Published May 9, 2025 | Category: Travel Tips

Looking for unforgettable things to do in Almería? This guide covers beaches, mountains, the Alpujarra, the Tabernas Desert, and Los Vélez. A complete mix of outdoor adventure, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re planning a full itinerary or a short visit, this guide brings together the most essential things to do in Almería, from coastal gems to inland adventures.

Things to Do in Almería

• 1. Enjoy the Beaches of Cabo de Gata
• 2. Try Watersports in Almería City
• 3. Go Camping in Nature Reserves
• 4. Explore the Tabernas Desert
• 5. Visit a Western Film Set
• 6. Hike the Alpujarra Almeriense
• 7. Cycle the Puerto de la Ragua
• 8. Discover Los Vélez Region
• 9. Visit Castles and Churches
• 10. Join Local Festivals
• 11. Walk Natural Parks
• 12. Stargaze in the Desert

1. Enjoy the Beaches of Cabo de Gata

Start with the iconic Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve features untouched beaches like Playa de los Genoveses and Playa de Mónsul. It’s a perfect escape for sunbathing, snorkeling, or hiking along dramatic volcanic cliffs. You can also explore the old salt flats and the lighthouse at Cabo de Gata village, offering sweeping sea views. The natural terrain ensures a peaceful setting far removed from tourist crowds.

2. Try Watersports in Almería City

In the capital, you’ll find a range of watersports such as paddleboarding, sailing, and sea kayaking. Check with the Andalusian Port Authority for facilities and rentals at the city marina. The calm conditions and relatively warm sea make this an excellent place for beginners. During summer, guided excursions and equipment rentals are available right along the central beach promenade.

3. Go Camping in Nature Reserves

Campers love Camping Los Escullos near San José for its proximity to the sea, and Camping Trevélez in the Alpujarra for high-altitude serenity. Both offer direct access to hiking trails and stunning landscapes. Many campsites also include modern facilities like swimming pools, small restaurants, and bike rentals. Wild camping is restricted, but regulated natural camping zones allow an immersive outdoor experience with starry skies and minimal light pollution.

4. Explore the Tabernas Desert

Europe’s only true desert, Tabernas offers dramatic arid landscapes, guided 4×4 safaris, and hiking trails through badlands and canyons. Visit the Diputación de Almería for official maps and conservation info. The desert’s geological formations are also popular among geologists and nature photographers. For a deeper connection to the environment, sunrise hikes and sunset walks offer unforgettable moments among towering rock faces and silence.

5. Visit a Western Film Set

Tabernas also hosts the iconic Oasys Mini Hollywood, Fort Bravo, and Western Leone — former film sets turned theme parks with shows, saloons, and cowboy reenactments. These locations were famously used in Sergio Leone’s spaghetti westerns and now offer museums, swimming areas, and reenactment shows for families. Some sites include horse-riding experiences, themed restaurants, and kids’ play zones that blend fun with cinematic history.

6. Hike the Alpujarra Almeriense

The lesser-known part of the Alpujarra, on the Almería side, offers whitewashed villages like Laujar de Andarax, Padules, and Bayárcal. Walk the GR-142 trail or explore shorter circular routes through chestnut forests and rivers. These villages offer a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life, with cobbled streets, local artisans, and historic fountains. Trails vary in difficulty and length, making the region accessible to casual walkers and experienced hikers alike.

7. Cycle the Puerto de la Ragua

Puerto de la Ragua, at over 2,000 meters, is a popular challenge for road cyclists and mountain bikers alike. The route is scenic and links the Alpujarra with the north side of the Sierra Nevada. With steep ascents and long winding descents, it’s ideal for training and panoramic rides. The cooler mountain air also makes it a favorite escape during summer heat.

8. Discover Los Vélez Region

In the far north lies the Los Vélez area, home to Vélez-Blanco, Vélez-Rubio, María and Chirivel. Hike the Sierra María-Los Vélez Natural Park, visit archaeological caves like Cueva de los Letreros, and enjoy rural hospitality in quiet villages. The natural park includes dense pine forests, rare orchids, and scenic picnic areas. Towns like Vélez-Blanco charm visitors with elegant plazas, historical buildings, and locally produced olive oil and cheese.

9. Visit Castles and Churches

Exploring the architectural history of the region is one of the most rewarding things to do in Almería. Don’t miss the Castillo de los Fajardo in Vélez-Blanco, a Renaissance masterpiece. Other highlights include the Church of the Incarnation in Vélez-Rubio and Moorish remains scattered across the province. The Alcazaba of Almería, one of the largest Moorish fortresses in Spain, offers panoramic views of the city and sea. Inside, restored gardens and archaeological zones give insight into Islamic-era architecture and urban life.

10. Join Local Festivals

Experiencing traditional celebrations is one of the most joyful things to do in Almería. Attend the Renaissance & Baroque Music Festival in Vélez-Blanco or local village fiestas, grape harvests, and religious processions. Dates vary by location, so check with the Almería Tourism Board. Traditional celebrations often include flamenco performances, bull runs, artisan markets, and fireworks — a true immersion into Andalusian spirit and community life.

11. Walk Natural Parks

Besides Cabo de Gata and Los Vélez, Almería offers smaller reserves like Karst en Yesos de Sorbas (known for its caves), and Sierra de Baza, shared with Granada province. These areas are ideal for nature walks and wildlife spotting. In Sorbas, guided spelunking tours allow visitors to explore underground corridors, crystal formations, and ancient gypsum chambers with professional gear and guidance.

12. Stargaze in the Desert

Thanks to low light pollution, the Tabernas Desert is perfect for astronomy. Guided stargazing sessions are offered by local astronomy groups — check announcements on the provincial website. Events often include telescope use, constellation stories, and seasonal observations like meteor showers or lunar eclipses. It’s a contemplative, almost surreal way to connect with the vastness of Almería’s open skies.

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