Almeria, the capital of Almeria Province, is situated in Andalusia in the south east of Spain. Being the hottest and the driest region of Europe, an Almeria holiday promises daylong sunshine. It is now one of Spain’s most popular destinations. There is evidence that a settlement existed in Almeria since the Bronze Age, but the town and port were founded by the Phoenicians. Many invaders followed and settled here including the Romans and the Moors. In the fifteenth century the Catholic kings took the land and the Moors were expelled. The wide variety of ancient remains and architectural styles are a reflection of Almeria’s fascinating history.
There are many reasons for holidaying in Almeria. It has so many interesting things to see both in and around the town and also has good beaches within the area.
Almeria appeals to a wide variety of people. Families will find their children will enjoy the beaches, young people will find many lively bars to keep them entertained through to the small hours, while those looking for a combination of beach and culture will not be disappointed.
Although Almeria is a year round holiday destination, the summer months are the most popular time to go, with guaranteed sunshine and warm seas. Many visitors however, enjoy escaping from the dark dreary days of a typical British winter to the welcoming coast of southern Spain.
Almeria lies in Europe’s most arid region with low barren mountains behind. On top of the mountains is Alcazaba, an Arab fortress dating from the tenth century. It was large enough to hold twenty thousand men.
Almeria is now a modern city with an historic heart. It is a major ferry port and has excursions to North Africa. There is also a fishing port and a sports marina. The cathedral founded in 1524 looks more like a fortress than a church because it had to protect itself from the Berber pirates who were rampant at that time. In the cave quarter you will find the interesting Barrio de la Chanca. Here small square houses are dug into the soft cliffs where protection is given from the heat of the arid plains. There are many fine stately homes including the 17th century Casa de los Puche in the Musalla district. Stroll along La Rambla boulevard and rest in the shade of the many squares with their gardens and children’s play areas.
There are a number of beaches including San Miguel, awarded the blue flag and Nueva Almeria, a beach with calm waters ideal for water sports. In nearby Aguadulce, with its palm lined promenade there is a very popular family beach.
Tabernas, sixteen miles from Almeria city is the village where many of the famous westerns were made because the landscape resembles the old Wild West. The film lots have been developed into small theme parks and a children’s zoo.
Although there are many lively bars in Almeria, nightlife is fairly understated with much of the evening entertainment being hotel based
Almeria town has many designer and specialist shops as well as the usual array of gift and souvenir shops. The market in Plaza Vieja will delight visitors with its variety of goods. The nearby village of Nijar with its pottery workshops and its rugs and bedspreads made from rags is certainly worth a visit.
As expected fish dishes abound in Almeria with its fishermen landing their fresh catch daily. An excellent fish restaurant where you can enjoy your meal overlooking the sea is the Bella Rincon. There are tapas bars and restaurants to suit all tastes and pockets.
