Almuñécar is an authentic Spanish city of ancient origins on the Costa Tropical, the coastal side between Nerja (Malaga) and Motril, in the province of Granada in Andalusia. The area has a subtropical climate, the summer is warm and sunny, and the winter is perfect with a mild and dry climate.
Almuñécar, which has about 30,000 inhabitants and since 1975 has developed into a very popular area for tourists, is today also home to a well-established expat community, consisting mainly of Britons and Scandinavians. Although the city is overwhelmed by tourists in high season, it becomes significantly quieter from October to April, and much has been done to preserve the area's natural beauty. Almuñécar has a fascinating historical past that can be experienced in the old town with its attractive mix of typical Andalusian houses, bars, shops and al fresco restaurants scattered around the small sunny squares and in the steep, winding streets. Founded by the Phoenicians, who also started the fishing industry with a salting factory, the city today has a well-functioning Roman aqueduct, as well as many other exciting attractions such as the Church of the Encarnación, the Archaeological Museum, and the 16th century Moorish castle that dominates it. one side of the town on the small promontory of Peñón del Santo.
Almuñécar is located on a hill between two rivers, protected by the Sierra Nevada and its magnificent mountain ranges, and overlooking the Mediterranean. Fishing and agriculture are important to the city, and the very lush climate makes the landscape with its many green valleys perfect for growing tropical fruits. The hilly terrain also excludes the large flat building plots, so there are no large apartment blocks like so many others present along the Spanish coast. It is a city for those who prefer the traditional, whitewashed villas and who attract a slightly different type of tourists. Beautiful light gray beaches spread along the 19 km long coast and here you will find spectacular cliffs, small idyllic bays and long stretches of pebbles. Diving enthusiasts can enjoy the best underwater scenery in all of southern Spain and families will love the AquaTropic water park at Velilla Beach.
Almuñécar's gastronomy focuses on fresh fish and tropical fruits. Monkfish, tusk, dorade, squid, and paella with seafood are a good example of the local cuisine's prowess. There are countless cozy and good restaurants with outdoor seating directly on the beach, and in the city you will also find the coveted tapas bars, where small delicious dishes and the glorious Spanish atmosphere can be enjoyed to the fullest.
The many local producers of fruit and vegetables grow i.a. mango, avocado, papaya, guava, kiwi, and figs, which are important ingredients in local cuisine.
In the past, the area has also been known for its sugar cane production - however, this is almost extinct today.