Winter Sunshine ! Almeria and the Coast & Cliffs Of Cabo de Gata
Saturday 20th February - Saturday 27th February 2027
We begin in Mairena where we spend the first three nights. On Day Four we travel to Almeria; in arabic, Al-Mariyyatt, meaning either 'mirror' or 'watchtower,' or so they say. Whichever, it has an amazingly long history, based largely on its proximity to Africa, and the huge size of its port. It's a lovely city too, mercifully still unspoiled by mass tourism, with several award-winning museums, great city beaches, a castle the size of the Alhambra, a new funky food scene, and a fish market to blow your socks off. We stay in Almeria for one night in the middle of the week in a fine old 4 star hotel, before driving the following day to nearby Cabo de Gata. Statistically at least, the weather should be fine, given that it's the driest part of Europe, and borders Spain's only sub-desert, which means we can spend the day exploring the sea-scraped headlands and beaches of this remarkable National Park; I can’t think of anywhere quite like it in Europe – and I mean that in a good way. Think of the desert around Marrakesch, transplanted to the cliffs at Robin Hood’s Bay, and take away the people. And the camels. We’ll meander along the cliffs at our own sweet pace, before driving back to Mairena in time for dinner. More guided walk the next day, with picnic lunches, and the opportunity to forage for the Spring’s first salad leaves, keeping eyes sharp for wild asparagus. The price for the week, to include all transfers and full board, is 1125 euros per person, with a supplement of 235 euros for single travellers.
