An area stark natural beauty where the colour of sea and vegetation stand out against the arid tones of the land. Small resort areas on the coast and inland have been introduced, yet the fact that large stretches of land fall within protected natural parks means that the region is protected from over-development. Inland Almeria has an almost lunar landscape of desert, sandstone and dried up river beds and has long been a popular choice for filming adventure and western style epics. Those who visit or buy properties here still enjoy such luxuries as golf courses, water sports, restaurants and the benefits of good infrastructures and communications, yet the kind of person who comes to the Costa de Almería is very keen to preserve the charm of this unique corner of Spain.
The Resorts of Mojacar
Undoubtedly the most romantic and picturesque resort town in south-eastern Spain, this is Almeria's 'Ronda' --the white-washed houses and cobbled streets of Mojacar are sprinkled atop a hill overlooking pristine sandy beaches, washed by the warm Mediterranean. This unspoilt ancient Moorish fortress town has been a favorite with artists and writers for many years, and now attracts holiday-makers who happily stroll along the beaches and the historic streets. The village centre is honeycombed with narrow Kasbah-like cobbled alleyways, which hide many quaint surprises, like a Roman fountain pumping fresh spring water and the unusual fortified church of Santa Maria.
Mojacar Playa is the most cosmopolitan and lively part of the Almeria coastline. Surrounded by the sea on one side and the magnificent mountains of the Sierra Cabrera to the rear Mojaca with sandy beaches, stretching for 9km beneath the ancient village of Mojacar extending as far as the eye can see in both directions. The main beach strip features many shops, hotels, internet cafes and a great variety of international restaurants.
The Town of Vera
The town of Vera is very prosperous, sunny and has many shops and stores. Vera is rich in its handicraft and the amount of tourists is constantly increasing, because of its well-known cuisine. There are fancy restaurants, as well as the popular Spanish Tapas (small rations).
The friendliness and hospitality of the almost 7,000 inhabitants of Vera make this town especially attractive for residents and guests.
Getting There
Almeria Airport is just north of Almeria city and is easy to fly in and out of from the UK and Europe. More and more low-cost carriers are now offering scheduled routes.
Another option is to fly into Murcia's San Javier Airport and then travel down to Almeria (about a 1 hour drive).