The best of Almeria

THE Costa Almeria is arguably one of Spain’s best- kept secrets. Despite having a considerable expatriate community, many British people have never even heard of Mojacar, Vera or Garrucha.

Even British travel agents aren’t always clued up on the area.

A poster was spotted recently in an Essex travel agency window, advertising rental cars to explore the ‘island’, as part of a Costa Almeria holiday deal.

For many expatriate residents and visitors, Almeria’s off-the-beaten track nature is part of its appeal. Jasmine Harman of Channel 4’s A Place in the Sun came to Mojacar earlier this year to film an episode.

She said that she loves how Almeria is still so Spanish, compared to other more well-known Costa destinations.

EWN asked visitors and residents what they considered to be the top tourist attractions on the Costa Almeria.

Mojacar Pueblo came out top of the list.

Those questioned said that it was a lovely place to explore, with charming cobbled-streets and a unique atmosphere.

The Vera Water Park and Mini-Hollywood in the Tabernas desert were also seen as highly recommended attractions for visiting friends and family.

Almeria’s beaches, including Cabo de Gata, were considered one of the province’s main tourist draws.

In Almeria City itself, the Alcazaba Palace was the number one attraction. It compares to Granada’s Alhambra in splendour and historical value, and entrance is free for European citizens.

The caves in Karst en Yesos Natural Park in Sorbas are known as some of the most important in Europe.

People who have visited them said that it was a fantastic adventure, and an affordable day out.

Other places worth a visit were said to be Cuevas de Almanzora’s Castle, Roquetas de Mar, Sierra Cabrera and the Alpujarra.

Nearly everybody asked said that tourists come to Almeria for the sunshine and wonderful beaches, but that while they are here they should definitely see a bit more. 

By Susan Leach
s.leach@euroweeklynews.com