Metropolitan Area Almeria

Since 2003 the province of Almería has been divided into seven regions based on their diverse natural, cultural and economic characteristics. One of the most famous is the Comarca Metropolitana de Almería, or Almería Metropolitan Area. Here you’ll find not only the main urban hub of the province but the tourist region of Níjar and the amazing Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Our first stop is the city of Almería. Beaches and landscapes may be top of your list to start with, but the rich culture of the city will soon make you rethink your plans. Make sure to visit the ancient Moorish citadel or Alcazaba, dating back to when the city was first founded. From there, continue to the Plaza Vieja to dive into the heart of the city. The cathedral fortress is one of the great symbols of Almería’s architectural heritage.

For a taste of the city’s cultural heritage, head to the Museo de Almería to explore the vast collection of archaeological artefacts from the cultures of Los Millares and El Argar. If the fine arts are more your thing, head to the Museo de Arte de Almería to admire its collection of paintings. For some history, visit the Civil War Shelters for a moving journey back in time to the conflict that changed Spain forever.

Beach lovers won’t be disappointed either. The urban beach of Playa del Zapillo with its fine sand is a favourite with the locals and just a short walk from the old town. Playa del Palmeral is somewhat more peaceful.

After sampling all that the city has to offer, it’s time to venture a little further afield. The pretty town of Níjar has striking white houses, Arabic water reservoirs, a watchtower and the imposing Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, an exquisite Mudejar-style church.

The jewel in the crown is the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park. This is the largest protected coastal area in Europe and an incredible place where virgin sands are nestled among cliffs against a backdrop of arid volcanic landscapes. You’ll be whisked away to another land at Playa de los Genoveses, Agua Amarga or the secluded Cala de Enmedio where, as well as nude sunbathing, diving is the order of the day. The area also has trails offering the opportunity to enjoy the terrestrial and marine life in this natural park.

Santa Fe de Mondújar is the site of the famed Los Millares archaeological site, and there’s no better place to get an up-close look at the traces of this culture dating back thousands of years.