Almería, the capital, is the key to the Mediterranean and an authentic melting pot of cultures since Prehistory. From the sea, the city appears as a white line topped off by the Alcazaba (fortress) and the Cerro de San Cristóbal hilltop, an unequalled vantage point from which to see the town.
Known as Urci in ancient times, it is above all Mediterranean in its identity, with the centre's street layout recalling time and again the 800 years of Muslim domination. The Barriada de la Chanca area, with its outbreak of vibrant colours contrasting with the surrounding whitewashed walls, is a good example of this. But Almería would not be Almería without its 10th century Alcazaba (fortress) with its three enclosures, the two Arabic ones below, and the Christian one above; its high ochre coloured walls which turn to red in the early evening.
The Almería Coast is situated in the south of Spain, in eastern Andalusia, where the Mediterranean coastline changes from the south to the east of the country (levante). Of the many characteristics of this area, its contrast, film sets and sceneries, its wildlife and history, none surprises the visitor as much as its light. A pure, intense light which gives Almería, along with St John of Acre, Athens and Syracuse, the highest number of daylight hours in the world.
Along its coastline, we will describe villages ideal for relaxing and hidden-away places where nature reigns. We will pass among the dunes of the Sierra de Gata-Níjar National Park, imagining the figure of Lawrence of Arabia, played by Peter O'Toole riding across the sands; or why not the American tanks from "Un taxi para Tobruk". The quality of light and the unique landscape of the area have enchanted directors such as Spielberg and Alain Tanner, turning Almería into Europe's Hollywood. Actors such as Henry Fonda, Orson Welles, Clint Eastwood, Yul Brynner and Jack Nicholson, among many others, have all made films here.
The Tabernas Desert, declared a Natural Site, is considered the only real desert in Europe. It spans an area of approximately 280 square kilometres (110 square miles) and is located in the province of Almería, between the Filabres and Alhamilla mountain ranges. The desert's unique landscape and climate make it a fascinating destination for visitors.
The Tabernas Desert has been the location for numerous Hollywood hits such as "Valdez", "The Wind and the Lion", "Conan the Barbarian", "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" and many other films. Its striking scenery has attracted directors like Steven Spielberg and Sergio Leone, turning it into Europe's Hollywood.
A number of Wild West towns are scattered among the ravines and gullies of the area, providing entertainment and a glimpse into the past for tourists. These towns were originally built as film sets and have since become popular tourist attractions.
The desert's landscape is characterised by its arid climate, unique rock formations, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the desert's natural beauty through various hiking trails and guided tours.
Should you need to travel from Malaga Airport to Almeria, the most convenient option is to hire a car and drive along the coastal road, following the route depicted on the map provided:
Malaga Airport, one of Spain's busiest air hubs, serves as an excellent starting point for your Andalusian odyssey. Once you've collected your hired car, anticipate a drive that's as delightful as the destination itself.
The road to Almeria is straightforward and well-marked, taking you along the Mediterranean coastline. You'll cover roughly 200 kilometres on the A-7 motorway, a journey that typically lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, traffic permitting. En route, you'll enjoy views of the glistening sea, rugged mountains, and the extensive greenhouses that characterise the region's unique landscape.
As you near Almeria, the scenery undergoes a dramatic transformation as the coastal vistas give way to the arid yet striking landscapes of the Tabernas Desert. Almeria, steeped in history, welcomes you with its ancient Alcazaba fortress looming over the city and the Mediterranean's crystal-clear waters kissing its shores.
If you need to get from Malaga airport to Almeria, we recommend to rent a car at Malaga airport and drive to Almeria following the road route on the map below:
You can also book a transfer from Malaga to Almeria with us.
Credit cards accepted
