Sunny Spain. Almeria and its white beaches. How to get from the airport to the center of Almeria. Entertainment and attractions of Almeria

The resort of Almeria is located in the southeast of Spain. It is the main city of the Costa del Almeria coastal province of the same name in the autonomous region of Andalusia. Although still relatively young, but at the same time promisingly developing and prosperous, this resort attracts more and more tourists every year. They come here for great vacation, which will provide beautiful beaches, mild climate, amazing nature, developed tourist infrastructure and unique history of the region. Almeria is preferred by tourists who like outdoor activities, plus lovers of a variety of entertainment and sightseeing tours.

The essence of the resort - the main cultural and tourist center of Andalusia - is fully reflected by the names given to this area by the Romans: Portus Magnus ("Great Port") and the Arabs: Espejo Del Mar ("Mirror of the Sea"). The second name, fairly reworked by the locals, became the basis for the name of the resort. Moreover, Almeria, sung by poets, is not in vain called the "mistress of the sun" - it caresses her like no other corner of Europe.

The nature of Almeria is striking in its contrasts: there are many kilometers of beaches of light gray sand, and majestic rocks, either smoothly descending to the sea, or abruptly breaking off above it. In contrast to the greenery of some areas, there are rocky deserts without vegetation and rivers with dry channels: the nature of this resort seems unbridled and wild.

Almeria is famous for its many kilometers of white sand beaches and a huge number of beautiful shells.

How to get there

Almeria is very easy to get to. by air: there is an airport of the same name where direct flights of the Iberia airline arrive. The ticket price will depend on the season: the most expensive flight will cost in June-August - 370 to 500 EUR in both directions. In the period August-May, tickets will cost from 330 EUR.

If you want to visit not only this, but also other resorts in Spain, you can get here by flights with transfers in Barcelona and Madrid. Aeroflot planes fly to Madrid from Moscow every day. From Madrid to Almeria can be reached by bus (ticket price 28-50 EUR).

Prices on the page are for November 2018.

Search for flights to the city of Malaga (nearest airport to Almeria)

Weather in Almeria

The resort is characterized by a mild Mediterranean climate. Almeria is the record holder for the number sunny days in a year. And there is very little precipitation here, and they last only a few days somewhere between November and February. Therefore, you can get a beautiful tan in the resort of Almeria at any time of the year. Average annual temperatures mediterranean climate Almerias are + 15-25 ° С. The air temperature in winter reaches +5 °C to +12 °C, the water at this time of the year has a temperature of +5 °C to + 8 °C. In March-June, the temperature here is about 23 °C, in July it reaches 28 °C, and the sea warms up to 23 °C. You can swim here until late autumn, because the water temperature does not drop below 18 ° C until November.

Beaches

Almeria is famous for its many kilometers of white sand beaches and a huge number of beautiful shells. The beaches of Almeria, like many Spanish beach areas, are characterized by the Blue Flag of environmental cleanliness. This means that the beach season in Spain will not bring any unpleasant surprises to tourists.

The developed beach infrastructure of Almeria will allow you to relax here with maximum comfort. In addition, here you can find a wide variety of entertainment, including water sports (jet skis, sailing catamarans, etc.). Children will also have something to do: the beaches of Almeria are equipped with various children's amusement rides.

Along beach area goes pedestrian embankment, where numerous restaurants, cafes, shops and souvenir shops are located. The most popular beaches on the coast are Las Salinas and La Almadrava de Monteleva. In addition, there are "wild" beaches - for example, Playa de Macenas, where you can enjoy secluded swimming, breaking away from the outside world.

Shopping and shops

Shopping lovers will not be deprived either, because there is a huge number of a wide variety of shops and shopping centers. A fascinating walk through the souvenir shops will end with the purchase of a huge number of gifts for relatives and friends.

Guides in Almeria

Popular hotels in Almeria

Entertainment and attractions of Almeria

Of the sights of Almeria worth seeing Cathedral, built on the site of the ruins of the Muslim mosque Almedina in the spirit of late Gothic. In the old days, the cathedral was called the Cathedral-Fortress (Catedral-Fortaleza), since the entire population of the city could hide behind its mighty walls in the event of an attack by Berbers or Turks.

It is also worth visiting the ancient fortress of Alcazaba, Plaza Vieja (17th century) and the city hall building located on it (a monument of civil architecture of the 19th century). Fans of religious sites will note the monastery of Santo Domingo, a statue of the Blessed Virgin Maritime and Convent Las Claras and the Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Encarnacion. In addition, here are Archaeological Museum, Houses of the Marquises of Torrealta and Cabra, Palace of the Viscount Almansa.

6 things to do in Almeria

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Wild West, forgetting that you are in Spain.
Go on a photo hunt for architectural sights.
Spin the pedals on a bike ride through a beautiful nature reserve.
Buy souvenirs.
Relax on the beach.
Have fun at the water park.

Of the natural attractions, the Cabo de Gata Nijar nature reserve deserves attention. To see all the beauties of the reserve: lakes with clear water, palm trees, flower beds and feathered inhabitants of the reserve (especially the mysterious flamingos), it is better to rent a bike.

The desert near Almeria is very similar to the landscapes of Colorado - that is why a typical town from the times of the Wild West was built here for the filming of European westerns - now this place is interesting park entertainment. Cafe-saloons, exciting shows, a huge zoo, where more than a hundred species of animals live, do not leave tourists indifferent.

In Almeria, in front of the town hall, there is a monument to John Lennon. The long-suffering bronze monument was repeatedly attacked by vandals, who chipped off pieces of it as a keepsake. And once even broke the neck of the guitar. The resort administration plans to dismantle the monument erected in memory of the fact that it was in Almeria that John Lennon wrote the famous song "Strawberry Fields Forever".

Leisure

The picturesque mountains of Sierra Cabrera attract lovers skiing, wide and flat courses of Almeria - golf connoisseurs (equipment can be rented), transparent sea water and unique undersea world- fans aquatic species sports and diving. The latter will especially like the water park Parque Acuatico Mario Park near Almeria, in the town of Roquetas de Mar, in which many water slides, 6 swimming pools, artificial waves and jacuzzi.

Almeria- an actively developing Spanish resort on the coast mediterranean sea, the capital of the province of the same name, is part of the southern region of Andalusia.

This city was founded by the Arabs in the 10th century, on the site of Roman settlements, but Almeria's re-flourishment as a tourism center came in the 20s of the last century. Good beaches, warm sea and excellent southern climate already provide the city with all the qualities necessary for a seaside resort, and they add a classic Spanish atmosphere and a number of historical sights, which will diversify a beach holiday and become an additional incentive to visit Almeria.

Holidays in Almeria

The city of Almeria is located directly on the sea, the western part coastline occupied by the port, and the eastern one by a long and wide beach. The tourist infrastructure is very well developed; this industry occupies one of the leading places in the city's economy. Guests can stay in one of the many hotels of any category, quality and, accordingly, price. Leisure, in addition to a beach holiday, you can devote to excursions to local attractions or relaxing in restaurants, bars, nightclubs. lovers active rest they will also find something to do, in Almeria there are tennis courts, golf courses, you can go diving, surfing or go hiking.

Weather

The climate is Mediterranean and quite hot. There are no frosts in Almeria, the average annual temperature is 19.7 degrees Celsius. If we talk about the seasons, then in winter, even at night, the temperature is 9-10 degrees Celsius. At the same time, the water temperature is about 17 degrees, which is usually warmer than the air temperature and allows you to swim, albeit not fully, but without the risk of plunging into the sea at any time of the year. In summer, the usual air temperature exceeds 30 degrees Celsius, and on some days it can reach 40.

In Almeria, during the observation period, there were no frosts, the minimum temperature that was recorded was 0.1 degrees Celsius.

There is very little rainfall in Almeria, it is one of the driest cities in Europe, and the climate of the region is often described as desert. At the same time, there are more than a hundred clear days a year, which makes the city one of the sunniest on the continent.

beach season

Although you can comfortably relax in Almeria at any time of the year, most people still go to this resort for the sake of the beach and the sea. Swimming season starts in May average temperature water this month - about 18 degrees. The beginning of the month is not very suitable for swimming, but the end of May is already a full-fledged swimming season. The beach season in Almeria ends around October, the average water temperature this month is over 21 degrees. But, if you are lucky with the weather, even November will be quite a good time for swimming in the sea.

Map

Story

The first important settlements on the territory of present-day Almeria date back to the time of the Phoenicians. These were colonies that were engaged in fishing and participated in trade with Greece. But pretty soon, by the standards of ancient history, they were absorbed by the Carthaginian civilization.

However, the Carthaginians lost these territories during the Second Punic War, thanks to the successful campaign of Scipio, the Romans gain control of the Spanish shores. The future Almeria during the reign of Rome is called Portus Magnus, there is an active development - spices, garum fish sauce are produced, marble, salt are mined. After the fall of the empire, this area is occupied by barbarian tribes, and for a short period, control passes even to Byzantium.

Founding of Almeria

Almeria was founded by Muslims who conquered Spain. In 955, the caliph of Cordoba, Abd-ar-Rahman III, founded a fortress and a city that was to become the most important port in the region. This led to the rapid development of the settlement, almost immediately after the founding of Almeria reached its maximum prosperity.

Alcazaba of Almeria, a powerful fortress, has survived to this day, being the main attraction of the city. These walls can be seen in many films, including Conan the Barbarian and Indiana Jones.

The main port of the region developed not only as a center of trade. Built in the city educational establishments, a mosque, the remains of which can still be seen today, also Almeria was the location of almost 20,000 soldiers and an admiral, under whose command up to 300 ships could gather.

Almeria was often attacked and besieged. The first time the city fell to the army of Alfonso VII, who attacked the fortress as part of the reconquest and was able to take it in October 1147. At this time, the growth of the city stopped, and the Spaniards managed to stay in Almeria for only 10 years, after which the city went to the Moors.

Almeria was finally recaptured in 1489. It happened quite peacefully, the population surrendered voluntarily and came under the jurisdiction of the Spanish monarchs.

Middle Ages

The 16th century brought the city a strong decline, there were three unfavorable factors at once. The age of great geographical discoveries transferred all trade to the sea routes connecting the New and old light, and Almeria remained on the sidelines. At the same time, the city began to be attacked by pirates, which forced the inhabitants to move further from the coastline. But earthquakes finished off Almeria, the most destructive of which happened in 1522. It almost completely destroyed the city, no more than 700 inhabitants remained in the settlement, who began to settle around the cathedral.

The following centuries passed similarly, the 16th, 17th and 17th centuries - the time of the decline of Almeria. small population the city lives quite isolated, although marble and iron quarries operate in the vicinity, due to which the remains of the once large Almeria exist.

City rebuilding

Only the 19th century brought the beginning of a new stage of development. At that time in Spain there were various historical events- the war for independence, the adoption of a new constitution, etc., but these factors did not damage the city, and the vast iron reserves found attracted investment in Almeria and ensured population growth.

The next milestone is the 20s of the XX century. At this time, Almeria began to be perceived as a resort, in parallel with this there was an explosive growth in the field of agriculture. The use of greenhouses has made it possible to grow many products throughout the year in a warm climate.

Even now, all the neighborhoods of the city are occupied by a huge number of plastic greenhouses.

This period continues to this day, Almeria is actively developing as a resort, attracting more and more tourists from all over the world.

Attractions

A thousand years of history has left many traces in the city, from the ancient Moorish fortress to the architecture of the 19th century:

Alcazaba in Almeria	The pearl of the city, one of the largest fortresses that were built in Spain by Muslims. It was founded in 955, but in fact, many of the buildings of the original fortress have not been preserved, as it was often subjected to sieges and earthquakes. In the XIV century, when the city came under the rule of the Catholics, the alcazaba was actively used and completed. A cathedral appeared inside the walls, another floor of the castle for artillery was completed. It is the medieval buildings that have been well preserved almost in their original form and are now available to visitors. Also, the Almerian Alcazaba can be seen in many films.
Arena for bullfighting	A unique Spanish entertainment, often causing horror among visitors and massive protests from animal advocates, is also held in Almeria in a special stadium. It was built in 1888, during a period of active development of the city, when a growing and wealthy society began to need entertainment. Now the arena can accommodate 9800 spectators and functions for its intended purpose, the main fights take place in the last week of August.
underground shelters	During civil war(1936–1939) Almería was bombed. Citizens took security into their own hands and together, under the leadership of the municipal architect, mining engineer and civil engineer, built underground fortifications with a total length of 4.5 kilometers. Almost 35 thousand people, 2/3 of the population of the city, could hide in them (the rest could hide in the mountains and natural caves). The underground galleries were well equipped, in addition to simple living rooms pantries, an operating room were made in them, electricity was supplied, a ventilation system was developed with protection against throwing grenades. After the war, the shelters were not used, and now they work as a museum, but on occasion they will be able to protect the inhabitants of the city again.
Oasis Theme Park (Mini Hollywood)	Previously, so-called spaghetti westerns were filmed in Almeria, for which scenery was built in the Tabernas desert. It was here that many Clint Eastwood films were filmed (including The Good, the Bad and the Ugly), as well as other famous films such as Cleopatra (1963), Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Now the scenery has been turned into a large wild west theme park. In this place you can spend the whole day, it will be fun for both children and adults. The park offers a variety of entertainment: immersion in the atmosphere of westerns, horseback riding, a zoo, a swimming pool, thematic performances, etc. It should be borne in mind that the park is located about 30 kilometers from Almeria and it is better to set aside a whole day to visit it.
Museum of Almeria	Historical Museum founded at the beginning of the 20th century. In 2006, the museum moved to a new, large and comfortable building. Various antiques and archaeological finds are exhibited here, covering the history of the region from ancient times. In addition to the usual exhibits, the museum has a library of historical books, interactive systems that tell the history of the city.
Paseo de Almeria	The central street of the city, along which you will definitely walk when you find yourself in Almeria. Both important business departments and banks, as well as shops, restaurants, and hotels are concentrated here.
Church of the Virgin Mary del Mar	Temple in honor of the patroness of the city. The church itself is small in size, but it is interesting for its history, as the building was built in the 16th century. At the same time, the iconography with the Virgin Mary del Mar dates back to 1502.
Cathedral of Almeria	The main temple of the city, the construction of which began in 1522, immediately after the earthquake. Its appearance is quite unusual, looking from the outside you will not immediately realize that you have a Catholic cathedral in front of you.
Los Millares	Remains of an ancient settlement of the Copper Age. By those standards, this is a large city with a population of up to 1000 people, around which even protective walls of stones and clay were built. The ruins were accidentally discovered only in 1891, which ensured their safety. They were immediately transferred to the jurisdiction of historians, excavations on the territory of the ancient settlement are still being carried out.
Costa de Almeria	This is not a landmark, but an area with its capital in Almeria, which includes about 200 kilometers of coastline and many resorts. It makes sense to rent a car or use public transport to drive all over the Costa, stopping not only in big cities, but also in traditional villages and even on wild beaches.
Cabo de Gata	This is a national park that starts a couple of tens of kilometers from the city and covers an area of 9,000 hectares. On its territory there is a lighthouse, several authentic fishing villages, tourist centers, but most of the park is a unique untouched nature. amazing wild beaches, caves and mountains will not leave anyone indifferent.

Almeria itself and the entire region is replete with various attractions, both more famous and those that tourists find by chance when they arrive in the city. But it is important that every vacationer will find something to do. There is also entertainment for children, such as the already mentioned Oasis Park, as well as for lovers of nature or outdoor activities, for example, eco-tours, boat trips along the coast, etc. During the day, when the scorching sun does not allow you to relax on the beach, you can visit one of the many museums, not only historical, but such as the museum of the guitar or art gallery. At night, bars, clubs and restaurants open their doors to visitors, the atmosphere in which corresponds to the spirit of southern Spain.

Photo

Located on the coast of the Alboran Sea (the westernmost part of the Mediterranean Sea), the city of Almeria has experienced more than one shake-up in its long history: it was captured, liberated, destroyed and rebuilt. It was shaking here in the truest sense of the word: earthquakes are not uncommon in this seismically turbulent area. But nothing could stop Almeria from becoming what it has become - the tourist Mecca of southern Spain.

The unofficial symbol of Almeria is Indalo, a man holding a rainbow in his hands. His image was found in Cave of inscriptions (Cueva de los Letreros) near the city.
Almeria became the last city Andalusia , which Franco's troops were able to conquer.
During Franco's dictatorship, one of the largest political prisons in southern Spain was located in Almeria. It was called El Ingenio and was located in the building of a former sugar factory.
On Paseo de Almeria there is a monument to John Lennon, who in Almeria in 1967 participated in the filming of the film How I Won the War.

At the crossroads of worlds

The first people settled on the territory of modern Almeria in the Neolithic times. Later, the Phoenicians and Romans appreciated the favorable location of the settlement with direct access to the sea. But the most important page in the history of the city is connected with the Arab period. It is thanks to the Moors that Almeria got its name. According to one version, in Arabic it sounded like "al-Mariyyat" (al-Mariyyāt), which means "mirror of the sea." On the other - "al-miraya", that is, a watchtower. Indeed, the first tower of the future Alcazaba, a huge fortress even by modern standards, was built in 955 by the Caliph Abd ar-Rahman III of Cordoba. This date is considered the official birthday of Almería.

So the "land" Emirate of Cordoba got its own port - at that time one of the largest in the Mediterranean and arranged with the latest technology. This tidbit passed several times from the Moors to Christians and back, and only in 1489 finally surrendered to the Catholic kings - Isabella and Ferdinand.

Almeria, which turned out to be part of medieval Spain, was waiting for a “black streak”. Firstly, during the era of great geographical discoveries, the port of the city did not participate in any way in expeditions to New World, overseas wealth passed through Cadiz and settled in the pockets of local businessmen. Secondly, at the end of the 15th - beginning of the 16th centuries, the city several times experienced strong earthquakes that destroyed entire areas and, worst of all, the port. All this slowed down the development of Almeria until the end of the 19th century, when iron ore began to be mined in the province and grapes and citrus fruits were grown for sale.

The heyday awaited Almeria after Franco: American directors arrived in the neighboring desert of Tabernas to shoot cult films; fragrant tomatoes ripened all year round in greenhouses, which were exported throughout Europe; and most importantly - the region was covered for themselves by tourists. 108 sunny days a year make Almeria one of the sunniest cities in Europe. There are never frosts here, and the water temperature in winter is higher than the air temperature. The place also boasts stunning landscapes, because the city stands in the most photogenic location - at the junction of mountains and the sea, there are natural parks nearby, and historical monuments created by the hands of previous generations of Almerians.

History in stone

The main attraction of the city, of course, is the Almeria Fortress (or Alcazaba). Today it is the second largest in Spain of the surviving fortifications built during the Arab conquest. Unfortunately, numerous wars and sieges, as well as earthquakes, destroyed many walls and buildings of the castle, but even now one can appreciate the scale of the entire project.

Alcazaba consisted of three levels. On the first one there was a military camp, where ordinary citizens lived during the hostilities. Now this place is divided into gardens, which offer stunning views of the city and the sea. On the second level were the palace of the rulers, a mosque, baths and shops. The third, highest level was built by the Christians, who placed artillery here. All three parts of the fortress are surrounded by a powerful wall five meters high and three meters wide and connected by stairs and passages.

The oldest surviving non-military and non-religious building in Almeria is the Hospital of St. Mary Magdalene (Hospital de Santa María Magdalena), built in the 16th century and undergoing significant architectural changes two centuries later. Therefore, the building has elements of both baroque and neoclassical.

If we return to the military theme, then the fortress wall, which surrounded the whole of Almeria, was demolished only in 1855, and in its place arose main avenue city - Paseo de Almeria (Paseo de Almería). This wide picturesque street with numerous cafes, restaurants, shops, banks and offices is the main commercial and cultural artery of Almeria.

However, Paseo de Almeria - favorite place local residents, tourists, of course, prefer the embankments, especially the Nicolas Salmeron Park (Parque Nicolás Salmerón) - a green zone that separates the city from the port.

Since Almeria is primarily a port city, enjoy beach holiday and beauties of nature tourists prefer in a unique natural park Cabo de Gata Nijar (Parque natural del Cabo de Gata-Níjar), located just 30 km from the city. 63 kilometers of pristine beaches, numerous hiking trails, lighthouse, Coral reefs, more than a thousand rare or endangered species of animals and many cozy hotels - all this made the natural reserve known far beyond the borders of Spain.

Taste of the South

Capital of the province of the same name, major seaport and famous tourist centre. Rich story the city is reflected in numerous historical monuments, here you can see beautiful buildings, visit fascinating museums and exhibitions.

The most famous attraction is the Alcazaba fortress, which was built during the time of the Moors. The castle was built in the 13th century by the order of Emir Abdarakhman, after which it was repeatedly completed and expanded, so it eventually makes up a rather impressive architectural complex. On the very high tower Torre del Omenahe has a viewing platform from which visitors can admire the city's surroundings. Not far from the castle is the village of La Chanca, notable for the fact that its inhabitants have chosen as their homes small caves. Dwellings are equipped with the latest technology. Fishing has been the main industry of local residents for many centuries.

Another significant medieval building is the Cathedral, which was built in the middle of the 16th century. In the Middle Ages, the city was attacked by pirates, the cathedral repeatedly saved the inhabitants during raids, it looks more like a castle or a fortress than a religious shrine. The cathedral was destroyed several times, so its individual parts are made in different architectural styles, you can distinguish the features of Gothic, Renaissance and Classicism. Copyright www.site

Also worth a visit is the Templo de San Juan, which was built in the 17th century. Opposite the temple is the city hall building, beautiful and unusual, reminiscent of the outlines of a beautiful palace. Those wishing to visit the place archaeological sites can go to the town of Gador, where several prehistoric settlements have been found and archaeologists continue to work at present.

Ancient hospitals can hardly be classified as classic sights, but the Hospital of St. Mary Magdalene located in Almeria is an exception. It is located in close proximity to the Cathedral, the hospital building today is the oldest in the city. It was built back in the 16th century. Several hundred years later, its main facade remained absolutely unchanged. The old hospital is a complex of beautiful historical buildings, on its territory there is a chapel, and also an old shelter. For tourists spend interesting excursions That's why architectural complex during which you can see its most hidden corners.

You should definitely visit the main city museum - the Museum of Almeria. A significant part of its exposition consists of finds by archaeologists, which were discovered during the exploration of the city and its immediate environs. The opening of this museum took place in 1933, since its collection was expanding all the time, the museum repeatedly moved to a new building. Today, the museum presents many unique exhibits dating back to the Paleolithic period, as well as thematic expositions dedicated to the history of primitive people.

Among the religious sights of Almeria, one should definitely highlight the Church of St. James of Zebedee, which was founded at the end of the 15th century. It was possible to complete this church only in 1559; over the years of its existence, it was repeatedly rebuilt and supplemented with new elements. The last reconstruction of the church took place in the first half of the 20th century, when its facade was decorated with new bas-reliefs.

How is it superior to other Spanish regions and where is cinematic Texas really located?

The Andalusian coast of the Costa de Almeria remains a white spot for vacationers from Russia. It is difficult to understand why this is happening - probably, this region has not yet been "promoted" in our market of tourist services. Meanwhile, Almeria is in no way inferior to other Spanish resorts, and in some ways even surpasses them. Many experts believe that in the near future a holiday in Almeria will be a good alternative to a holiday in Turkey. One way or another, the time has come to talk about the newest direction that Russian operators have begun to offer.

The sea off the coast of Almeria is so warm that you can swim even in winter: the water here is always warmer than the air, and its mean annual temperature never drops below +18 degrees!

Andalusia is an agricultural region of Spain. There are no large industrial giants here, and therefore this area is considered the most prosperous in the country in terms of ecology. Where else can you breathe in such unspoiled air, swim in such clear water and taste the freshest Mediterranean dishes? Of course, throughout the Spanish territory there are organizations that protect nature. Thanks to their enthusiasm, the average life expectancy in the country ranks third in the world after Japan and Sweden. And yet, among the 17 Spanish regions, it is Andalusia that should be considered the most suitable place for a tourist who appreciates the cleanliness of the environment.

mistress of the sun

The famous football club Almeria is based in the city of the same name.

The air gates of Almeria (this is one of the provinces that make up Andalusia) are located near the sea. The plane makes a circle over the water, turns around and sits down on a strip stretched parallel to the surf line. The airport is small and brand new. At the entrance hangs a painting by an abstract artist: a coal-black mountain, at the foot of which white spots of houses are stuck. It immediately becomes clear that Almeria is not only seaside resort, but also the foothills of the Sierra Nevada ranges. There are very few flights, and, unlike the arrival halls at other airports, there is no pandemonium. Customs formalities take no more than a quarter of an hour. It's also nice that the airport has an information desk where you can get acquainted with the schedule of local cultural events and get a detailed map of the coast.

At the exit, a bus is waiting for tourists, ready to deliver directly to the place of rest. The road winds between hills, dives into tunnels, crosses over bridges over rivers. To the left and to the right, olive trees are green, brought to these parts by the Greeks three thousand years ago. The production of oil was already established by the Romans, and since then Spain has remained the most “olive” country. There are 305 million trees here and a third of the world's reserves of delicious and healthy oil come from here. So a bottle with amber contents and the inscription on the label Olivia Virgen Extra will be a very good souvenir brought home from Almeria.

fact: 2 cities of the province at once bear names that coincide with personal names: Vera and Felix.

Scientists from the University of Almería (Spain) studied the chemical composition of the caviar of 15 fish species, and found the highest content of omega-3 acids in the caviar of hake, lumpfish and salmon. According to scientists, caviar can be recommended as an excellent source of acids that help lower cholesterol levels and have pronounced antioxidant properties.

Here and there lone araucaria come across - trees brought from Norfolk Island, which is closer to New Zealand than to Spain. Araucaria has successfully taken root on Andalusian soil, although it looks somewhat ridiculous - it really looks like a Christmas tree stuck in the ground with the top of its head down. And nearby grows an Arabian palm - a sacred tree for representatives of the Islamic world. The Caliphate of Cordoba was located on the territory of Andalusia and was the center of the Muslim part of the country. Therefore, the exotic Moorish flavor is still striking here. In the city of Almeria (the main city of the province), the old Arab quarter, the medina, has been preserved, and towers of an Arab fortress with casemates, cellars, barracks and towers still tower on the mountain. From there, from a height of a hundred meters, opens great view. The whole city lies at a glance, and multi-deck ferries plying between Spain and Morocco maneuver in the port.

The road runs along the sea. Fishing ships sway on the shining surface, bright reflections jump across the water. "The mistress of the sun" - so the poets called the province of Almeria. And in fact, in this region of the sun is always enough. On average, there are about 330 sunny days a year, which is more than in any other place in Spain. Almeria is located in the dry zone, where it rains less than in the driest part of Castile. Even if the whole country is flooded with rain, the bright sun shines here. Warm weather sets in at the end of March and lasts until early November. As for the water temperature during bathing season, then it is higher in Almeria than in other resorts. Further towards Malaga, where the Gibraltar flows, the water is usually a few degrees colder.

Flamenco and bullfighting

On the peaks coastal rocks you can see dilapidated watchtowers. In Isian they are called "roquetas", hence the name of the city where the best resorts of Almeria are located - Roquetas de Mar. The transfer from the airport takes about forty minutes, and now typical Andalusian villas with flower pots hung on the walls, with protruding balconies and outbuildings are already appearing. You will not see huge multi-story monsters here.

Naturally, Roquetas de Mar has its own department store, which is not inferior in size to giant shopping malls more major cities. There is also a hall for concerts and city events - "Auditorium". This building is the pride of the alcalde (mayor) of the city - the youthful and vigorous seigneur Gabriel Amat. What can I say, there is something to be proud of. The local architect designed the foyer so that daylight enters until 11pm in the summer. The orchestra pit can rise and fall, and the stage and the hall are blocked off in a matter of seconds by a large metal shield - in case, God forbid, a fire. I can't even believe that such a modern theater could be built in a small provincial town.

It also has its own arena for bullfighting - Plaza de Toros. Of course, some people call bullfighting "a bloodthirsty attraction" and appeal to the conscience of the organizers and participants. But even the Spanish king is unable to cancel one of the country's fundamental traditions. Until now, 16 thousand fights are held during the season, and many tourists want to see this exciting and colorful spectacle. There is such an opportunity in Roquetas de Mar, where fights of one level or another are held on weekends. But first, you should carefully read the poster to make sure that this is exactly a bullfight, and not some kind of novelty with the participation of teenage bulls and young bullfighters who have not yet become famous masters. A real, correct bullfight is an explosion of emotions, chairs flying to the floor and red wine, which the neighbors pour over each other.

The landscapes of the inner part of Almeria are very reminiscent of the American state of Texas: the hills scorched by the sun are cut by the beds of dried up rivers, stone boulders lie on the slopes and tall cacti stick out. Therefore, many directors come to shoot Texas here. The westerns "A Fistful of Dollars", "For a Few Dollars More", "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" were filmed in Almeria. The most famous film set is called "Mini Hollywood", it is located here - near the city of Tabernas, where the first three westerns by Sergio Leone were filmed. Texas: Hollywood State is one of the most famous western filming locations to this day. Of the latest films shot here, it is worth noting, first of all, the series The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles. Just like George Lucas did "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" here. In addition to westerns, this site saw: the shooting of "Lawrence of Arabia", "Condor", "Mad Max" and other films.

The resort part of Roquetas de Mar stretches along the coastline for several kilometers. On the embankment, you can do morning jogging or ride the whole family on a four-wheeled bicycle, rented right there. The road will surely lead to the ancient fortress - the castle of St. Anna with powerful walls and cannons. The sea splashes at the gates, snow-white beauty yachts creak in the bay, local fishermen lay out their nets to dry. On the wide beaches of the resort, dark sand is mixed with shells. A big plus of Roquetas de Mar is that. that there is no road between the beach and the hotels of the first line. The spacious rooms are clean and bright, almost all windows face the sea.

From Texas to Granada

Where else you need to go during your vacation in Roquetas de Mar is Granada. The journey from the coast to this most interesting city will take about three hours, but the experience is worth it. Granada was last stronghold Muslims in Spain, here was the center of Moorish culture. Muslim rulers built the Alhambra - a palace of exquisite beauty with spacious colonnades, magnificent pavilions and luxurious gardens, murmuring fountains and quiet ponds.

Ornamental decorations of the interiors are preserved very carefully. Restorers are working tirelessly so that humanity does not lose this one-of-a-kind monument. A few years ago, when seismographs recorded ground vibrations in Spain, experts became worried about the state of unique complex. The curiosity is that Saudi Arabia- a fairly non-poor country - said that if the original collapses, it will build an exact copy of the Alhambra. Thank God, so far everything is in order. Tourists are allowed to view the complex, wander among the clipped labyrinths of bushes, climb the towers and climb the walls.

While in Granada, it is worth visiting the Cathedral, where the bodies of Queen Juana the Mad and Prince Philip of Burgundy, nicknamed "The Beautiful" for their outstanding appearance, are buried.

To see amazing beautiful panorama of the Achhambra complex against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada ranges, you need to climb the mountain, where the houses of the old Albaicin quarter are scattered. The Gypsy community of Granada has lived here since ancient times, with some families still living in the rock caves. They look like this. An entrance hall in the form of a terrace was attached to the mountain, and the dwelling itself was cut through inside the mountain. Some enterprising people have made taverns out of such caves and show performances of gypsy flamenco there. I must say that the gypsies in Granada are peaceful and not aggressive.

There is, however, one trick that the gypsies use in the city center. They give the traveler a sprig of fragrant romero bush - it is considered in Spain a symbol of family happiness. A twig is given for free, but as soon as you pick it up, a gypsy begins to list everything that awaits a person in the future. Naturally, the fortuneteller speaks Spanish and expects to receive a considerable fee for her services. There are no examples of more serious fraud in Andalusia. Here crime in general is here at zero level. In the land of a luxurious sea coast and olive groves, historical monuments and snow-capped peaks you can rest completely calmly.

The Cape Gata Nijar Nature Reserve is located in the eastern part of the Gulf of Almeria. 45 kilometers of pristine coastline dominate the volcanic landscape, with the highest points in the Sierra de Gata mountain range serving as a parapet for the rain. In its semi-desert landscape, there are shifting dunes, salt marshes and secluded little coves. Most famous beaches here - Genevesis, Monsul and Arco in the town of Los Escullos, as well as Peñon Blanca next to Moor's Isle. The lighthouse of Cape Gata, wedged into the shore next to observation deck Las Sirenas, rises above the southernmost hill of the park. From here, the road starts and leads to San José, a seaside village located in the reserve, which, as a rule, serves as the starting point for many routes.

Las Amoladeras, in the middle of the steppe, has a visitor service and explanation center for natural phenomena.

In the village of San Miguel de Cabo de Gata, a road begins that leads to the seaside village of La Almadraba de Monteleva. Huge mountains of salt pile up near the village. Nearby is the ornithological observatory, from where you can watch a variety of bird species that use the wide reservoir as a resting place during the flight.

Coast

An immense landscape with greenhouses, where fruits and vegetables are grown all year round, covers the coast of the province of Almeria along and across. In the field of Dahlias, in the west of the province of Almería, villages have settled, such as Adra, where there is a very popular sports port in summer. Beaches with excellent sand - Balanegra or Balerma - lead to tourist complexes, among which Almerimar, south of El Ejido, can be distinguished. The salty landscape leads to the village of Roquetas del Mar, where the traveler can see the tower of Santa Ana Castle. Spread along the shore sea village Aguadulce, where in recent decades the desert landscape has been transformed into a white sea of greenhouses.

The east coast or coast of the levant is less populated. Here is the coastal strip of the Cape Gata Reserve with deserted beaches and secluded small bays.

Outside the protected areas is the city of Carboneras, built up with buildings in the North African spirit. The inhabitants of this city enjoy beaches such as Torre Vieja, Martiniques or Algarrobico. The neighborhood with the Tabernas desert creates an original contrast, which is further enhanced by thickets of prickly pear, American agaves and palm trees. Climbing Mount Mojácar belongs to those municipalities in the province of Almería that showed particular respect for the vernacular architecture of the white houses. At the foot, residential complexes grow next to the sea, which also washes the shores of such villages as the seaside and sports Garrucha or Vera, the beaches of which were chosen by the largest Andalusian centers of nudism.

A large number of sunny days made it possible in 1979 to create Europe's largest center for research, development and testing of technologies for the use of solar energy in the Tabernas Desert.

Desert Tabernas

The Sierra de los Filabres mountain range, famous for its Calar Alto astronomical observatory, passes into the Tabernas Desert, the only one of its kind in Europe. This corner of nature has served as a stage for the filming of dozens of films inspired by the distant American West. In the heart of the desert, villages such as Far West still remain, serving as a back curtain in films made by reputable directors. In the depths of this arid region, there are other precious natural sites, such as the Sierra de Alamilla, the last mountain redoubt before the sea, or the karst at Iesos de Sorbas, a natural geological whim.