Almeria is a land that offers its visitors beautiful natural landscapes combined with coasts, beaches, mountains, deserts ... and an important historical and cultural value that the whole region provides.
The Posidonia Oceanica meadows are a real treasure on the seabed of the Almeria coast, attracting the attention of visitors for the colour and diversity they bring to the marine landscape.
The plants here, unlike algae, have roots, stems, flowers and even fruits (sea olives), but they need sunlight so they grow only in surface waters, at barely 20 metres deep. They are located at an approximate distance of 40 metres from the shore, creating the lush green spot that tourists like so much.
Natural Heritage of Almeria
For more than two decades, the Posidonia Oceanica has been used as a biological indicator because, in addition to being spread throughout the Mediterranean, it has a long life cycle and has the capacity to concentrate polluting substances in its cells, which is why it is a reliable means of diagnosing the quality of marine waters.
It is necessary to emphasise that these plants only grow and flourish in waters that are uncontaminated, well oxygenated and transparent. Its dense meadows reduce the wearing effects of the waves, thus protecting the coastline and the beaches from erosion.
The Posidonia Oceanica meadows represent the "Climax Community", or most advanced vegetation of the Mediterranean, since they represent the highest level of development that an ecosystem can reach.
Splendour in summer
When summer approaches, the temperatures increase and the water becomes more transparent, which enhances the popularity of the Posidonia Oceanica and turns the coast of Almeria into the preferred destination for lovers of diving at a professional level. It is also very popular with fans who want to observe closely the miracle of nature under the sea.
The plants here have long leaves that can reach up to one metre long, giving an unmistakable green colour to the seabed, where they coexist with varied plant species and thousands of animals. It is also an enclave used by many fish to reproduce, in particular, the mythical and fabulous seahorse who loves to attach his tail to the leaves of the Posidonia plants.
This biodiversity is what first-class tourists look forward to when visiting the Poniente, Cabo de Gata and Villaricos, where extensive Posidonia Oceanica meadows are in excellent condition, and with easy access facilities for all visitors.
Diving and snorkelling
Given the interest aroused by these meadows that are so typical of the Mediterranean Sea, there are many diving clubs that offer their services on the Almeria coast to facilitate and ensure safety in the experience of immersing yourself in these magical waters.
Training in diving is offered at a professional level, but basic courses for amateurs are also organised, including snorkelling trips that ensure a pleasant view of the varieties and textures of the seabed.
It is possible to take aquatic photographs throughout the tour and even collect some of the specimens of marine fauna, such as starfish. You must always follow the instructions of the guides and show a total respect for the ecological balance of the area.
The beauty and biodiversity of the Almeria coast is one of its main tourist attractions, so it is worth visiting and enjoying its benefits while always taking care of the environment, and even more in the case of the Posidonia Oceanica, since if it was lost it would take centuries to recover.
Activities in the province of Almeria
The best Tours & Activities in the province of Almeria
