Costa Almeria
Almeria has a low population compared to the other Costas and its geographical splendor ranges from the vista of sand dunes and glorious beaches to the arid desert region in the interior.
With the Tabernas Desert on one side and the Mediterranean on the other, Almeria has unrivalled average hours of sunshine and high temperatures all year round.
Almeria benefits from landscape control policies and consequently doesn't suffer from massed high rise apartments, office blocks or hotels.
The spaghetti western A Fistfull of Dollars was shot in Almeria as well as scenes from Lawrence of Arabia, Treasure Island and Indiana Jones. In the 70's the Almerian landscapes formed the backdrop for many more westerns.
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Vera
Vera is a prosperous town that has many shops selling local handicrafts. The tourism to the area is increasing due to its tempting traditional cuisine. There are popular restaurants, as well as the traditional Spanish "Tapas" (small rations).
Vera has some superb sandy beaches and the local golf courses are proving popular with all ages. The "Valle del Este" can be found near to Vera and this is one of the biggest golf clubs on the Almería coast.
In Vera you will find a 16th century church and hospital, the church "La Encarnación" and the Royal Hospital "San Agustín". Also of interest are the monastery "La Victoria", the chapel "Espirítu Santo",the historic town museum and the fountain called "Cuatro Caños". Nearby, if you fancy making a splash, is the water park "Parque Aquatico Vera".
Vera also has several naturist beaches nearby.
Garrucha
Garrucha was created around a fishing port which in turn evolved around a tower used for protection against pirates, the "Torre de la Garrucha". This picturesque fishing port has fantastic fish restaurants situated along its marina and tree lined seafront promenade, "the Malecón" .
Garrucha is a natural port and is capable of lending shelter to large ships. It thus was able to benefit from its trade in lead, silver, copper, iron, esparto grass, fruit and marble.
Nearby you have a tennis courts, golf courses and selection of water sports. Relax in one of the many beach bars and watch the glorious sunset behind the Sierra Cabrera mountains.
Garrucha is a great place to attend a fiesta as they hold one every month of the year except for October and November.
Mojacar
Mojacar retains its Moorish heritage in its architecture. A maze of narrow winding cobbled streets and stairways climbing up and down the steep mountainside between the small whitewashed houses this ancient Moorish village is full of artisans shops and artistic life.
Due to its location on the side of a hill its restaurants and cafe's have terraces that offer stunning view over the sparkling Mediterranean and the beaches, which stretch for more than 5km.
Places of interest in Mojácar include the Plaza Nueva, which provides a vantage point over the Valle de las Pirámides (Pyramid Valley) and the Church of Santa María, which was originally built as a fortress. Other places of note are the Plaza de Parterre, Calle Jazmín, Calle Estación Vieja, the Arrabal (Jewish Quarter) and the Luciana arch.
Mojacar itself may present problems for people with limited mobility because of its steep windy streets. Mojacar Playa on the other hand lies at the foot of the hill and is a long stretch of residential properties and amenities.
Almeria
Almería flourished from the 13th to the 15th cent. as one of the most important ports of the Caliphate of Cordoba. It has been influenced throughout history by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs and Christians and evidence of this rich history can be found throughout the city.
Overlooking the city is an Arab fortress, which was built in the 10th century. It fell to the Christians in 1489. The narrow streets with whitewashed facades also reflect the Arab influence. The cathedral of Almeria was built to double as a fortress to help protect the city against Berber raiders and its architecture displays both gothic and renaissance influence.
In addition to history and culture, Almería offers beaches, mountain and coastal nature reserves.
