Cuevas del Almanzora from Malaga: Guide and 10 Things to Do

Get ready for a proper adventure in Cuevas del Almanzora, a cracking spot in Almeria where history and the great outdoors come together beautifully. This village has been around for over 5,000 years and you can still wander through cave homes people live in, check out the grand Castillo del Marques de los Velez, and kick back on beaches that hardly see a soul. From Malaga it’s 298 km down the A-7 – an easy three-hour drive – through dusty semi-desert, green patches of veg, and food you’ll want to write home about.

No wheels? We’ll sort you out with a lift from Malaga to Almeria. Dig into the old mining days, have a go at diving, or catch one of the local festivals. Cuevas del Almanzora is just the ticket for a real taste of Andalusia. Come on over and see what all the fuss is about!

Discover Cuevas del Almanzora

This place has bags of character and plenty to keep you busy. The cave houses cut into the rock are a proper step back in time, and the archaeological digs spill the beans on ancient life. If you like the sea, the little coves are spot-on for a bit of snorkelling or just chilling out. You can even play golf on courses that look like the moon, and there’s always a market or fiesta on the go. The grub’s a treat too – hearty wheat stew, homemade puds, the lot.

From Malaga, Cuevas del Almanzora is a cracking little break full of history, scenery, and proper Andalusian nosh.

10 Things to Do and See in Cuevas del Almanzora

Historical and Archaeological Sites

1. Cuevas del Calguerin
   These caves carved out of the rock are still lived in by locals – cool in summer, warm in winter. Stroll through the tunnels, soak up the views down the Almanzora valley, and find out how people made a life in this dry old place. View on map
2. Minas Tres Pacos
   Head down into these 19th-century lead and silver mines, poke around the dark tunnels, spot the rusty kit, and hear about the tough lads who kept the place ticking. The guided tours make the hard graft of the past feel real, with a bit of intrigue thrown in. View on map
3. Fuente Alamo Archaeological Site
   Go back thousands of years at this Bronze Age village. You’ll see bits of old houses, walls, and pots that tell you what daily life was like. Bring a picnic and make a proper day of it. View on map
4. Castillo del Marques de los Velez
   Climb up to the ramparts of this 16th-century fortress and pretend you’re lord of all you survey. It’s a museum now with art, sculptures, and local bits and bobs – great for a wander. They put on concerts and special shows too. Proper living history with towers to climb and stories round every corner – ace for families or anyone after a romantic day out. View on map
5. Necropolis Fenicia de Villaricos
   Step into the world of the Phoenicians at this 7th-century BC graveyard, full of tombs cut into the rock and odd burial customs. Pop into the visitor centre for the artefacts and info boards on what they got up to here.   View on map

Water Adventures and Fun

6. Lunar Cable Park
   Have a right laugh cooling off at this brilliant water park. Try wakeboarding or waterskiing – fine for beginners and old hands alike. There’s chill-out areas, a bar for a quick bite, and proper competitions if you’re feeling brave. Set by the reservoir with stunning views, it’s the perfect spot for a day of thrills and giggles. Slap on the sun cream and get ready to get soaked! View on map
7. Canal de Remo
   Fancy paddling like an Olympian? This canal’s spot-on for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or rowing on calm water. Lessons for all levels, plus races if you want a bit of excitement. Watch the birds while you work up a sweat, or just drift about. Water fun with a calm vibe – great for families, mates, or an active date. You might even end up with a few new muscles and a grin that won’t shift! View on map
8. Piscina cubierta
   Rain or shine, dive into this modern pool for a swim any time of year. Free swimming, aquafit classes, or kids’ sessions, with decent changing rooms and places to sit. Perfect for keeping fit or just floating about to switch off. Turns a dull day into something refreshing – just the job before more exploring. View on map
9. Cala Cristal
   Nip off to this tucked-away cove with crystal-clear water straight out of a postcard. Great for snorkelling or diving among the rocks and fish. Easy path down, peaceful, no crowds – ideal for a romantic picnic or total chill-out. The cliffs are stunning and the sea bed’s a proper treat. Bring your mask and fins for an underwater adventure you won’t forget. View on map

Nature and Panoramic Views

10. Mirador del embalse de Cuevas del Almanzora
    Head up to this lookout and drink in the blue water against the Almerian desert – it’s a stunner. Perfect for photos, sunset picnics, or just sitting and taking it all in. Drive or walk up, either way you’ll get peace and quiet and a bit of a lesson in how the land works. View on map

Watch the video

Food and Drink in Cuevas del Almanzora

The cooking here in Almeria province is all about the area’s history and its spot between the Mediterranean and the inland fields. You get classic Andalusian dishes with a Mediterranean twist – simple, fresh, and full of flavour.

Typical Dishes

Everything’s made with local bits and bobs – fish, seafood, veg, meat – grown or caught nearby. Stand-outs include:

• Gurullos: Handmade pasta with flour, water, and salt, usually served in stews with meat, rabbit, or fish. A winter warmer round these parts.
• Migas: Crumbled bread fried with garlic, olive oil, and bits like sausage, peppers, or sardines. Proper countryside grub, especially good on rainy days.
• Pote almeriense: A hearty stew with broad beans, potatoes, meat, and sausage – made for sharing.
• Fish and seafood: Being near the coast, you’ll find squid in sauce, monkfish casserole, or lobster rice.
• Ajo colorao: Thick soup with potato, dried red pepper, garlic, and fish – bold and comforting.

Traditional Sweets

The puddings are straightforward but tasty, proper Andalusian style:

• Hornazos: Sweet buns with a boiled egg in the middle, big at Easter.
• Pan de higo: Fig bread with dried figs, almonds, and spices – great as a pud or with cheese.
• Roscos fritos: Fried dough rings with aniseed, perfect with coffee.

Festivals and Fiestas in Cuevas del Almanzora

Cuevas del Almanzora really comes alive for its traditional fairs and festivals. They mix faith, music, and community spirit, giving visitors a proper taste of Andalusian culture. From solemn processions to lively street parties with food and drink, these are the big dates to catch.

Why Visit During a Fiesta?

The town turns into one big party with stalls, tapas, free concerts, processions, and craft markets. The weather’s usually kind, but spring and autumn are the nicest times to come.

Easter Week: Passion and Tradition

Key dates: March or April (from Good Friday of Sorrows to Easter Sunday, depending on the moon).

Easter here was named of National Tourist Interest back in 2003. The processions wind through the streets with ornate floats, brass bands, and penitents in robes. It kicks off with the Virgin of Sorrows and builds to the early hours of Good Friday. Perfect if you’re into religious heritage and Andalusian customs.

• Highlights: Opening speech, saetas (flamenco prayers), and blessings.
• Tip: Book your accommodation early – the processions pull in the crowds.

Virgen del Carmen and San Anton

Key dates: 16 July (Virgen del Carmen, local holiday) and 17 January (San Anton).

16 July honours the fishermen’s patron saint with a procession through town and sometimes down to the coast. San Anton in January has a pilgrimage, animal blessing, and fireworks in Plaza de la Libertad. Both show off the area’s rural and seafaring roots.

• Highlights: Animal blessing, brass band parades, and communal meals.
• Tip: Pair July with nearby beaches; wrap up warm for January.

San Diego de Alcala Fair and Fiestas

Key dates: Mid-November (around 13 November, local holiday; lasts 5–6 days).

The biggest bash in the Levante Almeriense, honouring the patron saint. Starts with a rocket from the town hall, lights up the fairground, and rolls on with concerts, dances, a solemn procession, and local food in the marquees.

• Highlights: Queen crowning, live music, fireworks, and traditional menus.
• Tip: Arrive mid-November for the main events; the fairground’s great for families.

Virgen de la Portilla

Key dates: 1 January.

In the hamlet of La Portilla, this quiet celebration honours the Virgin and Child with twin processions and community events. A gentle way to start the year after New Year’s Eve.

• Highlights: Pilgrimage and family blessings.
• Tip: Combine with a New Year break in the Almanzora valley.

Getting from Malaga to Cuevas del Almanzora

Cuevas del Almanzora sits in the Almanzora valley in Almeria province, about 293 km from Malaga by road. It’s a lovely spot for a quick getaway or a longer stay, with its mining history and living traditions. You can drive yourself or rent a car for freedom, hop on a bus for value, or mix train and bus for variety. Here are the main ways, with rough times, costs, and handy tips.

By Car: Quickest and Most Flexible

Distance and time: Around 293 km, about 3 hours 5 minutes on the main route.

Take the A-7 east past Velez-Malaga, Motril, and Almeria, then the A-92 towards Guadix and the AL-3101 into the valley. No tolls, but watch for twisty bits in the hills.

• Pros: Stop wherever you fancy – viewpoints on the Costa Tropical or a bite in Turre.
• Tips: Use Google Maps or Waze for live traffic. Renting at Malaga airport? Try Malagacar.com for decent rates and good reviews. Avoid weekend mornings if you can.

By Bus: Cheap and Easy

Distance and time: About 295 km, roughly 4 hours 55 minutes with one change.

ALSA runs from Malaga bus station (near Plaza de la Marina). Direct to Almeria (3 hours, buses at 8:00, 12:00, 17:00, etc.), then a local bus to Cuevas (1 hour 25 minutes, 3 a day). No direct service, but the change in Almeria is straightforward. Book online at alsa.es or at the station.

• Pros: Great coastal views and WiFi on newer buses.
• Tips: Book early for morning slots; Sundays have fewer buses. The stop in Cuevas is near the centre – walk or grab a taxi (5–10 €) to the old town.

By Train: Combined but Not Direct

Distance and time: Varies, at least 5–6 hours with changes.

No train station in Cuevas, so take an AVE or Avant from Malaga’s Maria Zambrano to Almeria (2 hours 30 minutes, every couple of hours) with Renfe, then ALSA bus to Cuevas (1 hour 25 minutes). Going via Granada adds time.

• Pros: Comfy AVE with sea views, central drop-off in Almeria.
• Tips: Buy combined tickets on renfe.com to save. Good if you’re travelling light; Almeria train and bus stations are 10 minutes apart on foot.

Other Options: Private Transfer

If you’d rather be driven, we’ve got a range of vehicles to suit. Our transfers from Malaga airport can pick you up anywhere in the province and take you straight to Cuevas del Almanzora.

• General tip: For groups, sharing a car works out cheapest.