Costa Almeria

The Costa Almeria is as varied as any of the Spanish Coasts. The coast is completely unspoilt. To the east of Almeria we find the rugged and desolate coast of the Cabo de Gata - Nijar natural park. This is an arid desert landscape and the annual rainfall here is less than 200mm. It is sparsely populated, few villages and a very low population density. Visitors feel a sense of exploration here as many of the coves can only be reached on foot. This area is particularly popular with nature lovers and back-packers. West of Almeria is the highly developed tourist resorts of Roquetas de Mar and Aguadulce.

History

If you can’t stand lazing around on the beach all day long and prefer to make the most of your time away by visiting local historical sights, then the Costa de Almeria will certainly keep your days busy with a wealth of historical sightseeing to be done. Sightseeing in Almeria really is the best way to really appreciate the history of Almeria. In the city of Almeria, you’re likely to find most of the amazing attractions awaiting you. The Alcazaba castle was once home to more than 20,000 army men during times of war, and is a reminder of the city’s hey day as a major textile industry. The castle dominates the city and sits in the hills towering over the Barrio de la Chanca area of Almeria, including the stunning gothic cathedral.

Gastronomy

The seafaring essence of Águilas determines the origins of the ingredient of the local dishes: Fresh fish, prepared in a million different ways. Some examples of this: the “moraga”, with sardines, the “parrillada” of fish, squid, prawn, and even whiting and red mullet. Anchovies in a dressing of garlic, vinegar, and paprika, sea-bass “alajopescador”, pickled swordfish... seafood rice, brines, octopus salad, fish broth, and delicious desserts like “tortada” , and “pan de higos”. From the land we have exquisite tomatoes and capers. This ancestral cuisine features some contrasts in terms of tastes, as well as being strongly rooted in the maritime tradition: fish stew, octopus salad, ajo colorao, ensaladica cocida, arroz a banda.

Places of Interest

The Spanish region of Almeria contains this beautiful city. A seemingly white mountain will appear before you as you travel towards the city, almost as though it was covered in snow. This is due to the white washed houses that are held closely to the side of the cliffs. The mountains of Sierra Cabrera and the crystal clear waters of the sea squeeze the houses together. This is why Mojacar is the most celebrated attraction for tourists in the Southern corner of Spain. The history of this great culture is well kept by the citizens of the area. If you plan on visiting the area you will do well to know something about it before visiting. The Arabians were the first noted inhabitants of the area. They named in Munsaqar and spent hundreds of years fighting the Christian armies over the right to live in the area. There remain many historical artifacts and architecture that have stood the test of time.
In the fifteenth century Spain reclaimed the area led by King Ferdinand. Some of the Arabians architecture has been preserved and today is being protected by law. One of these preserved pieces of architecture is the Moorish fortress, which brings the visitor in to the environment the Arabs existed in after their travels from Africa. In memory of the Arabian-Christian struggle that took place in the area a huge fiesta is held every year. Mock battles fought with fake swords, fantastic outfits, and enormous cigars are all used to better remember the struggle that happened there, as well as throw a swell party.