A few years back, we discovered a hidden gem in the south of Spain. The coastal town of Almuñécar is a municipality in the Spanish Autonomous Region of Andalusia on the Costa Tropical between Málaga and Motril and is 70 minutes away from the Malaga airport. Complete with picturesque mountains and unmatched sunsets, Almuñécar has slowly become one of the most important tourist towns in Granada. The town of Almuñécar is rich with history, with nice cobblestone, local markets, colourful shops and endless bars and tapas spots.
We stayed at the Hotel Suite Albayzin del Mar. The clean and very white hotel features apartment-style rooms and is full of plants, fountains and a lush garden/pool area with an elaborate waterfall. The architecture takes on a 70s disco style décor, with plenty of mirrors, marble floors, lots of space and whitewashed shapes and designs. The service was top notch and, though we opted for a different local restaurant for dinner each night, the pool bar offered a quality menu to compliment the poolside cocktail. The hotel is about a 15 minute walk to the beach and 10 minutes to the town centre/old town. Though we were there for a wedding, it is suitable for all holiday types.
We love the town and the hotel, but 4-5 days is probably enough. It is a perfect addition to your summer European vacation and probably best suited for couples who want a little R&R, as well as memorable dining experiences complete with an assortment of wines and local, authentic Spanish food that we haven’t tasted in any larger city in Spain.
So after Barcelona and Madrid this summer, consider adding Almuñécar to your itinerary.
Photo courtesy Hotel Suite Albayzin del Mar
