Idyllic beaches? Tick. Spectacular scenery? Tick. An array of activities? Tick! The rustic region of Costa de Almeria is bursting with incredible ways to fill your days this summer. Home to quaint villages, mouth-watering cuisines and the only desert in Europe, we’ve rounded up the top ten things to do in this picturesque part of Andalucía.

1. Call in at Cabo de Gata

If you’re looking for stunning coastal scenery, then say hello to Cabo de Gata Natural Park. Boasting dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and champagne sands, this picturesque paradise is a must-see when visiting Andalucía, and it’s packed with fascinating wildlife too! The southern part of the reserve is home to an array of vibrant bird species, including herons, stalks and flamingos, and you’ll also spot a variety of colourful reptiles as you explore the area.

Fancy getting active? Coastal paths and mountain trails make Cabo de Gata a hotspot for hiking or biking, and the rugged rock formations at Arrecife de Las Sirenas are ideal for snorkelling and kayaking.

2. Go on a day trip to Granada

From the narrow streets of the Albaicín quarter, to the bustling Alcaicería silk market, it’s easy to see why Granada is a firm favourite when it comes to Spanish cities. With the snow-capped mountains of Sierra Nevada providing a breathtaking backdrop, it’s the place to be if you’re after history, architecture and magnificent surroundings.

The iconic Alhambra – a palace and fortress complex – is sure to be a real holiday highlight. Think striking Islamic décor, charming courtyards and glistening fountains, all topped off with tree-lined walkways and sparkling streams in the palace gardens – paradise!

3. Snorkel through reefs in Roquetas de Mar

Marvel at the Posidonia reefs as you embark on an underwater adventure in Roquetas de Mar. Prepare to be mesmerised by vibrant strips of grass, reaching up to a metre in length, as they sway peacefully in the current. One of the few reefs of this type remaining on the Mediterranean coast, this unmissable site is home to more than 800 sea species, from fish and crabs to shrimp and sponges. If you enjoy a scenic snorkel or a serene scuba dive, this one’s for you.

If you’d rather observe the marine life on dry land, there’s an aquarium in Roquetas de Mar too. You’ll find everything from tropical fish to enormous sharks, and you can even pet a stingray… if you dare!

4. Dig into delicious dishes

From swanky Michelin-starred restaurants to delicious street food stalls, there’s something for everyone in the Costa de Almeria. Seafood fans can indulge in juicy lobster and garlicky shrimp, and those more into meats can enjoy the intense flavours of cured ham and sausage. If you fancy something a bit more hearty, you’ll find soups, stews and casseroles on the menu in local restaurants.

Hoping to try some traditional tapas? You’re in the right place. Aguadulce’s seafront promenade is lined with bars and restaurants serving up small plates, and you can wash it all down with a glass of local wine or anise liqueur – our mouths are watering!

5. Head over to Hollywood

The Tabernas Desert is a vast stretch of rugged slopes and honey-hued sands. If the jaw-dropping landscapes weren’t enough, it’s also home to Oasys Mini Hollywood, a Wild-West-style attraction that was once a film set in the 1960s and 70s.

Explore model hotels, saloons and churches in the village, and enjoy thrilling shows with mock shoot-outs and bank robberies. There’s also a beautifully designed cactus garden, with more than 250 species from different continents. Wander a little further, and you’ll find a picnic area, a nursery and a Wild West playground, so it’s the perfect place for a fun day out with the family.

6. See more of Mojacar

Mojacar is a firm favourite when it comes to Andalucian villages, and it’s easy to see why. Cobblestone streets, swanky boutiques and whitewashed houses spill down the hillside, providing a beautiful backdrop for those all-important holiday snaps.

Spend days exploring the rich history of Arrabal, the old Jewish Quarter, or searching for souvenirs in the charming collection of giftshops. When the sun goes down, head to the traditional restaurants serving up tapas and tipples before sampling brilliant bars along the beachfront.

7. Make a beeline for the beaches

The coastline of Costa de Almeria stretches along a whopping 800km, so golden sands are guaranteed. For Blue Flag brilliance, head to Playa de la Marina de la Torre in Mojacar. It’s a relatively quiet spot, so you can really sprawl out and soak up the rays.

Aguadulce Beach is a great pick too, with glorious grains and a palm-lined promenade, but if you’re after a truly sublime setting, Playa de los Genoveses in the Cabo de Gata is the one for you. Surrounded by enchanting eucalyptus groves and a majestic mountain landscape, it’s the perfect place to sit back and take in the view as crickets chirp in the background.

8. Jump over to Jaén

Cultural attractions and historic delights go hand in hand in this fascinating city. With multiple museums, a selection of shops and a breathtaking hilltop castle boasting panoramic views, you won’t be short on things to see and do in Jaén.

The city is well known for its olive oil production, so expect lush groves scattered throughout the region. When it comes to gastronomy, you’re in for a real treat. Locals love to serve up freshwater fish, delicious salads and hearty stews, and figgy bread and syrup-soaked dumplings are on the dessert menu – who’s hungry?

9. Go for a game of golf

Ready for a round? Of course, you are. The Andalucía region is a paradise for golfers, with heaps of courses to choose from. The Marina Golf Mojacar combines lush, flat greens with mountainous surroundings and glorious sea views, and the Desert Springs Golf Club offers an intricate design with challenging sections.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing eighteen holes, Club De Golf Playa Serena boasts flat fairways and superb scenery, and you won’t find any challenging crosswinds at Country Club Envia Golf either. The course is set in a mountain-lined valley, providing ideal playing conditions throughout the year, so what are you waiting fore?

10. Explore the historic highlights

Andalucía is a history-lover's heaven. You’ll find stacks of churches, castles and landmarks dotted throughout the region, giving you an insight into its rich past. Vera Costa is brimming with cultural must-sees, like the 16th-century Ayuntamiento and the Convent of the Minimums – there's even a museum displaying the area’s local history.

Hop over to Roquetas de Mar to catch a glimpse of the impressive Castillo Santa Ana, Our Lady of the Rosary Church and the imposing lighthouse of Santa Anna – a beautiful building housing artwork and photography exhibitions.

So, is it time for a taste of traditional Spain? The Costa de Almeria awaits…