Motril is one of the most significant towns in the province of Granada, being the second most populous. Its strategic location near the Mediterranean Sea has made Motril an important place throughout history.
Located just 69 kilometres from Granada, Motril has evolved from small fishing villages into a major tourist destination. Discover more with our comprehensive guide.
The origins of Motril are possibly Phoenician; however, it is certain that the Romans inhabited the city until the fall of the Roman Empire. Following this, the Arabs invaded and dominated the southern peninsula for eight centuries, leaving a lasting cultural impact.
The Christian conquest of Motril led to the forced conversion of many of its inhabitants to Christianity. This, along with other demands, sparked a revolt among the population. Eventually, the people of Motril won certain rights and even their own council, but many ended up leaving, rendering the town deserted.
It wasn't until the seventeenth century, after the cessation of constant pirate attacks, that Motril began to recover both economically and demographically. Although the production of sugar, which had been a staple of the municipality since ancient times, ceased in the early twenty-first century, the remnants of this industry remain as monuments to its past.
Today, Motril's economy is primarily based on the cultivation of tropical fruits and tourism, attracting visitors with its rich history and beautiful coastal scenery.
Motril has many tourist attractions; many of these places you can discover by taking a walk. Walking through the streets and after passing through the old street Puerta de Granada, you reach the old Moorish suburb; streets steeped in tradition, with seventeenth-century architecture and museums dedicated to the former production of sugarcane among other places of importance.
Golfers will find a golf course with 18 holes in Playa Granada, the Los Moriscos golf course.
Motril, the principal fishing port of Granada, supplies the municipality's kitchens with an abundance of fresh fish and seafood. Among the recommended dishes are lobster, shrimp, sea bream, and bass, to name just a few. Don't miss out on two of Motril's most traditional dishes: dried octopus and sardines Moraga.
Additionally, you can savour other local specialities such as:
Motril hosts a variety of vibrant fairs and festivities that attract both locals and visitors. The most notable event is the Patron Saint Festivities in honour of the Virgen de la Cabeza, celebrated from the 9th to the 15th of August. This week-long celebration includes parades, concerts, fairs, and religious processions, creating a unique and lively atmosphere throughout the town.
To reach Motril from Malaga, take the N-340 national road and the A-7 motorway towards Rincón de la Victoria and Nerja. The motorway is the quickest route. Motril is located just a few kilometres from Almuñécar and Salobreña.
The journey by road takes approximately just over an hour. You can rent a car at the airport with us or check our prices for a taxi from Malaga to Motril.
Please pay special attention to the speed limits, as there are speed cameras installed along the way. Want to know more about fines with a rental car?
The following map shows you the route in detail:
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