The Costa Almeria consists of 200 kilometres of coastline fringing the south east corner of mainland Spain. It's certainly not one of the better known Spanish resort areas although tourism has started to make an impact on a handful of beachside villages dotted around the coast either side of the cosmopolitan city of Almeria.

Unknown to most people, the ancient Andalusian province of Almeria, with its 200 miles of virtually undeveloped coastline, lies in the south-east corner of Spain, less than 100 miles from the coast of North Africa.

Enjoying the warmest and sunniest climate in the whole of Europe, with mid-day temperatures in January averaging 69°F and in July and August 99°F at least, and with the sun shining for more than 320 days in the year. This historic "forgotten province" is slowly awakening to the possibilities of tourism, bringing in amenities and facilities for holiday makers, whilst still remaining one of the most charming and unspoilt regions in Southern Spain.

The Almanzora beaches and countryside in the south east corner of Spain have escaped the weight of over development and mass tourism. There is no high rise development here and there never will be as the area is protected by strict coastal, environmental and planning laws. The local people, whose principal employment is fishing (the giant prawns landed in nearby Garrucha are famous throughout Spain) and agriculture, not tourism, are still warm and friendly to visitors.

Come to this particular "costa" if you're seeking uncluttered beaches and an altogether more relaxed sun and sand holiday than you'll find on the far busier Costa del Sol. The Costa Almeria's few main beach resorts offer low key tourist facilities geared to families and couples rather than party people.

Our apartment is situated in the quiet village of Palomares with views of the surrounding mountains and the Mediterranean. The stunning Arizona style Desert Springs Golf Course is just one mile away. It is just a short 10 minute drive to the prosperous town of Vera and to Cuevas Del Almanzora, one of the oldest towns of the province. The excellent beaches at Vera Playa, Garrucha and Mojacar are just a 5 minute drive away, as is the pretty fishing village of Villaricos with its two picturesque harbours. Attractions further field include Mini Hollywood (where many westerns were made), Granada, the Sierra Nevada mountains and the cities of Almeria or Murcia.

Travel

Car hire is essential to get around but this is cheap and available at all the airports.

Almeria Airport: Transfer time about 45 minutes
Alicante Airport: Transfer time about 2 hours
Murcia Airport: Transfer time about 90 minutes

Budget airlines use these airports (Thomsonfly, Ryanair, Easyjet, EU Jet, Jet2,
Monarch, MyTravel Lite, BMI Baby etc.)