Almería Alpujarra
This Almeria part of the Alpujarras is less well known than the Granada Alpujarras to the west. Both parts share the same characteristics and historical origins. They are the sheltered southern facing slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
The area comprises of 24 villages that mainly centre on the higher reaches of the river Andarax. In its fertile valley are terraces irrigated by the acequias system of Arab times. Many different fruit trees are cultivated, as well as vines and olive trees.
Most of these villages have their origin in the era of Muslim Andalucia, hence the typical architecture of the Alpujarra buildings, although in some they have found traces of Roman civilization, as well as prehistoric remains.
Of special interest is the Desfiladero del río Nacimiento, the palace of Fuente Victoria, and the village of Fondón, where the last king of Al-Andalus, Boabdil, took refuge after he lost his kingdom to the Christians.
Destinations in Alpujarra Almeriense
Santa Cruz de Marchena is one of southern Spain’s typical whitewashed villages, surrounded by plots of orange trees and vines. The Plaza Durcal and its neighbouring areas offer the most… More →
Found on the banks of the Andarax River, Rágol is surrounded by large eucalyptus trees and is famous for its grapes and raisins. It has about 315 inhabitants. The origins of the town are difficult… More →
Walking through the streets of Terque, visitors should look out for the bourgeois houses that were the product of mining in the Sierra de Gádor and the exportation of dessert grapes. It has about… More →
Paterna del Río is the home of the unique recreational areas of Fuente Agria and Guarros, also known as the Baños de Santiago, the thermal waters of which are said to be particularly effective on… More →
Although small, Padules offers many highlights including an exciting natural environment to explore and its whimsical church, which features armchairs made from the trunks of chestnut trees.… More →
Ohanes was the residence of the Catholic Monarchs when Boabdil (the last King of Granada) was overthrown by the Christians. It has about 580 inhabitants. The first evidence of human presence in… More →
Instinción is a former Arabic village situated on the south bank of the Andarax River, midway along its course. It has about 450 inhabitants. The name Instinción is believed to be of Latin origin… More →
Once a major producer of dessert grapes, the agriculture of Íllar is now focused on citrus fruits. The town has around 390 inhabitants. The first recorded evidence of this town dates from the Al-… More →
Huécija is a typical alpujarreño village with notable features including the Convento de los Agustinos and its beautiful tower. It has about 480 inhabitants. The origin of the village’s name is… More →
Fondón is remembered for being the place where Boabdil, the last King of Andalucía, hid when he lost his throne to the Christians. He supposedly hid in the Castle of the Fuente Victoria area. It… More →
Dalías has two main populated areas; Dalías and Celín. At just 12km from the beach, it is a popular destination for lovers of the outdoors, offering sports such as hiking, climbing, paragliding or… More →
Canjáyar is found at the foot of Sierra Nevada, overlooking the Sierra de Gádor. Surrounded by orchards, which are served by a system of hundred-year-old aqueducts, it is a great place to enjoy… More →
Once famous for its lead mines, Berja now offers visitors an abundance of historic and artistic heritage, and is an ideal destination for hiking enthusiasts and those seeking sun and beaches. It… More →
Bentarique is where a valuable Muslim treasure was found dating back to the fifteenth century, consisting of valuable pieces of metalwork and is on show in the National Archaeological Museum in… More →
Beires is a perfect destination for a relaxing break or to enjoy the great outdoors. A place where you can relax in total tranquility, this rustic village forms part of the Sierra Nevada Natural… More →
Bayárcal is situated at an altitude of more than 1000m, making it the highest municipality in the province of Almería. This has gained the town a reputation for having, supposedly, the cleanest… More →
Alsodux, like many other villages in this part of Andalusia, is built around the site of an old farmhouse located strategically between the Nacimiento River and the entrance to Guadix. It has… More →
Almócita is found inside the Sierra Nevada Natural Park. The town’s centre is flooded with Moorish architecture which still remains despite the Jewish quarter situated underneath it. It has about… More →
Alicún is unique for its spectacular scenery, surrounded by orchards and terraces overflowing with luxuriant flowers and vegetation. Its Muslim past is can be seen clearly through the chimneys… More →
Alhama de Almería is the birthplace of Nicolás Salmerón, former President of the Primera República. This is why the town is also known as Alhama de Salmerón, or Alhama la Seca. However, the most… More →
Alhabia was once a Muslim farm, and is located at the confluence of the Nacimiento and Andarax Rivers, in a fertile valley. A very unique feature of the town is its pharmacy, founded at the end of… More →
Alcolea’s name originates from the Arabic for ‘small castle’, which likely signals the village’s early structural origins. The construction of the Pantano de Benínar (Benínar Reservoir) made the… More →
Alboloduy has housed settlements dating as far back as the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. Today, its main economic activity lies in the production of grain, olives, oranges, wine, flour, olive oil and… More →
Láujar de Andarax occupies a hillside position at 920m. With a backdrop of rocky peaks and dense pine forest, it has stunning views over the fertile plain of the Andarax River. The town is famous… More →