Events

Almeria Hosts National Launch of Repsol Guide’s Coveted ‘Soletes’ Summer Picks

Published 16 June 2026 | Events

TL;DR: The Repsol Guide will unveil its latest summer ‘Soletes’ – trusted local favourites in Spain’s food and drink scene – in Almeria’s Cabo de Gata, celebrating 94 recognitions in the province with a special event in one of its most pristine natural settings.

Almeria Hosts National Launch of Repsol Guide’s Coveted ‘Soletes’ Summer Picks

Cabo de Gata Chosen for National ‘Soletes’ Presentation

On Monday, June 22, Guía Repsol will reveal its newest list of summer ‘Soletes’ at Cortijo La Loma, within the stunning Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park. This event marks a national gathering spotlighting Spain’s most charming and authentic eateries, cafés, and local gems recognised by Guía Repsol as must-visit spots for summer. Set against the backdrop of Almeria’s rugged coastline and protected natural scenery, the event promises to highlight the province’s unique charm and culinary treasures.

Celebrating Almeria’s Rich Coastal and Culinary Heritage

With over 200 kilometres of largely untouched Mediterranean coastline, Almeria offers wild beaches, inviting seafront terraces, and memorable sunsets. This makes it a fitting host for Guía Repsol’s summer ‘Soletes’ ceremony, where local establishments awarded this distinctive yellow badge of honour will be celebrated. Currently, Almeria boasts 94 ‘Soletes,’ a sign of a strong and varied local food scene that combines quality, tradition, and authenticity. The province’s balance of natural beauty and its vibrant gastronomy scene stands out as a perfect reflection of what ‘Soletes’ represents.

‘Soletes’: More Than Just a Foodie Seal of Approval

Unlike traditional ratings aimed solely at gourmet experiences, the ‘Soletes’ recognition focuses on places that feel like home — spots you’d happily share with friends. These establishments are chosen for their approachable character, consistent quality, welcoming service, and their rootedness in local culture. Provincial President José Antonio García Alcaina described the ‘Soletes’ as “a treasure map” for summer visitors: celebrating the familiar smile of a waiter who knows you, a grandma’s recipe perfectly preserved, and those corner spots in neighbourhoods that constantly invite return visits. He sees them as ideal for travellers seeking genuine connections beyond mainstream tourism.

Local and National Leaders Highlight Almeria as Ideal Setting

The announcement of the summer ‘Soletes’ event took place at the Provincial Council of Almeria, with President García Alcaina expressing pride that the province, blessed with some of Europe’s clearest skies and longest sunshine hours, will host an event he hopes will become a permanent fixture here. María Ritter, Director of Guía Repsol, praised Almeria as “the best destination” to celebrate this milestone, emphasizing its exceptional local produce and Mediterranean influences that shine through the recognised establishments. She highlighted the diversity of ‘Soletes’ offerings in the area, ensuring there is something to enjoy at any time of day, catering to varied tastes and preferences.

‘Soletes’ Across Andalusia: A Regional Snapshot

Almeria’s 94 ‘Soletes’ stand alongside other Andalusian provinces boasting significant numbers: Málaga leads with 138, Cádiz with 136, and Sevilla with 123. This distribution underscores the region’s deep culinary heritage and commitment to preserving authentic, inviting places where locals and visitors alike can enjoy Andalusian hospitality. The Guía Repsol team’s ongoing mission with the ‘Soletes’ initiative is to guide travellers toward hidden gems that offer memorable and heartfelt experiences — a mission Almeria exemplifies perfectly with its mix of unspoiled nature and rich local flavours.

For anyone planning to explore Andalusia this summer, the announcement event in Cabo de Gata not only heralds the newest ‘Soletes’ but also puts Almeria front and centre as a destination where nature, culture, and cuisine come together authentically. It’s the perfect invitation to discover why these special places inspire such affection and repeat visits.

Looking for fiestas, markets and things to do across the province? Browse the latest updates in our Events section.

Events

Canastereo Brings Flamenco Rock to Villa Africa This Saturday

Canastereo blends flamenco, rock, and neo-psychedelia in a live performance at Villa Africa, Aguadulce, this Saturday as part of Roquetas de Mar’s concert.

Outdoor flamenco rock concert at sunset in Villa Africa, Aguadulce with audience enjoying the music.

Published 18 July 2026 | Events

TL;DR: Canastéreo brings their unique blend of rock, neo-psychedelia, and flamenco to Villa Africa in Aguadulce this Saturday night as part of Roquetas de Mar ’s ‘A pie de calle’ concert series.

Canastereo Live in Villa Africa

Saturday Night Performance

This Saturday, July 18, the band Canastereo will take the stage at 10 pm in the Villa Africa area of Aguadulce. The concert is part of the ‘A pie de calle’ programme, organised by the Culture Department of Roquetas de Mar. This series of events aims to bring live music and cultural activities to neighbourhoods across the town.

A Unique Musical Fusion

Canastereo is known for its ethereal sound that fuses rock with elements of neo-psychedelia, all deeply rooted in flamenco influences. Their music creates atmospheric soundscapes with a distinctive identity, drawing on experimentation while remaining connected to traditional Spanish roots. Their lyrics explore themes ranging from dreams and nature to the passage of time and human emotions, blending the everyday with the surreal.

Evolution of Their Sound

The band made its debut in 2018 with their EP ‘Raices Lunaticas,’ which introduced their refreshing mix of genres and flamenco nuances. In 2021, they released their first full album, ‘Pasajes de lo Impuro.’ This record established their sound as a conceptual journey integrating rock, flamenco, and oriental textures.
More recently, in 2023, Canastereo released two singles: ‘Anabalina’ — a tribute reinterpretation of a classic by Las Grecas — and ‘Atlantico,’ which showed signs of their evolving musical direction.

The Latest Album Jazmines

In 2026, Canastereo unveiled their new album ‘Jazmines,’ a fresh chapter that explores indie and alternative rock with a curious and innovative spirit. The album features collaborations with prominent artists such as Rocio Marquez, Victor Cabezuelo, and Kike Verafauna. Produced by Victor Cabezuelo and recorded at Estudios La Mina with sound engineer Raul Perez, the album’s mixes were done by Manuel Cabezali and mastered by Dany Richter.
‘Jazmines’ marks a distinct evolution for the band, expanding their musical universe with new effects and synthesizers while reinforcing their artistic identity.

A Local Cultural Experience

The concert promises a rich experience for music lovers interested in innovative soundscapes inspired by flamenco tradition but open to contemporary experimentation. Visitors attending the event in Villa Africa can expect a night of immersive, atmospheric music reflective of Canastereo’s artistic growth and the diverse cultural fabric of Roquetas de Mar’s music scene.

Looking for fiestas, markets and things to do across the province? Browse the latest updates in our Events section.

Events

Virgen del Carmen Processions Cause Traffic Delays in Almeria Sunday

Two Virgen del Carmen processions in Almeria city centre and El Alquian on Sunday evening will cause street closures and traffic delays from 7pm onwards.

Evening Virgen del Carmen procession through Almeria city streets with people and historic buildings

Published 18 July 2026 | Events

TL;DR: Traffic will be disrupted this Sunday evening as two simultaneous processions honour the Virgen del Carmen in Almeria city centre and El Alquian neighbourhood, with street closures and detours in effect from 7pm until late.

Sunday Traffic Changes for Virgen del Carmen

Two simultaneous processions planned

On Sunday, 19 July, Almeria will hold two religious processions to celebrate the Virgen del Carmen, one in the city centre and another in the El Alquian district. Both events will take place during the evening hours, causing temporary traffic interruptions across several streets. The city hall has issued guidance to help residents and visitors navigate the affected areas.

City centre route and schedule

The procession in the city centre, known as the Procesion de Alabanza de Nuestra Senora la Virgen del Carmen, is scheduled to run from 7pm to 9pm. It will begin at the Parish of San Sebastian and follow a route through Alcalde Munoz, Gonzalez Garbin, San Leonardo, and Santos Zarate streets. The procession will then pass through Plaza Santa Rita before continuing along Alcalde Munoz, Argollones, Murcia, Huerfanas, and Granada streets. It will loop back through Plaza San Sebastian and Alcalde Munoz, ending back at the church.

El Alquian procession details

The second procession starts around 8pm in the El Alquian neighbourhood, beginning from Plaza Obispo Casanova. The route includes Mazorcas, Granados, Avenida de Los Pinos, Plataneros, Marinero, and Bulevar Manuel del Aguila. Participants will continue via Narciso Yepes, Luis Mariano, Currican, Virgen del Carmen, and Industrias streets. The procession will complete its circuit by returning to Bulevar Manuel del Aguila Ortega, finishing at Magallanes street before heading back to Plaza Obispo Casanova to enter the church.

Traffic management and advice

The local police will oversee traffic diversions and gradually reopen roads once the processions have passed. Drivers are encouraged to plan routes ahead of time and use alternative peripheral roads to avoid delays. Temporary no-parking signs will be placed along the procession routes in advance to facilitate smooth movement of the events. Awareness of these adjustments will help minimise inconvenience on the day.

Looking for fiestas, markets and things to do across the province? Browse the latest updates in our Events section.

Events

Mario Park Adds Balinese Beds and Online Reservations

Mario Park in Roquetas de Mar introduces Balinese beds, online reservations, and facility upgrades to enhance comfort and convenience this summer.

Balinese beds and family pool area at Mario Park water park in Roquetas de Mar under Mediterranean sunlight

Published 18 July 2026 | Events

TL;DR: Mario Park in Roquetas de Mar enhances visitor comfort with new Balinese beds, online reservation options, and ongoing facility improvements, making summer visits easier and more enjoyable.

New Comfort Features at Mario Park This Summer

New Balinese Beds for Relaxation

This summer, Mario Park in Roquetas de Mar has introduced a dedicated area of Balinese beds next to the family pool. Designed for visitors seeking extra comfort, this new space offers a chance to alternate between fun and relaxation. Since opening, the Balinese beds have received a warm welcome from guests who appreciate having a reserved spot to rest throughout their visit. This addition reflects the park’s increasing focus on comfort alongside entertainment.

Planning Ahead Made Simple

Mario Park has expanded its online services to improve the visitor experience starting before arrival. Through the park’s website, guests can now organize their trip in advance, securing spaces such as the popular Balinese beds or preferred and VIP areas. Many of these spots, especially the Balinese beds, tend to sell out quickly, sometimes well before the visit day. This system ensures that late arrivals no longer have to worry about finding a good place, allowing visitors to begin their day with peace of mind.

Continuous Upgrades to Facilities

Alongside new seating areas, Mario Park continues to invest in upgrading its infrastructure. This includes refurbishing various installations, enhancing landscaping, and maintaining high water quality standards. These improvements help create a more pleasant environment from arrival to closing time. The park’s commitment to these details aims to support a comfortable and hassle-free visit for families seeking both excitement and relaxation.

Balancing Fun and Comfort

Mario Park’s approach goes beyond adding new attractions season after season. The emphasis this year is on ensuring each family member can enjoy the day in their own way—whether kids are splashing in the pools, thrill-seekers are on the slides, or parents and companions unwind in the shaded, reserved rest areas. This balance is part of the park’s ongoing effort to respond to visitors’ evolving needs and preferences, making each summer at Mario Park a more memorable experience.

Looking for fiestas, markets and things to do across the province? Browse the latest updates in our Events section.