Hello friends! I’m Nicolas, your favourite host in Carboneras, and today I’m taking you on an exceptional adventure: to the Tabernas Desert in Andalusia. Did you think that Wild West landscapes only existed in America? Well, get ready to be amazed in the only authentic desert in Europe, just 30 kilometres from Almería! 🤠🎬
Why visit the Tabernas Desert? 🌄
Landscapes worthy of great westerns 🎥
Do you have the spirit of Clint Eastwood or Indiana Jones? More than 300 films and series have been shot here. The spectacular landscape of the Tabernas Desert, with its lunar rock formations and deep canyons, is a true cinematographic treasure. Whether you’re a film buff or just a nature lover, you’ll be amazed! 🌠
Impressive hiking trails 🥾
The desert offers several hiking trails accessible to everyone. But beware: forget your city shoes and bring good footwear, plenty of water, and a cap or hat. Friendly advice: do the routes early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the extreme heat. Believe me, I’ve seen reckless tourists literally cook in the sun! ☀️🥵
What to do in the Tabernas Desert? 🧭
Visit western towns 🤠
You will find several very entertaining western towns:
- Oasys Mini Hollywood (more family-friendly, with a zoo and swimming pool)
Western Leone (more intimate)
You can relive legendary scenes from Sergio Leone films or simply immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the west while enjoying a cold beer in the saloon. 🍺
Explore the small town of Tabernas 🏘️
Between cacti and canyons, take the time to discover Tabernas, its beautiful church, its charming local shops and its cosy Wednesday market. Be careful with the access to the Arab fortress (the Alcazaba): the climb is demanding but the panoramic view is well worth it. 🏰
Discover the local gastronomy 🍽️
Don’t leave without trying the famous Tabernero, a kind of local ratatouille made with the exceptional olive oil from the desert. And for the more adventurous among you, try the migas or the typical Andalusian gazpacho. 😋
Practical information for your visit 📝
- How to get there: 30 minutes by car from Almeria on the A-92 and N-340.
- Free parking near Oasys Mini Hollywood and in the village of Tabernas.
- Prices: Free access to the desert. Western villages for a fee (from €22 to €59, depending on the park and options).
- Ideal duration: Set aside a whole day to enjoy the routes, the chosen western town and visit Tabernas.
- Accommodation: Few options directly in the desert; it’s better to opt for Almeria for more variety or nearby rural houses for an authentic experience.
My personal advice 😉
Don’t miss the sunrises and sunsets! They are absolutely spectacular and make for unforgettable photos. For those looking for an immersive experience without walking too much, I highly recommend the 4×4 excursion with a local guide: you’ll learn fun anecdotes to tell when you get back. 🚙🌅
Now you have all the keys to make the most of your visit to the Tabernas Desert! Have a great time and, above all, share your best photos with me when you return to Carboneras. See you later! 👋📸
| Other beaches we recommend (click on the beach name) | Advantages of this beach |
|---|---|
| Playa del Algarrobico | A spectacular, vast, quiet, and little-visited beach |
| Playa de las Marinicas | The beach at the foot of both apartments, the favourite of local families and children |
| Playa Cala del Enmedio | A lost paradise, reserved for those who truly seek it… a short hike required! |
| Playa del sombrerico | A beach at the end of the path… yet close to everything |
| Playa de La Galera | A haven of peace near Carboneras |
| Cala San Pedro | Lose yourself in its unique turquoise waters in Cabo de Gata Natural Park |
| Cala del Plomo | A hidden treasure in Cabo de Gata Park |
| Playa Sopalmo | Our favourite landmark spot near Mojácar |
| Cala de los Toros | An oasis… and then the sea! |
