Almería is known for its dry climate and distance from the centre of the autonomous region. It is a province also know for a wide variety of geographic regions from the temperate hills of the Sierra de Larga in the north of the province to the coast with many beaches made of black volcanic sand around Vera and Mojácar.

Almería capital city is located on the Mediterranean coast and offers year round good weather and great dock facilities for those looking for a bearth.

To the south east is the Natural Park of the Sierra del Cabo de Gata, a natural reserve that has not been extensively built on as it near northern neighbours.

This is an area that retains pristine beaches and offers some great diving for those who like to explore almost untouched natural environments beneath the waves.

To the west of the province lie the Alpujarras of Almería, a continuation of those located in Granada and a place that offers wonderful rural holidays and unparalleled walking in verdant valleys where white villages abound.

More information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Almería_(province)

Routes and Places worth a Visit

The Sierra Larga and Sierra del Gigante, in the north of the province boast spectacular views and some of the most charming villages in which to stay. Of particular note are Los Velezes: the towns of Velez Rubio and Velez Blanco, which has an impressive castle that commands great views.

The Desert of Tabernas and the wild western town used as a backdrop in many of the well-known Spaghetti westerns that, although filmed on a shoestring budget, proved powerfully attractive to mass audiences. Here a flavour of the lawless west can be captured; a must for young and old.

The Natural Park of Cabo de Gata consists of almost untouched beaches and many areas where water sports can be practised. This area has not been built on in scenery-destroying-concrete style, as have neighbouring areas. For this reason it retains a charm that has almost been lost on this extensive coastline and presents visitors with a chance to find some Spanish geo-authenticity.

Important Fiestas

11 January, Romeria in honour of the Virgin of the Sea in Almería capital city.

10th June, Nuestra Señora del Las Angustias in Vera

June in Mojácar. Festival of the Moors and Christians on the 28th August.

May and June in El Ejido. Festival of Theatre, a festival declared of Touristic Interest. 25th April, the Romeria of San Marcos.