A culinary adventure among the flavors of the desert and the sea
There are unique places with an atmosphere and landscape that immerse you in their particular and timeless nature. The Tabernas Desert was chosen for these very reasons as the setting for Europe’s famous Hollywood, where the desert landscapes and ancient film settings transport you to the Wild West.
From the desert to the sea from the unspoiled beauty of the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, with its wild beaches, breathtaking vistas and biodiversity-rich flora and fauna, perfect for nature and water sports lovers. In this very special area, there are many towns unique in their history, particularity and charm. Almeria is a city rich in historical treasures that hark back to the past times of the Moorish presence in the Andalusian territory.
In Salobreña, a charming seaside village, you can delight your palate with delicacies such as fresh fish, tapas and traditional sweets, surrounded by the beauty of the sea. The picturesque town of Guadix is famous for its cave dwellings, the “cuevas,” built in the distinctive rock formations of the Sierra Nevada.
Traditional dishes from the Tabernas Desert to the Sierra Nevada
Among the typical dishes of Almería are Gamba roja de Garrucha. Garrucha is a small fishing village in the province of Almería where these shrimp come from. Fish dishes also include Caldereta de pescado, a fish and seafood soup, dried octopus, and the not-to-be-missed gambas al pil-pil, shrimp cooked in oil and (lots of) garlic. Caldo quemao is a sauce of peppers, tomatoes and anchovies. Gazpacho cortijero is typical of Almeria and combines Almeria cucumber, tomato, almond and white grapes.
In the seaside resort of Salobreña you can enjoy excellent freshly caught fish and tropical fruits, which are grown here due to the area’s unique climate.
The authentic cuisine of Guadix skillfully blends tradition, flavor, and the fruits of this very special land, offering typical dishes such as Alpujarreño, made with sausage, bacon, and eggs, and the renowned Olla de San Antón, a delicious soup of legumes, pork, wine, zucchini, orange, dates, and dried fruit. Patas a lo pobre are potatoes cooked in olive oil with garlic, onion, and peppers. Traditional Guadix desserts include Dulces de Guadix, with their crispy pastries and delicious fillings.
Don’t miss the opportunity to accompany your meals with a glass of local wine from the Alpujarras region that perfectly complements the traditional dishes of the area. Unique flavors of local products definitely include goat cheese and extra virgin olive oil. Just notice the amount of olive trees you will encounter along your journey: hills covered with olive trees as far as the eye can see!
Special and unique places to discover
Tabernas Desert
The Tabernas Desert is a hidden treasure in southern Andalusia, perfect for lovers of adventurous travel and breathtaking scenery. Walking through the dunes of the Tabernas Desert you are immersed in a surreal landscape, where you seem to be catapulted into another world, into the wilderness.
It is an iconic desert that has captivated world-renowned filmmakers, becoming the perfect location for numerous western films. You can rediscover the authentic spirit of Western films by visiting still intact movie sets such as the Mini Hollywood, which allow you to relive the epic adventures of the cowboys.
Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park
The Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park is a hidden treasure in southern Spain, ideal for lovers of nature and authentic travel. Breathtaking landscapes, including golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and impressive cliffs overlooking the sea, making this park a true oasis of serenity.
Here you can enjoy various outdoor activities such as bird watching for the rich biodiversity, hiking, snorkeling, kayaking or simply relaxing on the beach, being lulled by the sound of the waves and the warm Mediterranean sun.
Almeria
Almeria is a jewel of Andalusia that surprises with its rich history, vibrant culture, and an extraordinary culinary scene. As you lose yourself in the charming narrow streets of Almeria’s historic center, you can admire the Moorish architecture and discover its hidden treasures, such as the Cathedral of Almeria and the Alcazaba.
Almeria’s imposing Cathedral reflects the city’s charm and historical legacy. The breathtaking panoramic view from the tower of Almeria Cathedral offers a unique perspective of the city and the surrounding Mediterranean Sea.
The Alcazaba of Almeria is an imposing Moorish fortress that gives the city a magical atmosphere of a bygone era. It stands majestically in the heart of the city, offering a fascinating fusion of history, culture and spectacular views.
Salobreña
Salobreña is a picturesque town on the Costa Tropical that combines golden beaches and a rich historical heritage, with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses and majestic Arab castle that dominates the entire town. Salobreña’s authentic flavors, thanks to its seaside location and warm climate, can be found in dishes of fresh fish and tropical fruits.
The breathtaking view from the top of Salobreña Castle offers a spectacular panorama of the coast and surrounding mountains. It is home to the La Caleta sugar mill, which has been in operation since 1861 and has produced sugarcane, honey, and alcohol for more than a century.
Guadix, the Cave Houses and the Sierra Nevada
Guadix is an Andalusian town nestled in the Sierra Nevada characterized by the cuevas, or cave-houses, which are typical dwellings of this area, carved into the rock. The Cathedral of Guadix is an architectural masterpiece that mixes Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles and offers panoramic views of the town. Together with the Alcazaba, the Moorish stronghold, and the Sierra Nevada mountains, it outlines the City’s skyline. The Sierra Nevada is a mountain range located in southern Spain that offers breathtaking scenery with snow in winter and a unique arid landscape in summer.
A gastronomic journey to discover unique flavors between desert and sea
A trip to the Tabernas Desert, Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, and Sierra Nevada is a unique experience that immerses you in exciting places between desert, sea and historical treasures.
These extraordinary places offer not only breathtaking scenery, but also rich traditional cuisine that delights the palates of food travelers. From the fresh seafood and tropical fruit dishes of Salobreña to the authentic delicacies of the Tabernas Desert and Sierra Nevada, the flavors of this Andalusian region will surprise you.
This trip is an unforgettable adventure that combines extraordinary landscapes, fascinating history of a bygone era, and gastronomic delights that bring together the tastes of the land and those of the sea.