Almería Desert and Cabo de Gata
A four-day self-drive short route through Almería's Alcazaba, the Tabernas Desert and the volcanic coast of Cabo de Gata.
A compact loop at the eastern tip of Andalusia, completely different from the popular western routes: Europe's driest coastline, volcanic-rock bays and Western film sets. You start with a night in the city to see the castle, then base yourself in San José to explore the southern and northern coasts, with short drives each day. Ideal for a long weekend or a repeat visit to Andalusia. Granada is not included, and coastal buses are very scarce, so you will need a rental car.
From June 20 to September 27, 2026, vehicle access to Mónsul and Los Genoveses beaches is restricted. Check the rules for the year of your trip.
Day by day
Day 1 · Almería Alcazaba and Old Town
Almería & Cabo de Gata（Alcazaba of Almería、Almería Cathedral、Plaza Vieja (Plaza de la Constitución)、Civil War Shelters of Almería）
The airport is about 20 minutes from the city center by car. Pick up your car, park at the hotel, and explore the Alcazaba and old town on foot.
The Civil War air-raid shelters can only be visited on timed guided tours, so confirm the schedule in advance.
Stay: Almería City Center
Day 2 · Tabernas Desert to Níjar
Almería & Cabo de Gata（Tabernas Desert、Fort Bravo (Texas Hollywood)、Níjar）
The desert is about 40 minutes from the city, Níjar about 30 minutes further, and San José another 30 minutes or so after that.
The desert is scorching at midday, so visit the film sets in the morning and bring plenty of water.
Stay: San José
Day 3 · Lighthouse, Salt Flats and Southern Beaches
Almería & Cabo de Gata（Salinas de Cabo de Gata、Cabo de Gata Lighthouse & Arrecife de las Sirenas、Playa de Mónsul、Playa de los Genoveses）
San José to the salt flats and lighthouse is about 30 minutes. On the way back, take the dirt track to Mónsul and Los Genoveses beaches.
The southern beaches are more sheltered when the east wind blows. The dunes are fenced off, so do not climb them.
Stay: San José
Day 4 · Central and Northern Coast, Then Back to the Airport
Almería & Cabo de Gata（La Isleta del Moro、Mirador de la Amatista、Rodalquilar Gold Mines、Agua Amarga、Playa de los Muertos）
From San José, drive north along the coast to Agua Amarga (about 45 minutes), then take the A-7 for about 1 hour to the airport.
The northern bays are calmer when the west wind blows. Playa de los Muertos requires a walk downhill.