Unmissable locations in Cabo de Gata
Los Genoveses, La Isleta del Moro or the Mirador de las Sirenas are just some of the unmissable spots hidden in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park, located in Almería.
With its wild beauty and its 38,000 hectares of volcanic landscapes, remote coves and steep cliffs, the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park is, without a doubt, one of the last remaining paradises on the Iberian Peninsula. It is a destination that should be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, where travellers will come across many beaches that are surprisingly deserted for such a Mediterranean location.
Los Genoveses, Los Muertos, San José El Mónsul and El Playazo are just some of the many must-see locations; there is something for everyone, whether you are travelling with your family, or an enthusiastic surfer or just looking for large, unspoilt spaces that will get you away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds. Apart from the impressive landscapes dotted with charming fishing villages, towers, mills, old waterwheels and farmhouses, Cabo de Gata also surprises with its tasty gastronomy and its enduring traditions.
In order to enjoy it at your own pace and reach even the most remote corners, the ideal solution is to drive your own car, charting a route that could ideally go on for one or even two weeks. If you can only manage a three- or four-day getaway, make a note of these places that should not be missed as part of your adventure.
Four must-see locations in Cabo de Gata
Cabo de Gata lighthouse and the Mirador de las Sirenas
1 of 4
Ancient fishermen's stories are the reason the “Arrecife de las Sirenas” (“Mermaids' Reef”) got its name: as they fought the strong waves to avoid crashing against the rocks, they sometimes thought they caught a glimpse of these mythological creatures in the area. Actually, they were almost certainly colonies of monk seals, which inhabited the area.
The best way to observe these impressive vertical stone formations, which are in fact the remains of a volcanic chimney, is from a lookout point next to the Cabo de Gata lighthouse, which dates back to 1863 and has witnessed numerous shipwrecks. One of the most dramatic ones was that of the Arna, whose resting place beneath the surface has become a wonderful wreck which many divers enjoy exploring.
Playa de los Genoveses
2 of 4
Don't be surprised if, on arriving at the Playa de los Genoveses, you are overcome by a sense of déjà-vu: it is a very popular location for many small and big screen productions, appearing in many advertisements, video clips and films, such as The Neverending Story, The Things of Love, Talk to Her or Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Its winding dunes, fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters make this one of the most coveted beaches in Cabo de Gata. One of its most outstanding features is La Peineta, a large rock in the shape of a giant wave that rises right on the shore, where bathers seek shade or have fun looking for crabs among its stones.
This paradise-like beach is also a perfect place to start a hike, as there are a number of trails nearby that allow you to enjoy the almost untouched landscape and the biodiversity of the surrounding area.
La Isleta del Moro
3 of 4
The charming and picturesque fishing village of La Isleta del Moro is one of the must-see locations on any route through the natural park. Its low, white houses, its palm grove and the small fishermen's boats landed on the beach create a picture postcard of paradise.
The town is surrounded by splendid beaches, such as the Peñón Blanco beach, but many people also choose to walk for half an hour to the Playa de Toros, which has preserved its natural landscape almost intact and has a remarkable large pine forest that reaches very close to the shore. After swimming in the sea, you should definitely not miss the excellent local fish, which are usually served fried or grilled.
Agua Amarga
4 of 4
Surrounded by hills and facing a coastline of crystal-clear waters lies Agua Amarga, one of the most charming villages in this province. With a seafaring tradition, this town is now a tourist attraction that draws many celebrities, who are beguiled by its balconies and gardens full of bougainvillea and geraniums, its bohemian atmosphere and its craft shops.
Near Agua Amarga stands Mesa Roldán, whose popularity soared following its appearance in Game of Thrones. This is a fascinating geological formation crowned by a tower, which was built in ancient times to defend against pirates. The fact that it is one of the highest points on the Almeria coastline makes it a magnificent vantage point from which to enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean.
