If you dream of spending time in a cool and pleasant environment with beautiful landscapes, incredible foods to sample and a balance between the natural and industrial, then Almanzora Valley is your ideal place. With beautiful contrasts and an abundant culture you will discover this beautiful Valley of Almeria, where you can enjoy incredible and entertaining tourist spots, so cheer up and pack your bags right now.
The picturesque region of the Almanzora Valley is located in the inland area of Almeria. It is integrated with several municipalities located on both sides of the Almanzora River, which comprises the backbone of the whole territory.
The
Almanzora River runs through a valley of beautiful contrasts highlighted by orange groves, orchards and almond trees in bloom. When you get there, you can see the majesty of the mountains, with white open entrances and large marble works, lovingly created by the people of the surrounding towns.
When visiting the Almanzora Valley, you should try the fennel pot, the "gurullos" with hare, the partridge stew and rabbit fry, but the Almanzora Valley also promises much more. It should be remembered that in the Mediterranean, the olive oil diet is a fundamental and traditional part of life, and it is produced in towns like
Albox,
Tijola,
Arboleas,
Seron and
Urracal.
In their desserts they specialise in sweets like Easter “roscos”, “soplillos”, honey “mantecados”, almond cake, fried milk and fig bread; all so delicious that you can't resist trying them.
Traditional Crafts
The craftsmanship of the Almanzora Valley has been written in marble letters for centuries. Throughout its history, the region has been home to various civilisations that filled the Mediterranean coast with their indelible footprints.
Marble has been a mainstay of the culture from ancient times, and the villages of the Almanzora Valley have decorated some of the most illustrious monuments of Spanish geography, such as the Mezquita of Cordoba, the Monastery of El Escorial in Madrid and the Alhambra in Granada.
But this elegant element is not the only one that is part of the craft of the region, it is also common to find professionals working on unique pieces of pottery, especially in municipalities such as
Albox,
Tijola, or
Seron, among others.
Wood is another element that has great value in the region, and as a example, the sculptor Pedro Gilabert has imbued many dormant logs with life, which has made him a national celebrity, because his own style has left a mark on many artists. In fact, there is a museum in
Arboleas that features many of his works.
As well as this, in some municipalities of the Almanzora Valley, esparto crafting has been very popular during recent years in
Seron.
That is why when visiting local shops in search of some traditional souvenirs, you can find baskets, bottles, and different types of objects made with esparto to decorate your home with the identity stamp of the craftsmanship of this beautiful valley.
Culture, landscape, crafts and hard work are important values in the region, so you will not be able to resist visiting and taking a little of it to your home.
There are many places that are part of the history of Spain, and their traditions have been forged in utilising their natural resources without abusing them. The Almanzora Valley is undoubtedly one of those places, so you should not miss visiting it and enjoying its charm.
Do not forget your camera!