Cabo de Gata, Costa Calida

Cabo de Gata - Playa de Genoveses/ Cala del Barronal/ Cala de los Amarillos

It’s difficult to recommend one particular beach in this area. The Cabo de Gata region in Almeria is famous for its dramatic and eye catching coastline. Bear in mind that these beaches are within a protected Unesco Biosphere Reserve and so you will have to park your car a short distance from the seashore and walk to the beach on one of the many indicated footpaths.

Despite having the lowest rainfall of the country, it has a large variety of habitats – shifting from arid scrubland with vegetation like thyme, rosemary and the dwarf fan palm tree to saltpans or even coastal dunes. There is of course a huge spectrum of wildlife including endangered species.

The volcanic rock formations have created lots of stony islands, impressive cliffs which plunge into pristine waters and plenty of underwater coral reefs swarming with marine life.

The beaches are actually made up of lots of coves, each different to the other – some rocky, with white or gray sand and the clear waters are perfect for diving, snorkelling, sailing, fishing or even sea kayaking.

We recommend parking at the San Jose village, and walking down to the Playa De Genoveses. This is one of the most popular beaches in the area due to its shallow waters and long sandy beach.

From the Playa de Genoveses, one can reach various small intimate coves – for example the Cala de Barronal which is known for it’s hippy vibe and beautiful ample beach. The Cala de los Amarillos boasts stunning crystalline water and can be reached by walking South from the Playa de Genoveses.  Also nearby is the Playa Monsul whose extraordinary volcanic backdrop was used for the Indiana Jones movie!

And that’s not the only action that has been seen around here - the towers dotted along the coast were put in place to ward off Berber pirates who often sought refuge in this remote corner of Andalucia!

Many of the beaches and coves here are so secluded that use of swim wear is left to your discretion and don’t forget there aren’t any facilities like chiringuitos or beach bars here so remember to pack ample supplies with you – particularly water for your walk back to the car!