this area has over 17 kilometres of pristine beaches in total. The wide variety of beaches on offer means that there is definitely one for you to enjoy. If you fancy beaches with all of the facilities and opportunities to participate in a number of water sports, like; kayaking, surfing, kite-surfing or, snorkelling, then be sure to check out las Ventanicas, La Cueva del Lobo or El Palmeral. If you would rather find a quiet, secluded cove, then you could always spend the day at la Cala de la Granatilla o la Cala del Sombrerico.
Carboneras
Before journeying outside of the municipality of Mojácar, it is highly recommended that you visit the unique natural paradise; Carboneras. Situated within the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, over 80% of the town is granted protected status, with the remaining 20% excluded on the grounds of industry in the historic centre and, especially, because it has the largest salt-works in Europe. The town lives in the shadow of the ancient volcano, Mesa Roldan, which despite slowly losing its crater to erosion, is a site to behold. Today, you can climb to the summit to visit the Mesa Roldan Lighthouse and get some incredible views and photographs of the natural park. Furthermore, if you want to see some impressive historical architecture then, we suggest you visit at least one of the 15 listed buildings in Carboneras such as, the Moorish cisterns, the castles or La Torre Nazari. Like the rest of the Almerian coast, Carboneras has plenty of coastal areas to enjoy. Not only are there 15 km of fantastic beaches, but you can also visit San Andres Island. Just offshore, this natural monument is particularly popular with divers and snorkelers who delight in its waters.
Vera
A few kilometres away from Mojacar, you’ll come across another beautiful town on the Almerian Coast; Vera. Visitors can walk around a variety of historical monuments like the 16th century fortified church, or, explore one of the five museums. For those who want more dynamic activities, Vera has a wide array on offer like, scuba diving, windsurfing, sailing, caving or, hiking up the Holy Spirit’s Mount or in the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park. Be sure to visit the Playa de los Muertos, one of the beaches along Vera’s 6 km of coastline. This beach has been voted the ‘best beach in the world’ on two occasions, in the Spanish newspaper 20 Minutos.
Aguadulce
A short distance from Mojácar, sheltered in the foothills of the municipality of Roquetas de Mar, you’ll find the small village of Aguadulce. You’ll find plenty of activities to enjoy at its marina and on its promenade. This village has a vibrant night life, with a variety of bars and clubs for you to relax with a drink or dance the night away. Though small, Aguadulce remains alive throughout the year and so provides its visitors with a wide range of facilities. Its beach stretches for 2 kilometres and has been praised for providing excellent accessibility for people with reduced mobility. Not to be forgotten, there is also an archaeological site, on the coast, which dates back 3,000 years to the Bronze Age.
Garrucha
Moving on, we come to Garrucha. Situated between the municipalities of Vera and Mojácar, this town was a much sought after place by its neighbours, who fought for centuries to gain control of its coastal position. In time, and especially in the 20th century, it was a hub for entertainment and casinos. Today, visitors can sunbathe on its immaculate beach or enjoy a walk down the beautiful esplanade, complete with its balustrade of Macael marble and verdant gardens. After a walk, the traditional cuisine will surely delight your taste buds with some of the finest seafood in the region. Be sure to try some of the local specialties like the red prawns, mackerel, baby clams or a seafood casserole.
Las Negras
Apart from the locations above, there are still a number of other towns and villages worthy of mention. The charming village of Las Negras is a particular favourite for those who want to stay in and explore the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park.
Almerimar
For people looking for aquatic activities, then the town of Almerimar is a great location to visit. Situated between the Gador mountain range and the Mediterranean, this town offers plenty for tourists to do, including visiting the filming locations for ‘Conan the Barbarian’.
Berja
If history and hiking appeal to you, then you should head to the Almerian Alpujarra and small village of Berja. This village, situated on the slopes of the Gádor mountain range, offers hikers a number of trails in its unique environment. You can also enjoy a visit to the archaeological sites, churches, fortresses and impressive stately homes.
