With its prime location in sunny southern Spain, Almería combines fascinating historical sites with beautiful beaches and plenty more besides. There’s even a ferry port from where you can take an exciting trip to North Africa. Almería is a great base for exploring Andalusia, so that you can combine the contrasts of the coast and the desert during your stay.
The highlights of history
If you’re visiting the center of Almería, you’ll find a number of enthralling sites to dive into. One of the most impressive is the Catedral de la Encarnacion, with its imposing towers and parapets. The building combines Gothic and Renaissance influences and was built on the former site of a mosque destroyed by an earthquake in the 16th century.
Climb the narrow streets to the west of the cathedral and you’ll reach perhaps the most famous attraction in Almería, the Alcazaba. This ancient fortress was built in the 10th century by the region’s Muslim rulers. A former royal residence with three walled enclosures called recintos, it dominates the skyline and can be seen from anywhere in the city. Head inside to see the varied residential, palace and battlement areas.
On a hilltop close to the Alcazaba, you’ll come across the Castillo de San Cristobal. Built in the 12th century as a military fortress, today the structure lies in ruins and is protected as a special historic site under Spanish law. Entry is free and it’s a brilliant place to learn all about Almería’s past.
A taste of Hollywood
Not far from the city center, just a short drive up the A-92, you’ll find the Tabernas Desert. This vast landscape, with its striking similarity to the Wild West, has been the setting for a number of movies, from Lawrence of Arabia to Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Today, the desert is a protected national park and popular tourist hotspot, thanks to the many Western villages that were built for filming here. One of the best-preserved sets can be found at Fort Bravo, created for Sergio Leone’s classic The Good, The Bad and The Ugly in 1966. Film fans might also want to visit Los Albaricoques, a real village used as a location in several movies.
The lure of the coast
If you head east out of the city, you’ll find the maritime park Cabo de Gata. Filled with beautiful areas of untouched natural coastline with volcanic origins, you’ll find idyllic bays and serene water perfect for a swim. Dotted along the coast are many charming little fishing villages and cliffs with excellent views of the Mediterranean and surrounding areas.
Summer is the most popular time to visit this area but those who are planning a long hike might find it more comfortable in the cooler months. Venturing along the coast takes you to sites including the former gold mining village of Rodalquilar, now home to serene botanical gardens, and the lighthouse at Torre de los Lobos, with its gorgeous views. All of these places are on your doorstep with car rental in Almería