Travel Tips

The Real Costa del Sol: How Almeria Invented Spain’s Most Famous Coast Name

Published October 17, 2025 | Category: Travel Tips

TL;DR — Few people know that the famous name “Costa del Sol” was born not in Málaga, but in Almeria. In 1928, hotelier Rodolfo Lussnigg coined the term to promote the province’s sunny coastline in La Crónica Meridional newspaper. Decades later, the name migrated west, but Almeria remains the true original Costa del Sol.

The Real Costa del Sol: How Almeria Invented Spain’s Most Famous Coast Name

Table of Contents

The myth of the Costa del Sol
The true origin in Almeria (1928)
Who was Rodolfo Lussnigg?
How Málaga adopted the name
Why Almeria still fits the title
Visiting the original Costa del Sol
Legacy and rediscovery
Sources & verification

1) The myth of the Costa del Sol

Mention “Costa del Sol” today and most travellers immediately think of Málaga — its busy beaches, golf courses and expat enclaves stretching from Marbella to Nerja. The term is so deeply tied to Málaga’s image that few realise its story began somewhere else entirely. In fact, the original Costa del Sol referred to Almeria’s coastline, hundreds of kilometres east, where the Mediterranean first meets the Andalusian desert.

This forgotten piece of history rewrites what many assume about Spanish tourism. Long before package holidays, motorway billboards or British travel brochures, an Austrian-born hotelier in Almeria used the phrase “Costa del Sol” to describe a place of constant sunshine, calm seas and healthful air — decades before Málaga’s tourism board even existed.

2) The true origin in Almeria (1928)

The phrase “Costa del Sol” (Coast of the Sun) first appeared in print on 16 February 1928 in the Almeria newspaper La Crónica Meridional. The man behind the slogan was Rodolfo Lussnigg, a hotel manager and tourism promoter based in the city’s Hotel Simón — one of the grand establishments of its day. His idea was to market the Almeria coast to winter visitors from northern Europe, highlighting its mild weather, cloudless skies and healing climate.

At the time, Almeria was already known for its desert landscape, vineyards and mineral waters, but tourism barely existed. Lussnigg’s campaign, featuring postcards and newspaper adverts under the headline “Welcome to the Costa del Sol,” was one of the first organised efforts to brand a Spanish coastal region for leisure travel. He saw Almeria as the perfect antidote to the grey northern winter — the place where sunshine was not a luxury but a certainty.

3) Who was Rodolfo Lussnigg?

Rodolfo Lussnigg was an Austrian entrepreneur who settled in southern Spain in the early 20th century. Managing Hotel Simón, he became fascinated with Almeria’s potential as a resort destination. Unlike other hoteliers, he focused not only on comfort and service but on **marketing the region itself** — the climate, the geography and the culture.

According to local historians, Lussnigg began using the term “Costa del Sol” in correspondence with travel agents and shipping companies operating between Marseille, Gibraltar and Almeria’s port. He printed promotional materials in German and French and pushed for Almeria to appear in Mediterranean cruise brochures. The idea was simple yet visionary: sell sunshine as a destination in itself.

His hotel advertisements from 1928–1930 emphasised Almeria’s exceptional light and tranquillity: “the land where the sun always shines.” This branding predated the Málaga campaign by more than two decades.

4) How Málaga adopted the name

By the 1930s, the slogan had caught attention beyond Almeria. As Spain’s coastal tourism expanded westward after the Civil War, the Málaga press and entrepreneurs began using “Costa del Sol” to describe their own shoreline. The name fit perfectly with the boom of beach tourism in Torremolinos, Marbella and Fuengirola from the 1950s onward.

While Almeria’s economy turned toward agriculture and mining, Málaga invested heavily in tourism infrastructure and international marketing. As a result, the phrase “Costa del Sol” became globally associated with Málaga, even though it originated in Almeria. Historians often compare it to a brand name that changed hands without anyone noticing — a case of “lost authorship” in regional identity.

In recent years, cultural projects and academic studies have begun to reclaim this story. Almeria’s heritage experts now refer to it proudly as “la verdadera Costa del Sol” — the real Coast of the Sun.

5) Why Almeria still fits the title

If Lussnigg returned today, he would instantly recognise the qualities that inspired his slogan. Almeria remains one of the driest and sunniest places in Europe, with more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year and almost no rainfall from May to September. The light here is legendary — crisp, golden and cinematic — which explains why it became the backdrop for countless film productions in the Tabernas Desert.

Beyond the beaches, Almeria’s mix of desert, sea and mountain scenery offers more diversity in one province than most coasts in Spain. The Cabo de Gata–Níjar Natural Park preserves some of the Mediterranean’s last wild shores, where volcanic cliffs meet turquoise water. Towns like Agua Amarga, Las Negras, San José and Carboneras embody exactly what the original “Coast of the Sun” was meant to represent — unspoiled landscapes, serenity and sun-drenched charm.

6) Visiting the original Costa del Sol

For travellers, rediscovering the **original Costa del Sol** means exploring Almeria’s eastern coastline, from Adra to San Juan de los Terreros. Highlights include:

Cabo de Gata–Níjar: volcanic coves, hiking trails and Europe’s clearest sea views.
Carboneras & Agua Amarga: fishing towns with quiet beaches and excellent seafood.
Almeria city: historic Alcazaba fortress, old port district and Mediterranean tapas culture.
Vera and Mojácar: whitewashed hill towns that blend Moorish architecture with beach life.

Many of these places still reflect the understated tourism that Lussnigg envisioned — more authenticity, fewer crowds. For expats or digital nomads, the area offers mild winters, a low cost of living and strong local communities.

7) Legacy and rediscovery

A century after that 1928 newspaper campaign, Almeria’s claim as the “true Costa del Sol” is being recognised again. In local exhibitions, the story of Rodolfo Lussnigg and his visionary branding is featured as a milestone in Spain’s tourism history. Some cultural guides even propose marking February 16 as “Costa del Sol Day” in honour of Almeria’s original slogan.

Reclaiming the title isn’t about rivalry with Málaga — it’s about restoring credit where it’s due. As historians note, every coastal region in Andalusia has its own identity, but only one gave Spain its most iconic tourism brand. In that sense, Almeria truly is, and always was, the real Coast of the Sun.

8) Sources & verification

Historical references confirm that Rodolfo Lussnigg, manager of Hotel Simón, coined the phrase “Costa del Sol” in Almeria in 1928 (La Crónica Meridional, 16 February 1928). The same fact appears in Wikipedia España, the Malaga.us history of Costa del Sol, and the English Wikipedia entry. Additional details about Hotel Simón and Almeria’s early tourism are cited in municipal archives and regional press reports from 2024.

For more insights into Almeria’s heritage and places to explore, visit our Travel Tips category.

Travel Tips

Almeria Weather Today: Cool Start, Mild Afternoon Across Province

Published December 2, 2025 | Almeria Weather Today

TL;DR: Almeria province starts the day cool and partly cloudy, but sunshine will dominate by midday. Coastal and Levante areas will reach 18–20°C, while the northern inland remains cooler with 14–16°C. No rain and no alerts for today, according to the AEMET.

Cool Morning, Mild Afternoon Across Almeria Province

Almeria begins Tuesday with a fresh and partly cloudy start, but conditions improve quickly. According to the AEMET, the entire province can expect a dry, calm day with a mix of sunshine and light cloud.

Northern inland: Towns such as Vélez-Rubio, María, and Chirivel wake up to 8–11°C and some morning cloud. Skies clear later, bringing highs of 14–16°C.

Poniente & Almeria city: A light-cloud morning with 10–12°C gives way to a sunny afternoon, reaching 19–20°C. No weather alerts are in effect today.

Levante: Vera, Garrucha, Mojacar, and Huércal-Overa begin cloudy at 11–13°C, but sunshine returns by midday with temperatures peaking at 18–20°C.

South coast & Cabo de Gata: A half-cloudy start with 11–12°C develops into a bright, pleasant afternoon along the coast, with highs around 18–19°C.

Overall, Almeria enjoys a soft and stable winter day — ideal for outdoor plans or a calm start indoors. Stronger winds are expected later this week, but today remains settled across all regions.

More local travel advice can be found in our Travel Tips section.

Travel Tips

Tabernas Officially Named One Of Spain’s New Magical Towns

Published November 18, 2025 | Category: Towns & Villages

TL;DR: Tabernas has officially been named one of Spain’s new “Magical Towns” for 2026 — recognised for its desert landscapes, cinema heritage, cultural traditions and unique identity within inland Almería.

Tabernas becomes one of Spain’s new “Magical Towns”

Tabernas, long known for its desert scenery and movie history, has been formally incorporated into the 2026 Pueblos Mágicos de España network. This national programme includes over 171 towns distinguished for their authenticity, natural and cultural value, and ability to offer visitors meaningful, memorable experiences. With this recognition, Tabernas joins the growing list of inland destinations gaining prominence within Spain’s tourism landscape.

Why Tabernas was selected

The Town Council spent several months preparing its nomination, presenting a broad range of strengths: the Tabernas Desert, unique in Europe; its historic architecture, including the parish church and medieval castle; a growing range of rural accommodations; its gastronomy; and the traditions that shape its cultural identity. According to Mayor José Díaz, the distinction “is a strategic boost that positions Tabernas as a unique national destination.”

He highlighted that visitors discover far more than a desert: “They discover hospitality, festivals, culture, and a tourism offer that we continue expanding thanks to the joint effort of the local business community and residents.”

A short history of Tabernas

Tabernas sits in a landscape inhabited since prehistoric times. Archaeological evidence around Terrera Ventura points to Bronze Age settlements, and later Roman and Islamic periods left a visible footprint in the surrounding valleys. During Muslim rule, the position of Tabernas made it strategically valuable, and its hilltop castle served as a defensive point overseeing routes between the coast and inland Granada.

Following the Christian Reconquista, Tabernas developed as a small agricultural centre surrounded by terraced orchards and traditional irrigation channels. In the 20th century, the town became internationally known when film studios chose the desert as the backdrop for more than 300 productions — from spaghetti westerns to international blockbusters. This cinematic legacy still drives a large part of its tourist appeal.

Where the name “Tabernas” comes from

The name Tabernas is widely believed to derive from the Latin tabernae, meaning “inns” or “roadside shelters.” During the Roman period, the area lay on an important inland corridor linking the Mediterranean coast with the Guadix plateau, and resting points for travellers were common. Over centuries, the word evolved into Tabernas, retaining its association with routes, travellers and exchange — a fitting origin for a place shaped by movement, trade and frontier landscapes.

The Tabernas Desert — A unique landscape in Europe

The Desierto de Tabernas is one of the town’s greatest assets. Declared a Natural Area, it is considered the only true semi-arid desert on the European continent. Its terrain — marked by badlands, canyons, dry riverbeds and sculpted hills — has inspired filmmakers, naturalists and photographers for decades.

The desert’s combination of silence, vastness and otherworldly geology is one of the reasons Tabernas has become a reference point for sustainable, nature-based tourism. Visitors often pair the town with hikes, 4×4 routes, birdwatching or visits to film sets located a short distance from the centre.

What joining “Magical Towns” means for Tabernas

Inclusion in the Pueblos Mágicos network is more than an honorary title. It brings tangible benefits:

National promotional campaigns across tourism channels
Inclusion in official visitor catalogues and thematic routes
A “tourist passport” allowing travellers to collect stamps from each Magical Town
Increased visibility for local accommodations, restaurants and small businesses
Support for new investment and sustainable rural development projects

For Almería province, Tabernas’ incorporation reinforces the importance of inland destinations traditionally overshadowed by coastal tourism.

Culture, gastronomy & local traditions

Although often associated with its desert, Tabernas has a strong cultural identity shaped by centuries of rural life. The town celebrates traditional festivals with processions, open-air music and gastronomy rooted in local products.

Local cuisine includes migas almerienses, carne en salsa, almond-based pastries and dishes influenced by both Mediterranean and inland mountain flavours. Bars and family-run restaurants offer tapas that reflect seasonal produce and long-standing culinary habits.

Nature & walking routes around Tabernas

The municipality manages several signposted trails suitable for all levels. Popular routes include:

Rambla de Tabernas — A gentle walk through the desert’s dry riverbeds, ideal for photography and geological observation.
Castillo de Tabernas hike — A short climb offering panoramic views of the town and badlands.
Ruta de los Westerns — A thematic trail connecting filming locations and historic viewpoints.

These routes are promoted by the Town Hall and form part of ongoing efforts to develop sustainable outdoor tourism.

The philosophy behind “Magical Towns”

The organisation describes its towns as “gems” — not found in crowded tourist circuits but in places that preserve identity and authenticity. The project aims to encourage tourism that respects the land, protects heritage and strengthens local communities.

22 new towns join the 2026 network

Tabernas is one of 22 new municipalities incorporated into the network for 2026. Ranging from islands to mountain valleys, these towns represent a mosaic of landscapes and traditions that enrich Spain’s rural tourism offer. For Tabernas, the distinction serves as recognition of its natural uniqueness and growing role as a cultural and nature-based destination.

Official source

For more information, visit the official organisation: pueblosmagicos.es

Planning more inland discoveries? Visit our guide: Most Beautiful Villages in Almería.

Travel Tips

Mojacar Pueblo Guide – Discover Mojacar Pueblo

Published November 17, 2025 | Category: Towns & Villages

TL;DR: Mojacar Pueblo is a white hilltop village with Moorish heritage, iconic viewpoints and labyrinth streets filled with flowers. A must-visit for sunsets, ceramics, tapas terraces and cultural events all year round. It is officially listed among Andalusia’s “Pueblos con Encanto”. Mojacar Pueblo is officially one of Almeria’s most beautiful villages.

Mojacar Pueblo whitewashed street with flowers and Mediterranean sunlight

Mojacar Pueblo Guide — Whitewashed Viewpoints, Moorish History & Timeless Streets

Mojacar Pueblo is one of the most recognisable villages in Almeria. Perched on a steep hill overlooking the Mediterranean, the Pueblo blends whitewashed Andalusian architecture, Moorish alleyways, craft shops and some of the best panoramic viewpoints on the Levante coast. It is officially listed among Andalusia’s “Pueblos con Encanto” and remains a favourite stop for photographers, hikers and travellers seeking culture and atmosphere.

Geography & Setting

Mojacar Pueblo rises almost 200 metres above sea level, forming a natural lookout over the Sierra Cabrera and the coastline stretching from Garrucha to Carboneras. Its compact layout, stepped alleys and shaded courtyards reflect centuries of adaptation to mountain terrain and summer heat. From the main square, the Mediterranean Sea appears framed between rooftops — a signature view of the village.

History — From Moorish Roots to Modern Village

The village traces its origins to ancient settlements around the Sierra, but Mojacar’s strongest identity comes from its Moorish past. For centuries it was part of the Nasrid defensive chain, and the present-day street layout still follows the old medina structure. After the Christian reconquest, the Pueblo consolidated around the Plaza del Parterre, the Church of Santa María (built in the 16th century) and several fortified houses that still define the skyline.

Today, Mojacar Pueblo is a protected heritage site, with numerous restored façades, tiled signs and Arab-influenced arches marking the original gates of the medina.

What to See & Do in Mojacar Pueblo

Mirador Plaza Nueva: The most iconic viewpoint, with sweeping views over the valley, coastline and Sierra Cabrera.
Mirador del Castillo: A panoramic terrace at the highest point of the village.
Santa María Church: A fortress-church built on the foundations of the old mosque.
Porta de la Ciudad / City Gate: Remnant of the old Moorish entrance.
Labyrinth Streets: Wander through narrow alleys decorated with bougainvillea, pottery and local artisan shops.
Ceramics & Crafts: Mojacar is known for pottery, tiles, jewellery and traditional indalos.

Official municipal information: Ayuntamiento de Mojacar.

Hiking & Outdoor

The Pueblo is a gateway to the lower slopes of Sierra Cabrera, offering short panoramic trails and longer circular routes linking Mojacar, Turre and the mountain villages. Expect steep terrain, sandstone formations and excellent sunrise/sunset conditions.

Festivals & Cultural Life

Mojacar’s festival calendar is one of the most active on the Levante coast. Key events:

Festividad de San Agustín (August): Music, parades and cultural activities around the Pueblo.
Moors & Christians (June): The largest annual celebration — colourful costumes, medieval-style parades and reenactments honouring Mojacar’s Moorish and Christian heritage.
Semana Santa: Processions through the narrow streets.

For province-wide festivity dates, including Mojacar’s local holidays, visit our guide: Almeria Local Holidays 2026.

Bars, Food & Local Atmosphere

Warm Andalusian tapas terrace at night — Mojacar Pueblo atmosphere

Mojacar Pueblo has a lively gastronomic scene. Expect tapas terraces with sea views, small wine bars on quiet alleys, and restaurants serving traditional Almerian dishes: migas, gurullos, roasted meats, fresh vegetables and local olive oils. Evening light turns the whole village golden — one of the best sunset spots in the province.

Local Markets (Mercadillos)

Weekly General Market (Mercadillo Generalista)

Day: Wednesday (non-holiday)
Time: 9:00 – 14:00
Location: Parking Plaza Rey Alabez, 04638 Mojácar — next to the football field
Stalls: ~50
Products: Fresh fruit and vegetables, clothing, footwear, bags, belts, household goods, plants and flowers, cheeses, cold cuts, dried fruits, nuts, pickles and sweets.

This is Mojacar’s main weekly street market and one of the largest in the Levante area, attracting both residents and visitors.

Sunday Antiques & Second-Hand Market (Rastro de Antigüedades)

Day: Sunday (all year)
Time: 9:00 – 14:00
Location: At the village entrance, next to the Centro de Usos Múltiples
Stalls: ~50
Type: Second-hand, antiques, collectibles

This weekly rastro is popular for vintage items, books, homeware, collectibles and occasional artisan pieces — a lively Sunday plan for locals and visitors.

Getting There

By car: 10 minutes from Mojacar Playa; 15 minutes from Garrucha; 1 hour from Almeria city via A-7.
Parking: Large car park at the entrance of the Pueblo, with escalators and lifts into the historic centre.
Public transport: Regular bus service connects Mojacar Playa ↔ Mojacar Pueblo ↔ Garrucha.

Practical Information — Mojacar Pueblo

Town Hall (Ayuntamiento de Mojácar): Plaza del Ayuntamiento, 1 —
📞 950 615 009 —
mojacar.es
Tourist Office (Oficina de Turismo): Plaza Nueva —
📞 950 478 646 —
Tourism info
Local Police (Policía Local): Calle Horno —
📞 600 472 000 / 950 472 000
Medical Centre – Mojácar Pueblo (Consultorio Médico):
Avenida de París, 35, 04638 Mojácar —
📞 950 451 601
Medical Centre – Mojácar Playa:
Avenida de Andalucía, 20, Mojácar Playa —
📞 950 451 630
Pharmacies (Farmacias):
- Farmacia Mojácar Pueblo — Plaza del Ayuntamiento — 📞 950 478 019
- Farmacia Mojácar Playa — Av. del Mediterráneo, 123 — 📞 950 478 372
Emergency Numbers (Spain-wide):
112 (General) · 061 (Health Emergencies) · 062 (Guardia Civil) · 091 (National Police)

Public Services & Useful Facilities

Centro de Usos Múltiples (Multi-Use Centre):
Entrance of Mojácar Pueblo — hosts the Sunday antiques market and community events.
Public Library (Biblioteca Municipal):
Plaza Nueva —
📞 950 615 009 (ext. cultural services)
Sports Centre (Pabellón Deportivo Municipal):
Calle Luis Vives —
📞 950 615 009 —
Offers gym, indoor courts and local sports leagues.
Municipal Swimming Pool:
Adjacent to the sports centre — seasonal timetable.
Recycling & Waste Point (Punto Limpio):
Camino del Palmeral —
Schedule varies by season (see mojacar.es → Medio Ambiente).
Bus Services (Autobuses Alsina Graells):
Stops at Mojácar Pueblo & Mojácar Playa —
Routes to Garrucha, Vera, Carboneras, Almería.

Timetables: alsa.es

For more white villages, inland routes and local heritage guides, visit our Travel Tips category.

Travel Tips

Laujar de Andarax Guide. Discover Laujar de Andarax

Published November 17, 2025 | Category: Towns & Villages

TL;DR: Laujar de Andarax is a historic Alpujarra village at the headwaters of the Andarax River — chestnut and pine forests, classic Sierra Nevada hiking routes, wine traditions, and lively local fiestas around its Plaza Mayor.

Laujar de Andarax Guide. History, Nature & Local Festivals

Often described as one of the gateways to the Alpujarra of Almeria, Laujar de Andarax sits in a green basin at the headwaters of the Andarax River. White houses step up the hillside, backed by the southern slopes of the Sierra Nevada and surrounded by orchards, vineyards and chestnut groves. It is a natural base for hiking, village-to-village day trips and slow travel weekends focused on food, wine and mountain scenery.

Geography & Setting

Laujar de Andarax lies in the eastern Alpujarra, in the upper Andarax valley, at around 900 metres above sea level. From here the river begins its long journey toward the coast, while forest tracks climb into the Sierra Nevada above. The municipality’s territory includes fertile river terraces, terraced farmland and extensive pine and chestnut woods, making it noticeably greener and cooler than the coastal plain in summer. The village is compact, centred on the Plaza Mayor de las Alpujarras and its historic streets.

History — From Moorish Past to Alpujarra Capital

Like many Alpujarra villages, Laujar has deep roots in the Muslim period, when terraced agriculture and irrigation channels shaped the landscape. The Christian repopulation after the 16th-century Morisco rebellion consolidated today’s urban layout around churches, plazas and small craft workshops. Over time, Laujar became an administrative and symbolic centre of the Alpujarra Almeriense, with a local economy based on agriculture (vineyards, olives, fruit), forestry and small-scale services. Visitors today still sense this layered history in the narrow streets, traditional architecture and surviving water infrastructure.

What to See & Do

Plaza Mayor de las Alpujarras: The main square is the social heart of Laujar, lined with cafés and municipal buildings. It is a good starting point for exploring the old quarter and sitting out in the evening.
Historic Quarter: Wander through sloping streets with whitewashed façades, small squares and viewpoints over the valley. Look out for fountains, traditional doorways and remains of old defensive structures.
Area Recreativa El Nacimiento: Just outside the village, this riverside recreation area marks one of the most popular access points to local walking routes, with picnic tables, shade and easy family paths.
Local Churches & Heritage: The parish church and smaller hermitages reflect Laujar’s post-Reconquista history. Check the municipal tourism pages for updated opening times and guided visit options.

For visitor information, walking ideas and guided visit details, see the official municipal tourism section: Ayuntamiento de Laujar de Andarax — Turismo.

Local Festivals & Holidays

Laujar de Andarax has a full calendar of fiestas and religious celebrations typical of the Alpujarra. Expect summer festivities with open-air music, processions, children’s activities and food stalls, often centred on the Plaza Mayor and nearby streets. Autumn and harvest-time events highlight local wine and seasonal produce, while winter and Easter bring more traditional religious ceremonies.

Exact días festivos locales and festival dates can vary each year, so it is always best to confirm via official municipal channels or local noticeboards.

For a province-wide overview of upcoming festivities and public holidays, check the official Almeria Local Holidays 2026 calendar, which includes all major events across the region.

Gastronomy

Food in Laujar de Andarax is firmly rooted in mountain and valley ingredients: olive oil, pulses, garden vegetables, cured meats and hearty stews. Typical dishes echo those of the wider Alpujarra: migas with seasonal toppings, slow-cooked meats, soups enriched with local vegetables and simple grilled dishes. The municipality also has a tradition of local wines and grape products, with small bodegas and producers in the surrounding countryside. Almond-based pastries and sweets appear frequently in bakeries and at fiesta time.

Local Markets

Mercadillo de Laujar de Andarax: Twice a month, Laujar hosts a small but lively general market on the Plaza Mayor.

Days: 3rd and 17th of each month
Type: General market (mercadillo generalista)
Location: Plaza Mayor, town centre
Opening hours: 09:00 – 14:00
Number of stalls: Around 10

The market offers a mix of fresh produce, clothing, household goods, seasonal items, and local products. It’s a good moment to experience everyday village life while supporting small vendors from the Alpujarra of Almeria.

Looking for markets across the province? Explore our guides to popular weekly markets in Almeria city, Garrucha, Roquetas de Mar, Mojacar, and Vera.

Nature & Outdoor

Laujar is one of the best bases in the province for accessible Sierra Nevada walking routes. Several signed paths start near the village and the El Nacimiento recreation area, offering everything from family walks to more demanding outings.

PR-A 35 Sendero Monterrey: A circular route through reforested pine woods with classic views over the Andarax valley and the Sierra de Gádor beyond. Expect moderate gradients and varied scenery.
Senda de la Hidroeléctrica (PR-A 36): A well-known path following an old hydroelectric line, combining forest tracks, riverside sections and interpretive panels about the area’s natural and industrial heritage.
Sendero del Aguadero (PR-A 37): Starting near the El Nacimiento area, this route offers a mix of woodland, river scenery and viewpoints over Laujar and the surrounding mountains.

Always check current route conditions, weather forecasts and any local notices before heading out. The municipal website and local tourism office provide updated information on paths and recommended itineraries.

Getting There

By car: Laujar de Andarax is roughly 1 hour–1 hour 15 minutes from Almeria city, typically via the A-92 inland motorway and regional roads through the Andarax valley. It combines well with nearby villages such as Fondón, Padules or Almócita for a full-day excursion across the Alpujarra Almeriense.
Public transport: Regional bus services connect Laujar with other valley towns and, on some schedules, with Almeria. Timetables can change seasonally; always check current information before travelling.
Parking: Street parking is generally available around the village entrances and near the centre. Around El Nacimiento and other recreational areas, use designated parking zones and respect local signage.

Practical Information — Laujar de Andarax

Town Hall (Ayuntamiento de Laujar de Andarax): Plaza Mayor de las Alpujarras, 9 — 04470 Laujar de Andarax (Almeria) — 📞 950 513 103 — laujardeandarax.es
Tourism & local services: See the “Turismo”, “Monumentos”, “Gastronomía” and “Rutas y Senderismo” sections on the official website for up-to-date information, maps and contacts.
Health & pharmacies: Basic health services and pharmacy information are published via municipal and provincial channels; confirm current details locally.
Emergency (Spain-wide): 112 (General) · 061 (Medical) · 062 (Guardia Civil) · 091 (National Police)

For more villages like this, explore our Travel Tips category — from high Alpujarra viewpoints to desert-edge hamlets in the interior of Almeria.