Isleta del Moro in Cabo de Gata, Almería

Almería: quiet, unspoilt coves and beaches

Cabo de Gata-Níjar natural paradise

The unspoilt beaches of Almería (Andalusia) are the preferred destination of Spaniards looking to disconnect – and this is not a coincidence. The coastline of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar land and sea-based park is paradise for those looking to escape the noise and beaches full of people. And it’s because people feel like being by themselves sometimes, or enjoying time in their own company. And this is still possible on the Almería coast.

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Cabo de Gata

Travel to a biosphere reserve

Relax in a remote cove bathed in transparent water, horse ride along the cliffs, go into the Mediterranean forest, discover the cinematographic Rodalquilar valley, and much more. These are just some of the ideas to slow down time in the easternmost province of Andalusia. The Cabo de Gata-Níjar nature reserve, which was declared a biosphere reserve in 1997, is the best-preserved treasure in Almería. Fans of the original destinations would appreciate its unaltered nature which is protected from urban excess and also equipped with the necessary services to enjoy an environmentally friendly holiday.

From Carboneras to Cabo de Gata

It is worth visiting Spain’s coastal region to understand why it provides an extra dose of tranquillity and relaxation. The wild and quiet beaches (Mónsul, Los Genoveses, Las Salinas, Cala del Plomo, Cala de Enmedio, etc.) are close to other urban beaches (San José, Agua Amarga, La Almadraba…) that are busier in July and August. The park's route from north to south starts in Carboneras and ends in San Miguel de Cabo de Gata, passing through towns such as: Agua Amarga, Fernán Pérez, Las Negras, Rodalquilar, Isleta del Moro and San José. The inspiring nature reserve includes amazing viewpoints such as Arrecife de las Sirenas and Amatista; and there are ideal spots for birdwatching such as Salinas del Cabo de Gata, and stunning walks along volcanic cliffs to explore.

Sustainable accommodation and leisure

Environmental awareness is very clear in most of the leisure activities and accommodation options in Cabo de Gata-Níjar. There are plenty of options when choosing accommodation. Small, charming hotels, rural houses that are part of the landscape, country houses converted into ecological farms, hostels in typical fishing houses, camp sites, and so on. The location will also depend on whether you prefer to be in a more populated area or in remote accommodation surrounded by miles of nature.

The coast on horseback or quad bikes

Horse riding along the cliffs, the old fortresses and the edge of the most emblematic beaches in the nature reserve could be an experience to make your trip truly unique. If you like, you can take a journey with a specialised guide to avoid getting lost, and above all to acquire the necessary technical skills if you have little experience of horse riding. The mountain bike and quad bike routes are other alternatives. For the latter, it is recommended to fully respect the designated paths so as not to damage the peaceful atmosphere in this large natural refuge that is bathed by the Mediterranean Sea.