Almeria, Spain

Spain is no stranger to war. It is no surprise to find a fortress, like Alcazaba, in the center of the city. Built sometime between the 10th and 15th centuries, this palatial fortress was home to kings. Visitors to Alcazaba can visit the Outer Citadel and the Inner Citadel. The Outer includes the Tower of Christ, gardens, a chapel, and fountains. The Inner is where the kings and officials lived, so you’ll be able to see the palace and other minor dwellings that were once occupied by workers and military. There is also a courtyard and garden inside the Inner Citadel.

Ca;;e A;cazabilla, 2, 29015 Malaga, Spain, Phone: 34-630-93-29-87

The Spanish Civil War was a horrifying time for the Spanish people, no matter the side taken. Though not directly involved in the War, Almeria’s location made it a prime target for both air and sea raids. Because of these attacks, architect Guillermo Langle Rubio designed and built tunnels beneath the city to house the civilians during bombings. Today’s visitors can take a guided tour, by appointment only, through the tunnels, the storerooms, and the operating room. Overall, the shelter could be used by over 34,000 people during one of the 52 bombings that Almeria saw.

Plaza Manuel Perez García, 1, 04003 Almería, Spain, Phone: 34-950-26-86-96

Romantic Activities and Attractions:

The Catedral de Almeria is a Cathedral that speaks to Spain’s long devotion to the Christian faith. Archeological evidence shows that there was a Christian community as far back as the 8th Century, before Muslim invasion. The Cathedral’s formal name is the Cathedral of the Incarnation of Almeria. When visiting the cathedral, it’s important to keep in mind that this is the seat of the bishop for the Southern peninsular region, so certain guidelines and models of respect should be followed. The architecture of the cathedral is sure to amaze any history enthusiast, as well as the artwork and historic items kept inside.

Plaza de la Catedral, 8, 04001 Almeria, Spain, Phone: 34-605-39-64-83

Playa de Almeria is the entire coast of the Southern Peninsula along the Mediterranean Sea that has been bunched together for the purpose of advertising tourism. The 135-mile-long coast has an abundance of beaches, cliffs, and desert areas. When choosing which beach you’ll want to go to, be sure to take into account that the majority of these beaches are nude-tolerant. This means that while they are not sponsored nudist beaches, it is not frowned upon, so it may not be suitable for all family members. Pristine beaches, clear waters, and caves make for great exploration and snorkeling.

Almeria, Spain

Tabernas Desert is considered the only true desert in Europe. This desert is semi-arid, however, lending to an abundant flora life throughout. In fact, it receives more rain per year than the Coast. This 110-square mile desert has been declared a Special Protection Area for Birds since there is such a variety of ornithological species throughout. While mammals are not as common, there are still some, like the Spanish hedgehog, that can be found. Visitors are encouraged to explore the Hollywood sets that have become part of the Tabernas landscape. Today, the Desert is still used for filming, most recently in Game of Thrones.

Almeria, Spain

If you are traveling with kids:

Playa El Playazo is one of the most deserted-feeling beaches in the area. It is mostly untouched, with no services available in the area. On top of this, the beach is mostly rocky, with high cliff faces. These are great areas for sunbathers, and the small islands that are just off the shore are great to swim to and lie out as well. Guests can jump into the nearby cave, enjoying the cool water hidden beneath. This beach is fairly easy to get to, with a parking lot right adjacent to the beach. The clear waters also make for excellent snorkeling and diving.

29780 Nerja, Malaga, Spain, Phone: 34-652-93-05-11

The arid landscape of the Tabernas Desert is quite similar in appearance to America’s Old West. Because of this, many spaghetti Westerns and modern movies are filmed in this area. In fact, this area has earned the title of Mini Hollywood because of its usage in movies like Indian Jones and the Last Crusade and The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. Many Wild Wets Sets have been preserved for visiting tourists. One set has been turned into Oasys Theme Park with a zoo, swimming pool, shops, Old Wild West shows, and buildings to explore. In this area, Fort Bravo and Western Leone have also been preserved for tourism.

Carretera Nacional 340A, km 646, 04200 Tabernas, Almeria, Spain, Phone: 34-950-36-52-36

Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park is located in the Southeastern tip of Spain, in the Almeria area. Visitors will be treated to the many diverse environments scattered throughout the park. Along with beaches, rocky coastlines, and cliffs, guests will find desert environs, coral reefs, and a lot of vegetation. Today, the park is protected, for both the flora and fauna. The lack of habitation in the area has kept this park mostly untouched, and guests are encouraged to take part in eco-friendly activities, like bird watching, photography, and hiking. Some towns dot the Cabo de Gata area, so there is plenty of opportunity for shopping.

04118 Nijar, Almeria, Spain

For a relaxing day on the beach:

When looking for a flat beach with calm waters, you’ll want to check out Playa de Los Genoveses. This area is perfect for families since the water is calm and shallow. However, it is completely undeveloped, so there are no powerlines, roads, or buildings here. Because of this, you must be sure to pack everything you’ll need for your day at the beach. Before breaking into the fine-sand beach, you’ll pass through a small eucalyptus grove protecting the beach from the harsher desert climate on the other side. Be sure to plan ahead, as windy days cause the fine sand to blow, making a trip to Playa de Los Genoveses quite uncomfortable.

Almeria, Spain

Originally named because of the lost sailors who wound up on the shore, Playa de Los Muertos is a safe beach and guarded by sea. The crystal-clear waters of this beach allow for excellent swimming and watching marine life while snorkeling. Though this beach is entirely service free, meaning no bathrooms or bars, some vendors do make it onto the beach during busy times. However, the walk down to the beach is what makes Playa de Los Muertos one of the more untouched beaches. Expect to wear real walking shoes to traverse down the steep path, rather than normal beachwear.

Almeria, Spain