Published December 9, 2025 | Category: Activities & Attractions

Wide sands, calm waters, and some of the most iconic coastal scenery in Cabo de Gata – welcome to Playa de los Genoveses, a local favourite near San Jose.

Beach Essentials at a Glance

• Beach type: Large sandy bay with gentle waves, ideal for swimming and family days out.
• Location: Inside Cabo de Gata–Nijar Natural Park, just 2 km southwest of San Jose.
• Access: Mostly flat dirt road and short paths; no steep descent like other wild beaches.
• Walking difficulty: Easy to moderate; flip-flops okay in summer, but sturdy shoes recommended.
• Facilities: No bars, shops or shade on the beach itself – pack water and essentials.
• Lifeguards: Only on some peak-season days.
• Best for: Families, swimmers, photographers, picnics and long walks.
• Parking: Paid parking in summer (€5–10). Free outside peak season.

Playa de los Genoveses: The Ultimate Guide to One of Almeria’s Most Loved Beaches

Overview & Location

Playa de los Genoveses is a wide, horseshoe-shaped bay with golden sand and calm, shallow waters. It sits within the protected Cabo de Gata–Nijar Natural Park and is surrounded by dunes, low hills and untouched nature.

The vibe is relaxed and natural: no concrete, no music bars, no sunbed rows – just pure Mediterranean coastline.

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Name Meaning & History

The name “Genoveses” recalls a historical episode: Genoese troops landed here in 1147 to help support the siege of Almeria. The name remains as a reminder of this unexpected Mediterranean alliance.

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Nature & Landscape

The beach is bordered by rolling sand dunes and protected native plants such as pitas and esparto grass. Its views of the volcanic headland of Cerro de la Testa make it a favourite spot for photographers and walkers.

Underwater, Posidonia meadows help keep the water exceptionally clear – perfect for swimming and snorkelling beneath the surface.

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Access & Parking

Reaching the beach is simple compared to other wild beaches in the park:

• By car: Follow the dirt road southwest from San Jose (signed during peak season).
• By foot: A scenic 25–35 minute walk from San Jose via coastal paths and dunes.

Parking rules vary by season. In summer, access may be controlled by shuttle buses to protect the natural environment. Arrive early for easier access and cooler walks.

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Recognition & Popularity

Playa de los Genoveses is often listed among Andalusia’s top beaches thanks to its vast sandy space and calm water. Despite the popularity, it keeps its untouched character thanks to strict park protections.

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Practical Tips

• When to visit: May, June and September offer perfect weather without peak crowds.
• What to bring: Water, snacks, sun protection and a beach umbrella if staying long.
• Footwear: Flip-flops are fine but sturdy shoes help on paths and to viewpoints.
• Wildlife: Respect dune vegetation – stay on marked paths.

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Why Visit?

Playa de los Genoveses is the perfect balance: wild nature without difficult access. Spend hours walking its shoreline, swimming in clear water and enjoying the space to relax.

• Long beach walks
• Swimming and family-friendly paddling
• Photography and viewpoints

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Nearby Villages & What to Do

The nearby village of San Jose is the perfect base for beach days. You will find cafes, restaurants and shops for supplies before heading out.

• San Jose restaurants: Enjoy fresh seafood after your day on the sand.
• Viewpoints: Short walks around the headlands offer stunning sunset photography.
• Explore more beaches: From Genoveses, you can continue to Monsul on foot or by shuttle buses in summer.

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Discover more bays and coves in the protected park in our Activities & Attractions section, or explore the best coastal villages in Towns & Villages.

*All details verified as of December 2025. Access and services may vary by season.*

Published December 1, 2025 | Category: Events

TL;DR: Las Norias has welcomed the Christmas season with its traditional festive market, featuring local associations, crafts, children’s activities and the long-awaited visit of Santa Claus.

Las Norias Opens the Christmas Season with Its Traditional Festive Market

The community of Las Norias, in the municipality of El Ejido, is officially embracing the Christmas season with the celebration of its long-standing festive market. Organised for more than a decade by the Junta Local de Las Norias, with support from the Asociación Cultural Activa Las Norias de Daza, the event transforms the Centro de Usos Múltiples into a lively meeting point for neighbours and visitors alike.

Throughout the day, local associations, AMPAs and small businesses are showcasing handmade decorations, Christmas accessories and traditional seasonal sweets, including mantecados, roscos and turrones. For many groups, the market is also an important opportunity to raise funds that help sustain their activities during the rest of the year.

Representatives from the municipality, including the councillor for Education and Youth, have visited the market to speak with exhibitors and discover this year’s proposals. According to the Ayuntamiento de El Ejido, the programme includes a wide range of activities such as a Christmas wreath workshop led by Alba Floristería, face painting, balloon modelling, a children’s zumba show and a performance by the parish choir of Santa María del Águila scheduled for the afternoon.

One of the most anticipated moments for the youngest visitors has been the arrival of Santa Claus, who has been collecting letters and taking photos with families throughout the day. The festive market will remain open without interruption until 19:00, offering residents a place to enjoy the atmosphere and come together as the holiday season begins.

For more upcoming events and celebrations across Almeria, visit our Events section.

Published November 28, 2025 | Category: Events

TL;DR: The San Juan de los Terreros Slalom 2025 takes place this Saturday with 35 drivers competing in a decisive round of the Andalusian Slalom Championship on a 1,000-metre asphalt circuit.

San Juan de los Terreros Gears Up for a High-Stakes Slalom 2025

Motorsport returns to San Juan de los Terreros this weekend with the eagerly awaited Terreros Slalom 2025, the penultimate round of the Andalusian Slalom Championship. The coastal town is preparing for an intense afternoon of racing on a fast 1,000-metre circuit set up next to La Pinada Park, where every second could influence this year’s title fight.

The event, organised by the Balcón del Almanzora Motor Club, brings together 35 drivers across multiple categories, including juniors and women competitors. As one of the most followed stops on the calendar, the Terreros Slalom is also part of the 2025 Almería Provincial Council Cup, adding even more weight to this weekend’s results.

A Crucial Moment in the Championship

The standings arrive in Terreros extremely tight. Francisco Javier del Buey leads with 64 points thanks to a season of consistent performance, followed closely by Luis Miguel Collantes on 61 points. Third-placed Francisco J. Mena sits on 53 points and remains mathematically in the fight. With the top competitors separated by just a few points, the Terreros Slalom is expected to play a defining role in the championship’s outcome.

Event Schedule

10:30 – Documentation & Administrative Checks – Dulche Gusto Café
11:00 – Technical Checks
11:30 – Publication of Authorised Vehicles
11:30 – Circuit Opening & Track Reconnaissance
11:45 – Race Director’s Briefing – Dulche Gusto Café
12:15 – Qualifying Heats – 1,000 m Asphalt Circuit
Following – Final Checks (if required) – Parc Fermé
Following – Publication of Official Results
Following – Awards & Trophy Ceremony – Dulche Gusto Café

Free Entry and a Family-Friendly Atmosphere

The Terreros Slalom will showcase touring cars, buggies and car-cross vehicles, all supervised by certified officials and supported by a full safety and medical team. Every participant will receive a trophy, with additional awards for Divisions 1 and 2, as well as the Scratch, Junior and Women’s categories.

With the Andalusian championship nearing its conclusion and gaps between the favourites tighter than ever, Saturday promises to be one of the most exciting racing days of the year for motorsport fans in the Almanzora and Levante regions.

Official event details and updates are available on the Ayuntamiento de Pulpí website: Ayuntamiento de Pulpí – Slalom Information.

For more events across the province, visit our Events category.

Published November 22, 2025 | Category: Activities & Attractions

TL;DR: Vera launches its Vera Magical Christmas 2025 season with more than fifty activities, including a Local Trade and Crafts Fair, concerts, family workshops, children’s shows, festive parades, sports events and the traditional Monumental Nativity Scene.

Vera Magical Christmas 2025: lights, markets & festivities

Table of Contents

• Overview: how Vera welcomes the Christmas season
• Presentation in Plaza Mayor
• Christmas lights and opening weekend
• Local Trade and Crafts Fair
• Monumental Nativity Scene
• More than fifty activities for all ages
• Fun, shopping and decorated streets
• Sports and Christmas cooking workshops
• Practical information and full programme

Overview: how Vera welcomes the Christmas season

Every year, Vera turns its historic centre into a warm and lively Christmas setting filled with lights, music and family activities. Under the banner of its Vera Magical Christmas, the town brings together a programme that mixes tradition, culture, shopping and outdoor events. The 2025 edition stands out for its scale: more than fifty scheduled activities between late November and early January, aimed at residents and visitors of all ages.

From the lighting of the Christmas decorations in Plaza Mayor to the final Three Kings Parade, the heart of the town becomes the main stage for concerts, parades, workshops, markets and community events that define Vera Magical Christmas each year.

Presentation of the programme in Plaza Mayor

The official presentation of the programme for Vera Magical Christmas took place in Plaza Mayor on November 21, 2025. The Mayor of Vera, Alfonso García, together with the Councilor for Festivities, Antonia Marín, unveiled the main details of the event while families and children enjoyed a special show in the square.

During his speech, the mayor welcomed “Christmas and all the magical characters who will join us to make these holidays truly special”, and encouraged residents to support local businesses throughout the Vera Magical Christmas season. He also announced a forthcoming consumer voucher campaign, designed to help households manage their seasonal expenses while strengthening local commerce.

The Councilor for Festivities highlighted that, once again, Vera embraces the motto “Christmas as we know it, like you’ve never experienced it before”, with a programme designed for the whole family and rooted in the spirit of Vera Magical Christmas.

Christmas lights and opening weekend

The festive season officially begins with the switching-on of the Christmas lights. On Saturday, November 29 at 20:30, Plaza Mayor will host the opening ceremony of Vera Magical Christmas, now one of the most anticipated events of the year.

The evening will feature a live concert by the Vera City Orchestra and will end with a pyrotechnic musical display that combines fireworks and music. Once the Christmas lights are switched on, the decorations illuminate the town for the entire Vera Magical Christmas period, inviting evening strolls and outdoor gatherings.

Local Trade and Crafts Fair

One of the main new additions in 2025 is the 1st Local Trade and Crafts Fair, running from December 6 to 8 on Paseo Miguel de Cervantes. The fair strengthens the commercial side of Vera Magical Christmas by giving visibility to local artisans, small shops and independent businesses.

The fair will include:

• a synthetic ice rink
• a Family Christmas Sweets Workshop
• an Advent Calendar Raffle organised by the local Merchants Association

These activities reinforce the message that Christmas shopping can be combined with culture, leisure and shared experiences during the Vera Magical Christmas season.

Monumental Nativity Scene

A tradition deeply linked to Vera Magical Christmas is the annual Monumental Nativity Scene, installed in the Convent of La Victoria. It will be inaugurated on Sunday, November 30.

Known for its craftsmanship, detailed scenes and atmospheric lighting, the nativity scene attracts both locals and visitors and serves as a quiet, reflective complement to the more festive outdoor events of Vera Magical Christmas.

More than fifty activities for all ages

The programme of Vera Magical Christmas 2025 includes over fifty activities designed for all ages. The goal is to fill the town with life through workshops, entertainment, concerts and creative experiences.

Highlights include:

• children’s workshops across the historic centre
• family and cultural shows at the Vera Auditorium
• a festive atmosphere throughout the decorated old town

The programme features major performances such as the Sleeping Beauty Ballet and a rendition of Handel’s “Messiah”. Music lovers can also enjoy flamenco zambombas, concerts and tributes like “ABBA Symphonic”. The New Year’s Concert by the Municipal Band on January 1 closes the musical programme of Vera Magical Christmas.

Fun, shopping and decorated streets

The streets of Vera are once again transformed by the festive designs of Haro Arquitectura de Interiores y Escenografía. Their decorations connect key areas of the town and create a walking route that invites residents and visitors to enjoy the heart of Vera Magical Christmas.

This festive backdrop encourages people to shop locally and enjoy the town at a relaxed pace. As part of the celebrations, several key family activities take place:

• the Asprodalba March
• the Santa Claus Parade
• the Children’s New Year’s Eve Celebration
• the spectacular Three Kings Parade on January 5

Sports and Christmas cooking workshops

Sports also play a role in the Vera Magical Christmas season. The Vera Christmas Race brings together local runners and visiting participants for a festive route through the town.

Meanwhile, the popular Christmas sweets workshops allow children to prepare and decorate traditional festive recipes, mixing gastronomy with creativity and fun as part of Vera Magical Christmas.

Practical information and full programme

During the presentation, the Councilor for Festivities invited everyone to enjoy a season that “combines tradition, culture and fun”. Given the large number of events, it is advisable to check the official programme while planning any visit to Vera Magical Christmas.

The full programme is available at navidadesmagicasvera.es.

General updates from the municipality can be found via the Ayuntamiento de Vera.

For more ideas on what to do in and around Vera during the festive period, visit our Activities & Attractions and Events categories.