Costa Almeria

The Spanish province of Almeria boasts about 200 miles (322km) of varied, scenic coastline that attracts package tourists to its developed resorts near the main towns, but also offers idyllic spots for nature-lovers to explore with its many unspoilt fishing villages, long sandy beaches and small intimate coves popular with nudists. Sunny and mild, Almeria lies southeast of the Iberian Peninsula on the Mediterranean Sea, still bearing the archaeological evidence of the many ancient cultures, from the Tartessos and Phoenicians to the Romans and Visigoths, who were drawn here by the natural beauty and useful maritime geographic location. The region retains an African flavour, imbibed from that continent which is a short distance away across the Mediterranean. Inland, Almeria is rather barren and arid, and boasts Europe's only desert region around the village of Tabernas, which has been used as the location for several western movies. In the east the lunar-landscaped Cabo de Gata-Nijar nature reserve with its rugged coastline, attracts hikers, birders and scuba divers. Despite the dry, inhospitable landscape Almeria has developed a thriving agricultural industry and plastic-covered tunnel farms packed with lush fresh produce and flowers are to be seen in abundance. Most visitors flock to the holiday resorts to the east and west of the lively capital city of Almeria, which boasts picturesque squares, some worthy sights to see, cafes, a ferry port and marina. Lovely beaches, marinas, hotels and sports centres provide plenty to keep holidaymakers happy in the resort towns of Mojacar to the east, and Aguadulce, Roquetas de Mar and Almerimar to the west of the city.

The passing of time has also caused disparities in the landscape. As a result, in Almería, you can enjoy popular, modern tourist resorts and natural areas where mankind has barely left its mark. The climate is Mediterranean, warm and dry, with low rainfall. The number of hours of sun is very high with over 3,000 hours per year. The temperature remains mild throughout the year. It does not fall below an average of 13ºC in winter, nor does it rise above an average 25º C in summer. Thanks to this mild climate, visitors can enjoy all the possibilities offered by the province at any time of year. Almería has been visited by many people throughout its history, perhaps because of its beautiful landscape or perhaps because of its geographical location. The important archaeological remains found in the province have helped researchers discover and analyze the existence of old cultures. On the coast of Almería, you can enjoy varied folklore and plenty of fiestas, inherited from ancestors, as well as popular handicrafts designed with painstaking care (pottery, ceramics, esparto, rugs and marble). Gastronomic specialties such as paprika, gurullos (stews), porridge and seafood soup are also a legacy from the region's rich past.

Almeria City

The ancient Andalusian city of Almeria lies sheltered at the base of a bay, proudly dominated by the amazing Alcazaba, a huge Moorish citadel with three walled enclosures dating from 995. From the citadel visitors have a good view of the city’s most impressive and important Christian monument, the Cathedral, dating from 1524, designed more like a fortress than a church because of the need to defend it from pirate attacks. The Cathedral contains numerous art treasures, including a tabernacle dating from the 18th century, designed by Ventura Rodriguez. With its interesting medieval architecture, Almeria’s old town is a delight to stroll through with its tranquil squares, archways and colonnades. The city also has a fascinating archaeological museum and unique cave dwellings in the hillside above the old gypsy quarter.