Explore the incredible scenery of the South Coast
The Costa de Almería displays a wonderfully varied coastline with beaches to suit all tastes. Located towards the very south east corner of Spain is the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park which is Andalusia's largest protected coastal area, spanning 460km. Its wild beauty comprises broken volcanic cliffs and hills; rough, unspoiled landscapes and hidden coves. And with 3000 hours of sunshine per year, it makes an ideal destination. The area has a unique personality and is one of the last un-urbanised stretches of the Mediterranean. Its beautiful beaches are secluded and unaffected, with clean, clear water and long sandy expanses. The only developments allowed in the area are the houses that were already on the land when the Natural Park was created in 1987.
What to see
There is a great diversity of wildlife in this protected area, with more than 1,300 different species of animal and over 1,000 plant species! One part of the Park, Las Salinas lagoon, is home to a fantastic flock of flamingos that return annually during their migratory journey, they are a wonderful sight to behold. Protected places such as the Cabo de Gata are always full of surprises and it was only very recently in fact that a new species of spider was discovered. The Eresus Mariae (named after the young lady that first spotted it) had eluded discovery up until very recently due to its tendency to burry itself in the sand. You never know what you may come across when exploring!
The Natural Park is of course home to a large amount of marine life too with an array of fish living amongst the coral reefs and Neptune Grass off the coast. Once you have had your fill of basking on the beach in the sun, or swimming in the warm waters, you can try out some of the Park's other activities. With such a range of habitat and different views to admire, walking, cycling and riding are all popular with visitors.
What to do
Local wildlife expert and guide Jesús Contreras provides great tours and day trips to some of the Park's very best locations. Jesús is a knowledgeable naturalist and was among the group that discovered the Eresus Mariae. He is the founder of Oz Nature Tours and his excursions are a fantastic way to see the sights and learn about the area. Jesús also provides walks, talks and excursions for the guests of nearby Almerían holiday resort Alfaix, focusing on a range of beautiful areas throughout Almería and Andalusia.
Useful links
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Visit Jesús' website here for his whole range of tours around Almería.
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The Amoladeras Visitor Centre is the main one in the Cabo de Gata and provides information and maps.
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If walking is your thing this website has a good list of trails.
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For something a bit more adventurous, this website and this website are good ones for those wanting to try a 4×4 tour.
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Or explore the underwater world with one of these diving centres.
Stay in the area
Discover the fantastic landscape of Almería for yourself and stay at Alfaix. Here you are ideally located to explore the region or you can join one of Jesús' excursions. Follow the link to learn how you can stay here.
