tabernas desert tour

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

Why visit Tabernas, home to Europe's only desert

Once upon a time in Almería, Western film sets were the star attraction for those visiting the southeastern province of Spain. But a growing appreciation for the surrounding scenery — home to Europe’s only desert — now sees the landscape sharing equal billing with the old spaghetti westerns. 

It’s sundown and the horse up ahead is kicking up dust as we ride out across the badlands wilderness. Through the haze, I can just about make out a mighty sandstone canyon looming large on the horizon. Not just any old monolith; this happens to be the soaring mountain made famous when it offered a poncho-wearing Clint Eastwood sanctuary from a band of cut-throat outlaws. This slice of film history is an epic sight to behold, but my horse is in no mood to pause for a photo. Instead, with a snort, she continues to delicately pick her way through the bone-dry riverbeds and sage-studded dirt tracks, as I keep a hawk-like eye out for the slithering snakes that also call this thirsty land home. Everything about this twilight scenery feels as if I’m riding through the big-sky vistas of North America, so it’s a jolt back to reality when our trekking guide Sara González swings around in her saddle and greets the group with a cheerful “Hola!” instead of “Hey y’all!”.  

I’ve travelled to Almería, a province of Andalucía tucked into the southeast corner of Spain's Mediterranean coast, less than a three-hour flight away from the UK. This lesser-known region has somehow escaped the ravages of mass tourism, which seems curious given that Almería holds a seriously impressive calling card — it’s home to Tabernas, Europe’s only desert. Recently though, word has started to spread about the region’s natural wonders, attracting a new wave of visitors, says González, who’s a nurse by day and a cowgirl guide for the outdoor adventure company Malcaminos as evening falls.

“We’re seeing a much younger crowd of people in their twenties, thirties and forties now visiting Almería. They come from right across Europe for this landscape,” González calls back over her shoulder as we trek through the rocky, sun-scorched terrain. “Tourists used to come for the western movie sets, but these days, I have to explain the concept of spaghetti western movies to most of our customers,” she laughs as we hit the trail back to the ranch.

A fistful of euros

At high noon the following morning, I head towards the rootin’ tootin’ Wild West movie sets that González had told me of. It was back in the 1960s that Almería stepped into the spotlight after the Italian film director Sergio Leone used the landscape to shoot his notorious spaghetti western films, a subgenre of westerns so called as they were often produced and directed by Italians. Leone ended up creating the Dollars Trilogy (also known as the Man with No Name Trilogy) —   three masterpieces consisting of   A Fistful of Dollars, For a Few Dollars More   and The Good, The Bad and The Ugly — in this semi-arid desert.

The region soon became known as the Hollywood of Europe, due to its heady offering of low production costs, an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year and the versatility of its shape-shifting landscape. It’s been used as a stand-in for locations as diverse as the American West for cowboy flicks, Turkey in Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Uluru in Australia for an episode of The Crown in more recent years.

These days, aside from the odd production crew setting up camp, the cameras have mostly stopped rolling in Almería. Still, three Old West relics remain — Fort Bravo , Oasys MiniHollywood and Western Leone — clustered around the old town of Tabernas, about a 30-minute drive from Almería Airport. They’ve survived, I discover as I arrive at Fort Bravo for their midday Western extravaganza, by rebranding as quirky tourist attractions offering visitors high-kicking can-can dance shows and chuckwagon rides through the eerily deserted backdrops.

( The Wild West lives on in Southern Spain. )

I pull up a seat in the spit-and-sawdust saloon just in time to see a rugged cowboy swagger in, a 10-gallon hat tipped over brooding eyes and silver spurs jangling at his ankles as he thuds lazily across the wooden floorboards. Propping up the handsome mahogany bar, two women wearing a rustle of old-timey satin dresses exchange anxious glances as he saunters past, his right-hand twitching over a shiny pistol nestled in his holster belt.

The audience members around me already know the time-honoured script that this cowpoke reads from. We’ve all watched enough westerns to understand that coming hot on this desperado’s heels will be a ragbag posse of bandits, swiftly followed by a showdown and, ultimately, a deadly shoot-out. But that doesn’t dampen the thrill of watching Fort Bravo’s bombastic show, which plays out in a fury of exuberant stunt moves, the air thick with the intoxicating smell of gunpowder as cap guns pop with startling bangs.

As the smoke slowly starts to clear, I make my way towards the dusty car park, taking a moment to appreciate the faded beauty of this retro frontier town originally built in the early 1970s. The cowboy show’s leading man, who has an impressive 26-year run of performing at Fort Bravo under his belt, now stands out on the rickety boardwalk, puffing on a cigarette while checking his phone as a threadbare star-spangled banner flaps noisily in the wind.

While Fort Bravo feels a little like the ghost of westerns past, at my next stop just along the winding road, I catch a glimpse of the future for Almería’s stage sets. More than 100 movies were filmed on location at Oasys MiniHollywood in the 1960s and 1970s, before it returned for a second act as an Americana-flavoured theme park, complete with a goldrush-era town crammed with gift shops, a zoo, splash park and upscale barbecue restaurant overlooking the craggy mountains — it attracts a healthy 180,000 visitors annually. Work is currently underway to add a boarding house-style hotel to the park.

The costume shop on Main Street appears to be doing a roaring trade of hiring out pioneer outfits to visitors, making it increasingly hard to tell the difference between tourists and cast members. In among the sea of cowboy hats, I somehow locate Diego García Ceba , entertainment manager at Oasys MiniHollywood. Tucking his thumbs into the pockets of his leather waistcoat, he rocks back on his heels as he fondly recalls that westerns have always taken centre stage in his life.

“I was born just 20 minutes from here and one of my earliest memories was meeting Henry Ford when I was this high,” he says, mimicking that he was roughly the same height as the top of the Hollywood actor’s cowboy boots at the time. “In my early career, I was a stunt man in movies being filmed in Almería. Then, about 40 years ago, I started working at this park. Now I’m in charge of all the action here — the western re-enactments and can-can dance shows — but what keeps me here is my love for the horses,” he says. Right on cue, the sound of thundering hooves signals the opening scene of my second western show of the day, this time involving Oscar-worthy performances from wranglers falling from first-floor balconies into strategically placed hay bales, as Rawhide plays over the open-air speakers.

Queen of the Desert

Before leaving Almería, there’s just time to meet naturist and tourist guide Cristina Serena Seguí for a 4X4 drive through the Tabernas Desert. With a pink scarf tied at her neck like an explorer, Cristina explains that she started her outdoor adventure company Malcaminos two decades previously, leading tours on a couple of shaggy camels, much like a scene from the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia,   which was   also shot in Tabernas.

Somewhat sadly, the camels have since been upgraded to jeeps and horses, Cristina explains as we bump along in her car across a desert scape barely touched by water, thanks to the flanking mountain ranges that act as a natural barrier, stopping the moisture-laden air from the Mediterranean Sea sweeping in.

“In the 20 years I’ve worked here, attitudes towards this desert have changed. It was once considered a wasteland holding very little interest,” she says, pulling over the jeep to soak up blockbuster views of the lunar-like slopes and ravines, which millions of years ago were hidden deep under the sea. Today, scientists from across the globe regularly visit to gain insights into how we can grow produce and live with less water, as Tabernas becomes an increasingly extreme case study. In a good year, the region receives just 20 centimetres of rain per year, but a drought last year saw so little rainfall that agriculture, a crucial source of income for the region, took a blow.

“We’re now having to think about what Tabernas offers that’s of high value. There’s tourism, of course, which increasingly involves agritourism. But we also have plenty of sun and wind, so renewable energy is becoming a focus.” Local farmers are adjusting to the changing climate by growing fruit and vegetables under plastic. Almería now has one of the highest concentrations of greenhouses in the world, Cristina adds. “People are shocked when they first see the greenhouses, but in many ways, it’s an intelligent solution to the lack of rain as you avoid evaporation. We arrived at these conclusions long before others simply because we had to for our survival.”

As I head back towards the airport, passing an ocean of solar panels lining the parched roadside and the off-beat western-film-sets-turned-tourist-attractions, Cristina’s parting words ring out: “Almería has always been a land that teaches people how to adapt to the times.”

Related Topics

• CULTURAL TOURISM

You May Also Like

Who was the real Calamity Jane? Historians search for an answer.

Redefining the Old West: meet the people ushering in a new age

For hungry minds.

Why Hollywood is obsessed with Italy

From Bali to Jamaica, these islands are Hollywood's favourites

The Wild West lives on in southern Spain

California gold rush towns are booming again. Here’s what to see and do.

Walk across the sky in the U.S.’s highest-elevation city

• Environment
• Paid Content
• Photography
• Perpetual Planet

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Destination Guide
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

• http://www.facebook.com/viveandalucia
• http://www.twitter.com/viveandalucia
• http://instagram.com/viveandalucia
• http://www.youtube.com/user/viveandalucia
• Places to visit
• Explore Andalusia
• Plan the trip
• Professional

Our capitals

Much more than cities

Province of Almeria

• Almería y su Entorno
• Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento
• Cabo de Gata y Níjar

Costa de Almería

• Sierra de los Filabres
• Sierra de María/Los Velez
• Valle de Almanzora

Province of Cadiz

• Costa de la Luz (Cádiz)
• Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales
• Jerez de la Frontera
• Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema

Province of Cordoba

• Córdoba y su Entorno
• Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir
• La Campiña (Córdoba)
• Alto Guadiato
• La Subbética
• Los Pedroches

Province of Granada

• Altiplano de Granada
• Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín
• Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado
• La Vega y la Campana
• El Poniente Granadino
• Granada y Sierra Nevada

La Alpujarra

Province of Huelva

• Andévalo y Parque Minero
• Doñana y Entorno
• Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche
• Costa de la Luz (Huelva)
• Huelva y Lugares Colombinos
• Niebla y el Condado

Province of Jaen

• Jaén y Entorno
• Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros
• Sierra Mágina

Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas

• Úbeda/Baeza
• Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén

Province of Malaga

• Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental
• Antequera y Entorno
• Costa del Sol Occidental
• Málaga y Entorno
• Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal
• Valle del Guadalhorce

Province of Seville

• El Aljarafe
• La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir
• La Vega del Guadalquivir
• Sevilla y Entorno
• Sierra Norte

Main attractions

Mezquita de Córdoba

Alcazaba de Málaga

Jaén Cathedral

Cádiz Cathedral

Muelle de las Carabelas

Alcazaba de Almería

Alhambra y Generalife

Andalusia's Natural Treasures

Cerro del Hierro

Duna de Bolonia

Caminito del Rey

Georuta Desierto de Gorafe

La Geoda de Pulpí

Gruta de las Maravillas

Tinto River

Los Alcornocales

Sierra Nevada

Sierras Subbéticas

Torcal de Antequera

Despeñaperros

• Costa del Sol
• Costa de la Luz- Cadiz
• Costa de la Luz-Huelva
• Costa Tropical
• Blue Flag beaches
• Gastronomic Activities
• Michelin Star

Cultural Tourism

• Adapted Golf
• Pitch & Putt

Nature Areas

• Leisure Parks
• Health and Beauty

Places of leisure

Offers and Experiences

Astrotourism - Star Tourism

Tourist Routes

Andalucía a caballo

Meetings and congresses

• Spanish language schools

Cyclotourism

Andalusia made to measure

With the family

Digital and energetic nomad

Andalusia all year round

Summer in Andalusia

Autumn in Andalusia

Christmas in Andalusia

Andalusia in Spring

How to get around in Andalusia

Come by air, by boat or by land

Transport companies in Andalusia

• Practical information

Where to sleep?

Hotel-Apartment

Housing for tourism purposes

Rural House

Country House Lodge

Rural Resort

Campsites and overnight parking

Youth Hostel

Boarding House

Where to eat ?

• Restaurants

Gourmet markets

Things to do

Ideas for your trip

Publications and Brochures

City brochures

Coast leaflets

Area brochure

Specialised brochures

Folletos genéricos

Provincial leaflets

Specialised books

What is NAC?

How does NAC work?

How to create offers in NAC ?

SmartData Andalusia

¿Qué es smartdata?

Fuentes smartdata

Solicitar usuario

Acceso smartdata

Material Audiovisual

Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia

Colecciones

• Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Our capitals . Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Almería +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Cádiz +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Córdoba +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Granada +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Huelva +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Jaén +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Málaga +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info Sevilla +info
• Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno Almería y su Entorno
• Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento Alpujarra Almeriense/Río Nacimiento
• Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar Cabo de Gata y Níjar
• Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería Costa de Almería
• Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres Sierra de los Filabres
• Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez Sierra de María/Los Velez
• Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora Valle de Almanzora
• Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz) Costa de la Luz (Cádiz)
• Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales Campo de Gibraltar/Los Alcornocales
• Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz Cádiz
• Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera Jerez de la Frontera
• Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema Pueblos Blancos/Sierra de Grazalema
• Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno Córdoba y su Entorno
• Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir Córdoba y la Zona del Guadalquivir
• La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba) La Campiña (Córdoba)
• Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato Alto Guadiato
• La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética La Subbética
• Los Pedroches Los Pedroches Los Pedroches Los Pedroches
• Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada Altiplano de Granada
• Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín Costa Tropical y Valle de Lecrín
• Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado Hoya de Guadix y Marquesado
• La Vega y la Campana La Vega y la Campana La Vega y la Campana La Vega y la Campana
• El Poniente Granadino El Poniente Granadino El Poniente Granadino El Poniente Granadino
• Granada y Sierra Nevada Granada y Sierra Nevada Granada y Sierra Nevada Granada y Sierra Nevada
• La Alpujarra La Alpujarra La Alpujarra La Alpujarra
• Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero Andévalo y Parque Minero
• Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno Doñana y Entorno
• Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche
• Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva) Costa de la Luz (Huelva)
• Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos Huelva y Lugares Colombinos
• Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado Niebla y el Condado
• Jaén y Entorno Jaén y Entorno Jaén y Entorno Jaén y Entorno
• Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros Sierra Morena/Sierras de Andújar y Despeñaperros
• Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina Sierra Mágina
• Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas
• Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza Úbeda/Baeza
• Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén Sierra Sur y Campiña de Jaén
• Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental Axarquía/Costa del Sol Oriental
• Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno Antequera y Entorno
• Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental Costa del Sol Occidental
• Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno Málaga y Entorno
• Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal Serranía de Ronda/Valle del Genal
• Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce Valle del Guadalhorce
• El Aljarafe El Aljarafe El Aljarafe El Aljarafe
• La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir La Marisma/Bajo Guadalquivir
• La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir La Vega del Guadalquivir
• Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno Sevilla y Entorno
• Sierra Norte Sierra Norte Sierra Norte Sierra Norte
• Main attractions . Main attractions . Main attractions . Main attractions . Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info Mezquita de Córdoba +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info La Giralda +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Alcazaba de Málaga +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Jaén Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Cádiz Cathedral +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Muelle de las Carabelas +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alcazaba de Almería +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info Alhambra y Generalife +info
• Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Andalusia's Natural Treasures . Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Cerro del Hierro +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Doñana +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Duna de Bolonia +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Caminito del Rey +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info Georuta Desierto de Gorafe +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info La Geoda de Pulpí +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Gruta de las Maravillas +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Tinto River +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Los Alcornocales +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierra Nevada +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Sierras Subbéticas +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Torcal de Antequera +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info Despeñaperros +info
• Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol Costa del Sol
• Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz Costa de la Luz- Cadiz
• Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva Costa de la Luz-Huelva
• Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical Costa Tropical
• Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches Blue Flag beaches
• Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities Gastronomic Activities
• Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star Michelin Star
• Recipes Recipes Recipes Recipes
• Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf Adapted Golf
• Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt Pitch & Putt
• Live . Live . Live . Live . Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info - +info - +info - +info - +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Astrotourism - Star Tourism +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Tourist Routes +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Andalucía a caballo +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Meetings and congresses +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Spanish language schools +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info Cyclotourism +info
• Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . Andalusia made to measure . With the family +info With the family +info With the family +info With the family +info - +info - +info - +info - +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info Digital and energetic nomad +info
• Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Andalusia all year round . Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Summer in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Autumn in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Christmas in Andalusia +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Holy week +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info Andalusia in Spring +info
• How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . How to get around in Andalusia +info . Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Come by air, by boat or by land +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Transport companies in Andalusia +info Practical information +info Practical information +info Practical information +info Practical information +info
• Where to sleep? +info . Where to sleep? +info . Where to sleep? +info . Where to sleep? +info . Hotel +info Hotel +info Hotel +info Hotel +info Hotel-Apartment +info Hotel-Apartment +info Hotel-Apartment +info Hotel-Apartment +info Apartment +info Apartment +info Apartment +info Apartment +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Housing for tourism purposes +info Rural House +info Rural House +info Rural House +info Rural House +info Country House Lodge +info Country House Lodge +info Country House Lodge +info Country House Lodge +info Rural Resort +info Rural Resort +info Rural Resort +info Rural Resort +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Campsites and overnight parking +info Youth Hostel +info Youth Hostel +info Youth Hostel +info Youth Hostel +info Hostel +info Hostel +info Hostel +info Hostel +info Boarding House +info Boarding House +info Boarding House +info Boarding House +info
• Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Where to eat ? +info . Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Restaurants +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info Gourmet markets +info
• Things to do . Things to do . Things to do . Things to do . Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Offers and Experiences +info Events +info Events +info Events +info Events +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info Ideas for your trip +info News +info News +info News +info News +info
• Publications and Brochures +info . Publications and Brochures +info . Publications and Brochures +info . Publications and Brochures +info . City brochures +info City brochures +info City brochures +info City brochures +info Coast leaflets +info Coast leaflets +info Coast leaflets +info Coast leaflets +info Area brochure +info Area brochure +info Area brochure +info Area brochure +info Specialised brochures +info Specialised brochures +info Specialised brochures +info Specialised brochures +info Folletos genéricos +info Folletos genéricos +info Folletos genéricos +info Folletos genéricos +info Provincial leaflets +info Provincial leaflets +info Provincial leaflets +info Provincial leaflets +info Specialised books +info Specialised books +info Specialised books +info Specialised books +info
• NAC +info . NAC +info . NAC +info . NAC +info . What is NAC? +info What is NAC? +info What is NAC? +info What is NAC? +info How does NAC work? +info How does NAC work? +info How does NAC work? +info How does NAC work? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info How to create offers in NAC ? +info Who we are +info Who we are +info Who we are +info Who we are +info
• SmartData Andalusia +info . SmartData Andalusia +info . SmartData Andalusia +info . SmartData Andalusia +info . ¿Qué es smartdata? +info ¿Qué es smartdata? +info ¿Qué es smartdata? href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/que-es-smartdata/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info ¿Qué es smartdata? +info Fuentes smartdata +info Fuentes smartdata +info Fuentes smartdata href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/fuentes-smartdata/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Fuentes smartdata +info Solicitar usuario +info Solicitar usuario +info Solicitar usuario href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/solicitar-usuario/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Solicitar usuario +info Acceso smartdata +info Acceso smartdata +info Acceso smartdata href="https://smartdata.andalucia.org/acceso-smartdata/" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Acceso smartdata +info
• Material Audiovisual +info . Material Audiovisual +info . Material Audiovisual +info . Material Audiovisual +info . Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia +info Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia +info Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia href="https://media.andalucia.org/galeria/terminos" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Condiciones de uso de la galeria multimedia +info Lo último +info Lo último +info Lo último href="https://media.andalucia.org/galeria/search" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Lo último +info Colecciones +info Colecciones +info Colecciones href="https://media.andalucia.org/galeria/collections" style="margin-left: 10px;" target="_blank">+info Colecciones +info
• - +info - +info - +info - +info

Desierto de Tabernas

What we will do:

This protected Natural Site is a unique natural space in Spain and in the world. Tabernas Desert boasts of being the only natural desert in Europe, as it receives less than 200 litres of water per year. The singularity of its flora and fauna have to do with its territory’s climate and dryness. An inhospitable and wild place that won’t disappoint you. 

Tabernas Desert and its environment belong to the collective imagination of a whole generation. Its wild landscapes have been used since the 1960s as outdoor film sets. Hollywood’s movies or the famous Spaghetti Western meant the beginning of an industry that still has a main role nowadays in Almería. TV shows like Game of Thrones or movies such as Exodus or Wonder Woman, among other productions, are still recorded each year in Tabernas.

Traveling the ancient seabed through its now dry rivers, and even walking or in a car, it is a supernatural experience. There are ancient movie settings, theme parks, olive presses, wineries and even a race track. But if none of that appeals to you, we can always go to the sky of Almería and watch the greatness of the desert from its nearest peak. 

More information about this activity:

On this day trip we offer you the commodity to discover this natural place from your home. Your personal guide, your private transport and your companions. You choose the rate and the activity. 

We recommend the use of comfortable shoes to walk, as well as clothing appropriate to the weather and the time of the year. In this way, it is important to bring water or some hydrating drinks as well as sun protection and some snacks if you wish.

There is a possibility of doing this experience during the whole day instead of half a day. You can also include other activities that we give you below:

Extra cost activities:

Visit the Almazara or the wine cellar

Visit The Solar Platform of Tabernas

Visit Theme Parks / Film sets

Free activities

Visit the Interpretation Center Terrera ventura and Tabernas Desert

Visit the Interpretation Center and archaeological site Los millares

Pickup and lodging Welcome and introduction of the experience with a guide

Panoramic tour in Tabernas Desert Road trip to the desert by car

Walk through ravines

Brief tour through the desert ravines if it’s possible

Choose a complementary activity to do**: Brief hiking through the desert Visit Tabernas village Visit the Colativi peak, 1,387 metres high. 

* Indicative information that may change. The number, order and content of the stop could be modified in function of diverse facts to offer the best experience.

** There are other possibilities to do other payment or free activities in the area. These will be developed on the explicative text about the experience with the title “other activities in this experience”.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on Delicious
• Share on Google+
• Share via email
• Information

General information

Included: Private guide / Transport / Map of the province / Photos of the experience / Surprise gift Not included: Meals / Additional tickets

*This meets the content contained in this deal

It includes

Services and infrastructure

Target audiences, you may be interested.

Foodie Tour Gastronómico

Arqueología del Flamenco

Andalusia with pride

Practical guide of Andalusia

Explore andalusia.

• Discover Andalusia
• The best sun in the world
• 100% Natural
• Andalusia flavor

PLACES TO VISIT

• Almería
• Cádiz
• Córdoba
• Jaén
• Málaga

EXPERIENCES

• Active turism
• Conferences and Congresses
• Touristic Routes

TRAVEL PLAN

• Accommodations
• Guided Activities Companies
• Tour Operators and Travel Agencies

Exploring the Tabernas Desert: Europe's Wild West Adventure

The Tabernas Desert is a unique European landscape, famed as a movie set for Westerns and as a biodiversity hotspot. Here, you’ll find filming locations that transported actors to the Old West, panoramic castle views, and a chance to gaze into the cosmos. But what activities can perfectly capture its essence, and when’s the best time to visit? Our guide cuts straight to the heart of Tabernas, offering actionable insights and highlights without spoiling your sense of discovery.

Key Takeaways

The Tabernas Desert boasts unique natural features, varied climate conditions due to its surrounding topography, and a range of endemic flora and fauna that have adapted to its arid landscape.

As Europe’s only desert, Tabernas offers many attractions including historical movie sets from classic westerns, the 11th-century Castle of Tabernas, and the noteworthy Calar Alto Observatory for astronomy enthusiasts.

A broad spectrum of activities including guided tours , themed parks , independent trails, and the Almeria Racing Circuit cater to adventure seekers, while local cuisine and olive oil production reflect the desert’s agricultural richness.

Discovering the Tabernas Desert

Situated about 30 kilometres north of Almería city, the Tabernas Desert, or “Desierto de Tabernas” as it’s locally known, is a marvel of nature. Its landscape, carved by natural forces over millions of years, resembles the surface of the moon, with wind-swept crags and ancient river beds now visible as badlands. This unique environment is often referred to as “del desierto” by those who appreciate its beauty and history.

Despite its harsh, arid conditions, the Tabernas Desert is a thriving ecosystem and a protected nature reserve, housing a variety of flora and fauna that have adapted to survive in this challenging environment.

Geographical location and climate

Located between the Sierra de los Filabres to the north and the Sierra de Alhamilla to the south-southeast, the Tabernas Desert is nestled within a geographical fortress. The surrounding mountains, including:

Sierra Nevada

cast a rain shadow over the area, contributing to its unique Mediterranean, warm, and semi-arid climate.

The desert experiences less than 250 mm of annual rainfall and enjoys approximately 2900 hours of sunshine annually. The climate varies across different elevations of the Tabernas basin, with lower elevations being arid and higher altitudes experiencing a Mediterranean, cold temperate climate.

This remarkable climate variation, coupled with its unique geographical location, makes the Tabernas Desert a fascinating place for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Unique flora and fauna

The Tabernas Desert is a living testament to nature’s adaptability. Despite its arid conditions, it is home to an array of endemic species, including the unique Euzomodendron bourgeanum and rare plants like sea lavender and toadflax linaria that bloom in winter. The desert also supports a diverse fauna, housing at-risk species such as the yellow scorpion, tarantulas, and black widows, as well as mammals like the Algerian hedgehog and various rodents. Bird watchers will be delighted to spot species like common kestrels, little owls, crag martins, black-eared wheateaters, and Bonelli’s eagles, among others. Reptiles, amphibians, and insects can often be found near the seasonal rivers and dry river beds, adding to the desert’s unique biodiversity.

Unforgettable Attractions

The Tabernas Desert is not just a natural wonder; it’s also a treasure trove of unforgettable attractions. From movie sets that have seen the likes of Clint Eastwood to historical sites offering panoramic views, there’s a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered.

We will now examine these iconic attractions, highlighting what sets each one apart.

Movie sets and theme parks

Known as ‘The Hollywood of Europe’, the Tabernas Desert, a unique desert in Europe, has been a popular filming site for renowned movies like ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ and ‘Once Upon a Time in the West’. This desert has witnessed the footsteps of iconic film figures like Clint Eastwood and Sergio Leone, who immortalized it through films such as ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’.

The movie sets of Mini-Hollywood, Texas-Hollywood, and Western Leone offer a unique connection to these classic spaghetti westerns. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Wild West at Fort Bravo Texas Hollywood, with experiences ranging from stunt shows to horse carriage rides, and even dressing up in period costumes.

Winter holidays are the best times to visit the theme parks, offering a seasonal twist to the Western experience.

Castle of Tabernas

The 11th-century Nazari-style Castle of Tabernas is an intriguing historical site. Once serving as a refuge for Ferdinand and Isabel during the siege of Almeria, the castle is a monument of immense cultural interest. Reflecting the architectural heritage of the Islamic period of al-Andalus, the castle, although restored, still carries the aura of a bygone era.

The ruins of the Castle of Tabernas offer panoramic views of the nearby Sierra Nevada, the town of Tabernas, and the desert, making it an excellent spot for sightseeing and photography. A visit to this castle is not only a journey into history but also a visual treat for the eyes.

Calar Alto Observatory

For astronomy enthusiasts, a visit to the Calar Alto Observatory is a must. This observatory offers:

High-power telescopes

Unique opportunities to explore the cosmos

Guided tours providing insights into astronomical research

Access to the largest telescope on mainland Europe

Located in the Sierra de los Filabres, the observatory offers breath-taking

views over the Tabernas Desert and the mountain range of Almería Province. Whether you’re an astronomy buff or a casual stargazer, the Calar Alto Observatory offers a celestial experience that’s truly out of this world.

Adventure Awaits: Activities in the Tabernas Desert

The Tabernas Desert is a playground for adventure seekers. From guided tours and excursions to independent explorations and thrilling motor sports, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you on your toes.

We will now explore these exhilarating activities and how they can enhance your desert adventure.

Guided tours and excursions

Guided tours and excursions offer an enriching way to explore the Tabernas Desert. The local tour company, Malcaminos, offers a variety of experiences, including 4x4 guided tours that cover the film sets, the unique landscapes, and the historical backdrop of the desert.

For those seeking a more thrilling adventure, organized motorbike tours lead through the desert to explore famous movie sets, including those from the Spaghetti Westerns directed by Sergio Leone and the iconic Indiana Jones series. These tours offer an adrenaline-pumping way to navigate through the breath-taking landscapes of the desert.

Independent exploration

If you prefer to chart your own course, the Tabernas Desert offers ample opportunities for independent exploration. The desert is laced with signposted walking trails for those looking for an adventurous hike. Among these, the Ruta Circular de Western Leone is a popular choice. This 8.5 km loop typically takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes to complete, offering a rewarding and challenging experience.

Navigating through the desert’s dry riverbeds and canyons, independent hikers are met with a unique terrain that carries a sense of history and a chance to closely observe the desert’s biodiversity. However, due to the challenging terrain and scarce signage, carrying a map is recommended for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

Almeria Racing Circuit

For speed enthusiasts, the Almeria Racing Circuit offers a unique thrill. The 4.2 km track with 14 corners and a straight run of 900 meters is a haven for driving and motorcycle enthusiasts. Located near the N-340a highway a few kilometres from Tabernas village, the circuit offers stunning views of Spain’s driest desert landscapes.

The circuit is equipped with amenities including a viewing area above the pits and an onsite bar and restaurant with generous views of the course. Besides regular racing events, the Almeria Festival of Speed is a notable event that took place under challenging weather conditions, including a near sandstorm and temperatures over 45 degrees due to the Sirocco wind from the Sahara desert.

The Taste of Tabernas: Local Cuisine and Olive Oil Production

No trip to the Tabernas Desert is complete without indulging in the local cuisine and sampling the region’s award-winning olive oil. The stable temperatures throughout the growing period and low acidity in olives contribute to the high quality of olive oil from Tabernas.

We will now take a look at the culinary delights that Tabernas has to offer.

Traditional dishes and local ingredients

Tabernas’ traditional cuisine is a reflection of the local produce that thrives in the region’s unique climate. Olives, almonds, and goat cheese feature prominently in the local dishes, offering a taste of the desert’s bounty.

Some popular dishes in Tabernas include:

Gazpacho, a refreshing cold tomato soup, popular during the hot summer months

‘Migas’, a beloved local dish made with breadcrumbs, garlic, and olive oil

Heartwarming stews and casseroles made with fresh vegetables, legumes, and Iberian pork

These dishes are a staple in the diet of Tabernas’ residents.

Olive oil production and tasting

Tabernas is renowned for its high-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) production. The process includes:

Harvesting the olives between late September and November

Collecting the olives quickly at low temperatures to prevent contamination

Cold pressing the olives at temperatures below 27ºC to extract the oil

The desert climate, with its distinctive temperature and harvesting conditions, plays a significant role in the quality of the olive oil produced from olive trees. Visitors can taste different olive oil varieties, each contributing distinct flavors and aromas, during oleotourism tours organized at places like Almazara Aceite Castillo de Tabernas.

Planning Your Visit: Access, Accommodation, and Tips

Planning your visit to the Tabernas Desert is an important part of the journey. From deciding how to get there to choosing the right accommodation and knowing the best time to visit, every detail can enhance your trip.

This section is designed to provide you with the essential information needed to plan your visit.

Getting there

The main routes to access the Tabernas Desert are the A92 and N340 roads. Visitors can drive to the desert by taking the A-7/E-15 towards Njar and Almeria, then exiting in the direction of Sorbas and Tabernas, following signs along the N-340A road.

Public transportation options to the desert are limited. Visitors typically need to take a bus from Almeria to Tabernas village. The ALSA bus company operates routes that can take visitors close to the Tabernas Desert.

Accommodation options

There are a variety of accommodations near the Tabernas Desert to cater to a range of preferences and budgets, including:

Luxury resorts

Economically priced lodgings

Guesthouses

Rural accommodations

For a more immersive experience, guesthouses and rural accommodations are also available in the Tabernas area.

While there are no campsites directly in the Tabernas Desert, the nearest campsite is Camping Fort Bravo , located directly next to the Fort Bravo theme park. These accommodation options offer a comfortable base from which to embark on your desert adventure.

Travel tips and best times to visit

The optimal periods to tour the Tabernas Desert are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is milder and temperatures are more comfortable. Packing layered clothing to adjust to temperature changes, robust footwear for rough terrains, and sun protection including sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen, is highly recommended.

Travelers are also advised to carry a headlamp or flashlight for safe navigation after dark, and items like wipes and hand sanitizer for personal cleanliness when in remote desert areas. These tips can ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable desert adventure.

Spanning breath-taking landscapes, rich biodiversity, historical landmarks, and thrilling adventures, the Tabernas Desert is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. With its stark beauty, cinematic history, and gastronomic delights, it invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, an adventure enthusiast, or a foodie, the Tabernas Desert has something for everyone. So, are you ready to discover Europe’s only desert and create your own memorable Tabernas story?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is special about the tabernas desert.

The Tabernas Desert is unique as it is the only desert in Europe, receiving less than 250mm of rainfall per year, yet it is home to diverse animal and plant species that have adapted to its extreme conditions.

Is Tabernas desert worth visiting?

Yes, the Tabernas desert is well worth a visit, as it offers an impressive and unique landscape that is highly recommended for anyone in the area.

What animals live in the Tabernas desert?

The Tabernas desert is home to a variety of animals, including foxes, rabbits, hares, hedgehogs, dormice, snakes, toads, frogs, and lizards, as well as insects like grasshoppers and bees.

What is the best time to visit the Tabernas Desert?

The best time to visit the Tabernas Desert is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is milder and temperatures are more comfortable.

What kind of flora and fauna can I expect to see in the Tabernas Desert?

In the Tabernas Desert, you can expect to see unique flora such as Euzomodendron bourgeanum, sea lavender, and toadflax linaria, as well as fauna including at-risk species like the yellow scorpion, tarantulas, and black widows, along with mammals such as the Algerian hedgehog and various rodents.

Recent Posts

Donana National Park

El Caminito del Rey Málaga - The King's Path

Tabernas Desert: Uncover the Secrets of Europe’s Desert Oasis

• Travel destinations
• Mónica Rodrigues Alves
• January 25, 2024
• No Comments

Article Index

Discover the Tabernas Desert in Spain, and unleash your adventurous Spirit!

Located in the province of Almería, Andalucia, the Tabernas Desert boasts a landscape that is nothing short of extraordinary.

Step into a realm unlike any other, where sun-baked terrain and dramatic cliffs create a wilderness of untamed beauty and natural wonders begging to be discovered.

As you venture through this arid expanse, prepare to be captivated by its vastness and the blissful solitude it offers, a haven of tranquility amidst the ruggedness.

But don’t be fooled by the seemingly desolate surroundings—life thrives here. Marvel at resilient bushes, striking cacti, graceful lizards, and majestic birds of prey, reminding you of the desert’s vibrant ecosystem.

Notably, the Tabernas Desert is part of the Desierto de Tabernas Natural Park, a protected area that safeguards endangered species and their habitats.

Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey of contrasts and surprises, as the Tabernas Desert reveals its diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to serene valleys, offering an endless array of captivating discoveries.

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure immersed in the splendors of nature, the Tabernas Desert in Spain is an unrivaled destination that promises awe-inspiring experiences at every turn.

Best Things to Do and See in Tabernas Desert

Here are some of the best things to see and do in the Tabernas Desert in Almería, Spain.

Embark on an Epic Cinematic Adventure at Mini Hollywood Theme Park

Located in the breathtaking province of Almeria, Spain, lies the extraordinary Oasys Mini Hollywood park. Step into a world where the magic of movies becomes your reality.

This iconic movie studio and theme park, born in the 1960s, has played a starring role in numerous blockbusters, including Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Lawrence of Arabia, and the legendary Game of Thrones.

At Mini Hollywood, the possibilities are limitless, and creativity knows no bounds. Immerse yourself in the enchanting realm of cinema, where directors’ visions come to life and visitors become part of the action.

Prepare to be transported through time and space as you wander amidst intricate sets that recreate ancient Roman ruins, traverse the vast rolling hills of the Wild West, and venture into the mesmerizing sand dunes of the Middle East—all in a single exhilarating day.

But Mini Hollywood offers much more than cinematic marvels. It is a place where families and friends come together to create unforgettable memories. Saddle up and ride through the desert on horseback, channel your inner gunslinger at the Wild West show, or marvel at the exotic creatures at the captivating reptile park.

Indulge your sense of adventure, unleash your inner cowboy, and let Mini Hollywood be your stage for an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.

See the full article on the Oasys Mini Hollywood .

Embark on an Unforgettable Journey through the Enchanting Desierto de Tabernas Natural Park

The Desierto de Tabernas Natural Park is a protected natural area located in the province of Almería, that is, in Spain. It is a unique desert ecosystem and is known for its harsh, dry landscape and unique flora and fauna.

This unique desert ecosystem unveils a landscape like no other, characterized by its harsh yet mesmerizingly beautiful terrain, where arid plains, rocky hills, and deep gorges create a dramatic backdrop.

Spanning approximately 280 km2, the park is home to an array of extraordinary plant and animal species, many of which are exclusive to this remarkable habitat, found nowhere else in the world.

Within its borders, you’ll encounter nature’s hidden gems, from elusive creatures like the Spanish imperial eagle to the elusive Iberian lynx, both of which find sanctuary within this protected haven.

As you traverse the park’s awe-inspiring trails, immerse yourself in its natural beauty and discover its rich cultural tapestry. Uncover the ancient secrets held by the medieval castle of Tabernas, a testament to the region’s storied past.

Moreover, the Desierto de Tabernas Natural Park has become a revered cinematic backdrop, with the renowned Tabernas film studios hosting a multitude of iconic movies and TV shows.

Prepare to be captivated by a landscape that has graced the silver screen, immersing yourself in the very place where movie magic unfolds.

Embark on a journey of discovery, where nature’s wonders blend seamlessly with cultural marvels, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. The Desierto de Tabernas Natural Park awaits your exploration.

Uncover the Mysteries of Castillo de Tabernas

The Castillo de Tabernas is a medieval castle located in the province of Almeria, Spain.

It is located in the municipality of Tabernas, that is, in the heart of the Desierto de Tabernas Natural Park, a protected natural area known for its stunning landscape.

Originally constructed in the 13th century as a military stronghold, the Castillo de Tabernas played a vital role in defending the land against invasions.

Throughout the ages, it served as a sanctuary, sheltering the local population during turbulent times of war and doubling as a prison for captured foes.

Crafted from sturdy stone, the castle’s architectural grandeur is evident in its imposing walls, imposing turrets, and even a captivating moat that transports you back in time.

As you venture through its hallowed halls, immerse yourself in the castle’s intriguing past. Explore its diverse rooms, from the serene chapel to the atmospheric prison and the bustling kitchen, each whispering tales of a bygone era.

Beyond its historical significance, the Castillo de Tabernas offers a picturesque retreat, boasting breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the sprawling wonders of the Desierto de Tabernas Natural Park.

Step into a world where history comes alive, where ancient stones hold secrets, and where the splendor of the past meets the beauty of nature.

Did you know that the Tabernas Desert harbors a hidden treasure?

It’s a renowned movie city that has attracted Hollywood productions for decades.

One of the main highlights of the Tabernas Desert is its role as a coveted filming location for numerous movies and TV shows.

Hollywood productions such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Lawrence of Arabia, and even the captivating world of Game of Thrones have all utilized the mesmerizing backdrop of this desert.

To accommodate these renowned productions, the Tabernas Desert boasts a collection of impressive cinematographic studios and elaborate sets. Among them is the renowned Mini Hollywood, a cinematographic studio and theme park that provides visitors with an immersive experience into the captivating world of cinema.

Visitors have the incredible opportunity to explore some of these remarkable sets, right in the heart of the Tabernas Desert. It’s truly astonishing how these places resemble abandoned cities, but upon closer inspection, one realizes that they are remarkable movie sets.

As you wander through these awe-inspiring scenarios, you’ll be transported to different worlds, and the magic of the movies comes to life before your eyes.

Discover the intricate details of grand palaces, rugged landscapes, and fascinating structures—all meticulously preserved within the Tabernas Desert. It’s a surreal experience where reality blends seamlessly with the realm of imagination.

Unleash your adventurer within and explore the captivating allure of Hollywood intertwined with the raw beauty of Tabernas Desert.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting scenery that has captivated filmmakers and audiences alike.

Come and witness the Tabernas Desert like never before—a place where fantasy becomes reality, and dreams unfold amidst the awe-inspiring movie sets.

Step into the Wild West: Discover the Iconic Film Sets of the Tabernas Desert

As I mentioned before, one of the main attractions of the Tabernas Desert is its use as a filming location, for example, for movies and TV shows.

Among its remarkable contributions, the Tabernas Desert has served as the backdrop for an array of iconic Western films, including the legendary works of Sergio Leone, a true pioneer of the renowned “spaghetti western” genre.

Leone himself chose the Tabernas Desert as the stage for some of his most renowned creations, such as A Fistful of Dollars, A Few Dollars More, and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.

These timeless films, featuring the incomparable Clint Eastwood as the enigmatic “Man With No Name,” have not only captivated audiences but also left an indelible mark on cinematic history.

Immerse in the Wild West spirit as you explore iconic landscapes synonymous with the genre’s iconic imagery.

The Tabernas Desert stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of these Western masterpieces and continues to attract filmmakers and enthusiasts alike.

Experience the thrill of walking in the footsteps of cinematic legends, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Tabernas Desert. Capture the essence of the Wild West in the extraordinary Tabernas Desert, with its vast expanse and rugged cliffs.

Uncover the secrets of the Tabernas Desert, where imagination merges with reality, and relive the gripping tales of outlaws, bounty hunters, and lawless frontiers.

This is your opportunity to step into the heart of Western cinema and create unforgettable memories that will forever be etched in your mind.

Accomodation near Tabernas Desert

If you’re seeking an unforgettable experience near the desert, look no further than Oasis Montana peace in Tabernas Desert and Mirador Torre de la Garrofa .

These enchanting accommodations offer proximity to the desert and a tranquil ambiance that will captivate your senses.

Allow me to share my personal experience at Elba Almeria Business & Convention Hotel , a sophisticated retreat just a short drive from the desert.

With its luxurious amenities and refined atmosphere, this hotel provided the perfect sanctuary during my stay.

But the options don’t end there! Discover a myriad of incredible accommodation choices in the breathtaking Tabernas Desert region, each promising a unique and memorable experience.

So, immerse yourself in the possibilities, embark on a journey of discovery, and let the desert’s allure embrace you.

Explore the map below for additional suggestions on where to stay and indulge in the wonders of the Tabernas Desert.

Hotels near Tabernas Desert , Andalusia, Spain.

Best Tours to discover the Tabernas Desert, in Spain

There are several advantages to opting for guided tours of the Tabernas Desert rather than exploring independently. Here are some of the main benefits:

Expert Guidance : By joining a tour, you’ll benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide who can provide insightful commentary on the sights and enhance your overall experience.

Convenience : Taking a guided tour eliminates the hassle of planning and navigating on your own. Transportation to the desert and the best locations will be taken care of, which is especially beneficial if you’re unfamiliar with the area or have limited time.

Safety : Traveling with a tour operator ensures an added level of safety, as you’ll have the support of a professional team who can assist you in case of any issues or emergencies.

Access to Exclusive Experiences: Many Tabernas Desert tours offer exclusive experiences that are not available to independent travelers. For example, you may have the opportunity to embark on a thrilling 4WD adventure or enjoy horseback riding, including night rides.

With that in mind, here are my top recommendations for Tabernas Desert tours:

• Tabernas Desert 4WD Adventure : Embark on an exhilarating 4X4 jeep tour departing from Taberna. This option provides an affordable and exciting exploration of the desert.
• Horseback Riding Through the Tabernas Desert : Join a guided tour designed for individuals aged 14 and above, allowing you to experience the desert’s beauty from a unique perspective.
• Night Ride on Horseback in the Tabernas Desert : Departing from Rancho Malcaminos, this tour is ideal for those with previous riding experience, offering an unforgettable nighttime adventure.

Choose the tour that resonates with your interests and embark on an extraordinary journey through the captivating Tabernas Desert.

How to get to Tabernas Desert

If you’re traveling by car from Almeria, the best route to Tabernas Desert is to take the A-7 motorway towards the southeast.

After approximately 45 minutes, take the exit onto the A-334, following the signs for Tabernas. Continue along the A-334 for around 15 minutes until you reach Tabernas.

Once in Tabernas, simply follow the signs indicating Parque Natural Desierto de Tabernas.

Keep in mind that the Tabernas Desert is a vast area with various attractions scattered throughout. Plan ahead, allocate sufficient time to explore and make the most of your Tabernas Desert visit

*I visited the Desert of Tabernas and Almería on a Famtrip at the invitation of Turismo de Andalucia.

You May Also Like:

• Marbella , Spain: Best Beaches, Attractions, and Hotels 
• Discover Nerja (Spain): caves, beaches and other tourist attractions
• Barcelona Unveiled:  Top Attractions and Experiences in the City

We are a Portuguese Family traveling around the world and sharing our journey and experiences at  passaportenobolso.com . Here you can find plenty of family budget travel tips as well as practical information about numerous destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia and America. We have visited 30+ countries and we don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Follow our adventures on  YouTube   /   Instagram   /   Pinterest  /   Twitter   /   Facebook .

Plan your trip!

Book your trips with Passaporte no Bolso partners. The brands listed below are to be trusted, and for that reason, we recommend them!

Also, by using these links, we receive a small commission, which helps us keep the blog up to date. We appreciate the contribution!

• Hotels on Booking;
• Tours, tickets to museums, transfers to and from the airport and tourist attractions without queues and with occasional discounts on Get Your Guide;
• Tailor-made travel insurance (includes COVID-19 insurance), with service in Portuguese and other languages and with a 5% discount at IATI Seguros;

Don’t forget that we plan our trips and those of our friends so we can plan yours too! Please send us an email at [email protected].

This post may contain affiliate links.

Partilhar Artigo

Related posts.

Caminito del Rey Malaga (2024) Guide for Vertigo Warriors!

Exploring Almería, Spain: Top 10 Family Adventures in 2024!

Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park: Best Things To Do and See 2024

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Travel from a 👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 🇵🇹 exploring the 🌍! We share tips from +30 countries visited😉! We help travellers find the perfect trip❤️

[email protected]

Useful links

Subscribe to newsletter.

Subscribe to the newsletter and receive a must-have travel resource guide.

Copyright © 2015-2024 Passaporte no Bolso. All Rights Reserved

Tabernas Desert

Top ways to experience Tabernas Desert and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

Tabernas Desert - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

The Desert of Tabernas

After all these years, the day trip to the Desert of Tabernas is still one of my favourite getaways in Spain. This is because the tour is incredibly rich in variety, and the small adventuress in me enjoys a day out on her playing field.

Personally, I would always go on a guided desert tour to explore the desert – whether on foot, by Jeep, or by going the whole Lucky-Luke-Western hog on horseback.

The guys from Malcaminos do a terrific job with their Tabernas Desert Tour. During their guided tours, they let you in on all the secrets about the only desert in Spain. Oh, wait, that’s nonsense: it is, in fact, the only desert throughout Europe. The Malcaminos live and work in this beautiful spot Tabernas near Almería and, therefore, know the Desert of Tabernas like the back of their hands. And you’d be absolutely up the creek without a paddle without them and their boss, Cristina. Driving through the desert is strictly prohibited, and it can be dangerous, too. Hiking through the desert may be a wonderful experience, but you don’t get to see much at that speed … unless you’re a marathon runner 🙂

So, while you’re making yourself comfortable in the back seat of Cristina’s Jeep, she’s already firing some facts about the desert’s origin and history at you. As you drive past something, she’ll explain to you, what you’re actually looking at … More often than not, you only spot the wonders upon closer look. But if you thought, you could let Cristina’s info wash over you all snug in the back seat, you have another think coming. To see the most fascinating things, you need to get out of the car, leave the way and feel, taste and experience them with all your remaining senses. Far better, than just driving past them.

Let me mention that the matchless and felicitous Malcaminos Tabernas Desert Tour in a 4×4 costs €35 p.P. and is worth every penny!

Have you ever touched a mountain that just crumbles under your hands?

Difficult to imagine – but the bone-dry Desert of Tabernas eked out a submerged existence for most of its time. Millions of years ago, the mountains were below the Mediterranean Sea level. Today, traces of former sea dwellers can still be found in the sandstone layers. The rocks are full of fossil shells, starfish, and other marine creatures – all preserved since donkey’s years and here to stay for good.

Now, if you’re asking yourself why the sea has long since receded and what treasures it has left behind – Cristina and her staff are happy to explain this to you during the tour through the desert. Let me put it this way: it’s super exciting! But I can’t give the show away beforehand, can I 😉

The mountains are very interesting as it is. The individual sediment layers are easy to recognize even for the untrained eye. At a first glance, the mountains in the desert appear to be solid. However, closer inspection, along with a determined grasp, shows that the “rock” just crumbles between your fingers. That’s because the mountains mainly consist of sand. Millions of years of exposure to rain and wind have shaped sensational forms that resemble a reptile, a chessboard, or the head of a turtle. This meter-high sand creation peers down from a mountain. The Desert of Tabernas is clearly one of Europe’s most fascinating landscapes. So it’s not without reason that this region is a haven for many geologists and other explorers – and tourists who, like me, sometimes just need to indulge in their spirit of discovery a bit.

Ugh! Did I get that right? You want me to eat plants?!

It would appear that life is impossible in these austere conditions. Far from it! Despite the hot and dry climate, the Desert of Tabernas is bustling with animal and herbal life. Plants and animals are often true survivors and more adaptable than us humans. The most peculiar plants grow here that have adapted to the hostile climate. For instance, bushes whose thorns keep animals and, unfortunately, my humble self, too, at bay and that look so dry that they cannot possibly have a lick of life left in them. Little ground covers that live on the rising groundwater – as it hardly ever rains, there are no supplies from above.

You will also find the typical Andalusian esparto grass here, oleander, thyme, prickly pear (cactus), and a whole slew of “parasitic plants”. Cristina tells me en route that they parasitize other plants with their roots to get food and water – the reason why they’re called parasites.

So while Cristina unblinkingly speeds through the Tabernas’ ramblas in her 4×4, you’ll come past one or the other white puddle, although it hasn’t rained. That’s the rising groundwater that I already mentioned. “Yeah, sure, but why is it white?” I can hear you say. Well, let me tell you that I learned it the hard way: Cristina asked me to rub my finger over a succulent’s leaf and to lick my finger afterwards. Or – briefly – to just lick the plant directly. Ugh, my word, that was salty! It was then that it hit me like a bolt, to WHAT EXTENT flora and fauna had to adjust for centuries to survive here. The weather in the Desert of Tabernas, the heat, sun, drought, and then that dwindling bit of utterly oversalted water … Not a good precondition for a life in abundance.

Speaking of life: derelict ruins, a windmill, and a freshwater channel are silent witnesses that people once lived here – even if not entirely voluntarily.

A tiny excursion into Spanish history

At the time when the first people settled in this region, the desert was not yet what it is today. It sure was a hostile but also a very valuable region, that only gradually turned into a desert. It was hostile because the groundwater was salty and climatic conditions were extremely complex.

When and why did people settle in the Desert of Tabernas in the first place, if it was so hostile to life?

To answer that, we need to go on a short trip which takes us back into the late 15th and early 16th century in Spanish history. At the end of the 15th century, the Spanish reconquest came to an end and the Moors, who lived on the Iberian Peninsular, were forced to convert to Christianity. Some of them fled to what we only know as a desert to avoid harassment and repression. Nestled between the mountains, they founded little villages and tried to turn over a new leaf.

These people had know-how about water usage accumulated over generations. They knew how to build a system to redirect and store the sparse (rain)water. They used the water to irrigate their fields to cultivate wheat. Rainwater, hence fresh water, was like gold for the desert dwellers.

But as the hostile environment turned more and more into the desert we know today, and the rainfall gradually subsided and eventually stopped altogether at the beginning of the 20th century, people left the Desierto and never returned.

The Desert of Tabernas and animals – a paradise for all things that do creep and fly

The biggest animal you come across in the desert is the fennec fox. It is about the size of a big cat or a small dog – so it really is not that big and scary.

What most people are afraid of, however, are snakes. Unjustified in my opinion because these aren’t aggressive killer monster snakes 😉

Snakes have a natural enemy: the Snake Eagle. If the Snake Eagle successfully hunts a snake and then rises in the air with its prey in its claws … that’s simply a jaw-dropping experience.

And because the desert is home to zillions of insects, there are many bird species. It’s a haven for bird-watchers … A striking beauty is the Bee-eater. Other than the name may suggest, it also has wasps, dragonflies and cicadas on its daily menu. Just look at the picture! Isn’t it gorgeous? After the breeding season, we’ve got so many of them in our region – I could watch them all day.

The desert of Tabernas: film set and location

But when Cristina pulls out her iPad at the latest, it’s time for another highlight: an introduction to film history. Not only the desert, but the entire province of Almeria is one large film location. In the 1960s and 1970s, Sergio Leone (director) and Ennio Morricone (film music) team made lots of Spaghetti Western movies in Tabernas. The three Western villages, that can still be visited today, also date back to this period. It is here, in the Wild West of Tabernas, that Clint Eastwood started his career after Charles Bronson had become too expensive for the Dollars Trilogy. And you always have the tune of “Once Upon a Time in the West” stuck in your head 🙂

This is where Cristina’s job ends, and we address ourselves as “Western”. Just one more thing: Since very recently, Malcaminos also offers a Tabernas Desert Horse Riding Tour. So, if you’d like to get that proper Cowboy-feeling, you can do the Desert Tour on horseback.

Fancy a little anecdote about the film hotspot Tabernas Hollywood?

Recently, I e-met Helen in one of my online courses. As it happens, Helen’s grandmother used to live here. And Helen dropped a right bombshell? Her grandmother once met Sean Connery at Almeria airport, the nearest airport to Tabernas. Imagine me, for once, being at a complete loss for words. Well, he used to come here for shooting regularly, for instance, for “James Bond – Never say never”. In addition, he also came to Tabernas to shoot Indiana Jones and the last Crusade.

“Lawrence of Arabia” with Peter O’Toole, “Game of Thrones” and – drum roll – almost all Movies from Bully Herbig were filmed here. And Helge Schneider gave a concert a couple of years ago. You might not know this German cabaret artist. “Why on earth are you telling me this”, I can hear you think. Because on the ticket was a picture of him on the gallows. And that picture was made here in Tabernas in Fort Bravo. Since then, I dream of The Boss Hoss following suit with a concert in Fort Bravo – they’ve already got the cowboy hats, so you never know … In fact, I’ve already written to the management. But they wanted to see some money in advance, probably as security, which I don’t happen to keep under my pillow right now. But as you know, while there’s life, there’s hope 🙂

However, let’s get back to the western villages …

Which western village offers what?

Fort Bravo in Tabernas is the only remaining western village that is still used for making movies regularly. The film set is in very good condition. In the saloon you can enjoy a whisky as you watch lightly dressed ladies swing their legs to the Cancan in the saloon while cowboys are riding around outside – when, all of a sudden, a wounded cowboy, who managed to collect a bullet, staggers into the saloon. And … ACTION! And just like that, you’re right in the middle of one of the famous Tabernas Desert movies 🙂

Every October, the vast grounds of Fort Bravo are the venue of the Tabernas Western Film Festival. Lots of actors visit the festival, quite often some stars from the former Spaghetti Western. In 2018, the committee welcomed the still wonderful Claudia Cardinale.

The entrance fee for Fort Bravo is around €20 p.p. and includes a carriage ride. For some, that may seem a lot, but running a facility like this costs a fair amount of money … and it’s money well spent for western enthusiasts.

Watch this video to get a first impression.

OASYS Mini Hollywood in Tabernas is very much a family theme park which comes with a western village, swimming pool and a zoo. The film set is in excellent condition. Those who love western shows, will definitely get their money’s worth. There’s a bank robbery every day along with the whole enchilada: first the robber ends up behind bars, then on the gallows – until his accomplices free him. Not without mucho-banging, of course. A massive spectacle! There’s also a great exhibition of original film props and a western film museum.

You can get a smack of the gun smoke in this promo video .

Although the entrance fee is slightly higher than Fort Bravo, it offers much to families who can easily spend the entire day here.

As the name suggests, the very Sergio Leone himself had this village built for his movies. Bud Spencer and Terence Hill were also here to make a film. Today, sadly, it is the most deserted of the remaining western villages. But the entrance fee of €12 is well below the other villages’ fees.

By the way, you can do a great tour through the village on horseback – once in the saddle you get that instant western feeling!

Terence Hill received an award for his work in Almería in 2016 and was a guest at the Almería Western Film Festival.

And what else is there to see in Tabernas – apart from the desert?

People say, the journey is its own reward. So we’ve got a proper secret way for your trip to Tabernas up our sleeves.

I’ll give you the directions with a helping look at Google here at the Cortijo. It’s a very small road that doesn’t seem at all tempting at first glance. It “only” leads through a beautiful, very diverse scenery. You drive through a small ancient tunnel, stray from the right path only to speed through the Rambla like a daredevil. But only very briefly – don’t worry! … and on a side note: so far none of our guests has met anyone on this road. The road may well be an insider tip for our locals 🙂

When you arrive in Lucainena from Polopos (doesn’t it sound like a Greek word?) via this beautiful route through untouched nature, you can stop at the old ironwork before you continue your journey to Tabernas.

The furnaces are in good condition. You get quite a good impression of how people used to work here in its time. The processed iron was shipped all over the world from the now closed port of Agua Amarga. You’ve actually driven on the former railway line leading to the port. It has been transformed into a “Via Verde” – a cycle and hiking trail that takes you through this paradisiacal speck of land.

Tabernas village: truly scrumptious lunch specials

There’s a little bridge further down in the village. Right next to it is the Bar El Puente – my absolute favourite bar and a true insider tip. It has a scrummy lunch special at a very reasonable price. It’s mostly only €10 – wine included! Once in a while, they serve proper Almerian traditional cooking. It may not be the healthiest, what Alermía has to offer, but – you can take my word for it – it’s absolutely delicious. And the service is unparalleled: the boss is all smiles and serves his wife’s food with the same passion that his wife applies for cooking. I always like to remember a lunch I had with 2 bloggers here: the boss served a never ceasing stream of food – we had to try everything. The result was a car with a little overload and three women with very happy faces 🙂

Oro del Desierto: organic olive oil at its best

You might have noticed along your journey from Mojacar to Tabernas that the way is lined with olive groves. The “Gold of the Desert”, one of the world’s best organically produced extra virgin olive oils, is produced here in Tabernas at the oil mill Almanzara de Tabernas by the family Alonso. And they’ve already received several awards. A late satisfaction given that the whole village once laughed at the grandfather for his idea. Organic farming wasn’t really fashionable in this area, and it hasn’t really changed much, to be honest 😉

What I find absolutely fascinating is the fact that even the tiniest bit of the harvest is used. What doesn’t stand up to the demands of the top products, is fed to the animals or used as compost. Even the pits are made to pellets for heating. Zero waste – if that’s not sustainable, I don’t know what is!!!

You will learn all this and heaps more at the “Oro del Desierto” museum, where the three Alonso gentlemen are happy to explain the difference between the production of the past and today – free of charge. It goes without saying that you can taste all the different olive oils. And to top it all off, there’s also the Oro del Desierto Restaurante which somehow is only the logical consequence.

Obviously, the family is pleased when you buy a bottle of Tabernas olive oil to take home with you. After all, this is how they finance the informative, free guided tours. My personal tip: the olive oil “Coupage” from Arbequina, Hojiblanca and Picual. But taste it yourself and let me know which one you liked best.

Central Solar de Tabernas

In recent years, sustainability has not only become fashionable because of the family Alonso. The Plataforma Solar de Almería is one of the world’s largest research, development and test centres for solar power technologies. And not without reason: the Tabernas weather on average has more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, making this region excellently suited for this. More than 20,000 square metres of solar panels are installed on the more than 100-hectare area.

Those wanting to dive deeper into the topic of sustainable solar energy will find an information centre, lectures and a tour of the plant with the relevant explanations. All others can happily do something better with their time.

Circuito de Nueva Andalucía: Europe’s sunniest circuit

Do you get weak in the knees at the thought of lots of horsepower? Then the Circuito de Nueva Andalucía is just right for you – the racetrack with the most hours of sun in Europe.

This is where products are tested, commercials are shot, and our bikers are always happy to put the pedal to the metal. Every year in January we look forward to our motorbike groups and THEY look forward to our surroundings, landscape and one of the best racing tracks in Europe. Forget Silverstone 😉

What’s more, you’ll encounter the topic of horsepower on almost every corner. If you move around in the province of Almería, you will inevitably come across the so-called “Erlkönig” – prototypes of cars concealed beyond recognition. Almost all car makes put their cars, motorbikes, lorries and everything else on four wheels with a motor through their paces. But no matter how well they are masked – the trained eyes of the locals always know exactly which brand is putting a new model to the acid test.

And with that we now come to the end of a long day’s excursion, with the most important attractions in Tabernas.

A little extra tip for your trip from Mojacar to the Desert of Tabernas

There are a few things to keep in mind for this day trip:

• Sturdy shoes are the real deal – for once you can leave your flip-flops at home
• Take cash with you, that’s the best way to pay for the Jeep Tour
• Take sufficient water with you. It’s going to be hot …
• Book the Malcaminos Jeep Tour in advance!!!

The Desert of Tabernas – facts and figures

Yvonne Schnoor

The blog of Cortijo El Sarmiento will be written and maintained mostly by me; I’m Yvonne, taking care of your reservations, as well as being your attendant on-site.

Der Blog von Cortijo El Sarmiento wird hauptsächlich von mir geschrieben und gepflegt, ich bin Yvonne und kümmere mich um deine Reservierungen und bin auch deine Ansprechpartnerin vor Ort.

Als Weinliebhaber und Sonnenanbeter hat es mich – zusammen mit Carsten – im Jahr 2014 nach Andalusien verschlagen. Natürlich haben wir uns schon vorher in die Region verliebt, aber aus der Leidenschaft für die Provinz Almería und Andalusien im Allgemeinen ist irgendwann dieser Blog entstanden.

Ich bin weder professionelle Journalistin noch Schriftstellerin. Alles, was hier entsteht, kommt von Herzen, ist immer meine persönliche Meinung und erhebt keinen Anspruch auf Vollständigkeit. :-)

Profis sind wir in unserem Job. Wir sind Gastgeber in unserem wunderschönen Refugium in Mojácar. Wenn ihr uns kennenlernen wollt, freuen wir uns auf euren Besuch und organisieren gerne alle Ausflüge, über die ich hier berichte. Bitte habt Verständnis dafür, dass wir diesen Service nur für Gäste anbieten können, die bei uns wohnen.

Zu unseren wunderschönen Zimmern geht es hier…

Recent Posts

Sustainable Holidays

Wines from Almería

Andalusian delicacies: first up – Jamon Iberico

Holiday in Andalusia: When’s the best time to visit?

Polvorones and Mantecados: Biscuits from Almería

Cheap flights to almeria: which airports are the best deal in 2024.

Ready to spice up your knowledge about Andalusian food?

Download our e-book now and get the inside scoop!

• Discover the tastiest local specialties,
• Get to know our regional wines,
• and learn all about the eating habits in Andalusia.

We’ll even spill the beans on how to impress the locals and avoid any embarrassing moments.

After reading this book, you’ll be a total pro on Spanish eating habits and you’ll be able to wave goodbye to your guiri image forever!

We hate spam as much as you do, so be assured your email address stays with us and will not be passed to third parties.

You may also like

Adults-Only Holiday: What to expect and your main benefits

A new life in the sun – our immigration to Andalusia

Lamb Shanks with honey- infused Polenta is pure soulfood

Stay connected stay updated stay tuned.

Sign up for our newsletter to receive our news, deals & special offers.

• Español ( Spanish )
• Nederlands ( Dutch )
• Deutsch ( German )
• Français ( French )

Sign up here to download your free e-book “Food in Andalusia” ...

Spice up your knowledge of andalusian food..

• About Almeria

Tabernas Desert

Desierto de Tabernas

Situated between the Sierra de los Filabres in the north and the Sierra de Alhamilla in the south east, an exhilarating and overwhelming sight to behold. An area of badlands, this natural desert landscape is a geological marvel that has been millions of year in the making. 

This place is awesome, you really have to see it to believe it. A must do destination in Almeria.

Quick links - Tabernas Desert:

• The desert - history - landscapes - fauna

Tabernas village

• The Solar Platform of Almeria - solar energy plant
• Tabernas motor racing circuit - festival of speed
• Tabernas olive oil - Oro del Desierto and Castillo de Tabernas
• Exploring the desert - theme parks - movie locations - guided tours

Choose Tabernas desert for adventure

Wild west desert adventures, on foot, horse back or by 4x4 vehicle, by guided tours or independent explorations... Motor car and motor bike racing, the ultimate adrenaline fuelled ride... Observe the views from Tabernas village hilltop castle... Sample the local dishes, specially prepared using the acclaimed local olive oil...

Desert landscapes and origins

Today, the parched landscape receives a considerably high concentration of sun exposure per year, with summer temperatures constantly exceeding forty degrees. The rainfall is infrequent yet torrential when it occurs, often creating seasonal flash floods in the normally dry river beds, these downpours have carved out the dramatic trenches and tubular holes that give the desert its unusual moon like effect.

Fauna of the desert

Although the environment is quite inhospitable there are in fact some species of animals and reptiles, mainly rabbits, rodents, lizards and snakes, that thrive here. The desert is an Area of Special Protection for the wide variety of birds that have found their shelter in the ravines, species to be spotted include Bee-eaters, Warblers, Crag martins, the Trumpeter finch and Dupont's lark. Birds of prey, such as the Peregrine Falcon and Bonelli's Eagle, from the Sierra Alhamilla mountain range use the desert as their hunting territory.

Tabernas village and castle

Situated on the edge of a deep ravine at the foot of the Alhamilla mountain range, Tabernas village was originally a place for Roman troops to stop and rest during military campaigns, a tradition which continued through the centuries and civilisations that followed, many taverns were built in the area to welcome visitors, thus giving Tabernas its name.

Tabernas castle sits on a hilltop above the village, dating back to the 11th century and of Nazari style it is now a site of cultural interest, though mostly in ruins the castle can be visited to appreciate the panoramic views. Local folklore decrees it was here that the last Moorish king surrendered to the Catholic kings, Fernando and Isobel, in 1489. Tabernas village is easily accessible from the main N-340a and only a thirty minute drive from Almeria airport.

The Solar Platform of Almeria

External link Provided to help visitors make the most of the area. The link will open in a separate page.

The Solar Platform of Almeria , for further information on Almerias solar energy plant and guided visit options, the website is available in English.

Tabernas - racing circuit

The Almeria racing circuit is situated beside the N-340a highway a few kilometres from Tabernas village. This fast and exhilarating circuit welcomes both cars and bikes, the 4.2km track is well laid out with 14 corners and a straight run of 900m, the circuit also places much emphasis on safety with large run off areas.

The viewing area, situated above the pits, extends to over 200 metres making it possible to see almost the entire circuit give or take a corner or two. Away from the pit area the onsite bar and restaurant also provides generous views of the course.

The Almeria Festival of speed

The festival welcomed and encouraged all types of car or bike to attract people who would not normally consider entering a track event, the contestants participating for the Almeria Speed Trophy 2012.

Entry forms and particulars were available from Spectrum fm radio station prior to the day. Spectrum fm reported that at midday the event had over 2,000 people in attendance, fantastic, however by mid afternoon, about the same time that I arrived on location, a Sirocco wind from the Sahara desert of North Africa brought a near sandstorm to the track as well as temperatures of over 45 degrees which did play havoc with the cars and the crowds.

Tabernas - Olive oil

Tabernas is famed for its award winning Olive oil, the desert climate conditions make for an exceptional environment for the tree to thrive and produce a top class yield particularly as temperatures remain stable during the whole olive growing and ripening period.

The olive tree has been in existence for a few thousand years and been know by many civilisations yet it was the Egyptians that first produced an oil using methods similar in nature to the process used in Almeria up to only a few decades ago, though production techniques have since improved with advancements in technology.

The Arabs can be thanked for introducing the olive tree to the Iberian peninsular, and today there are two first class olive farms situated in Tabernas both making their own quality product.

Almazara Museo - Los Albardinales

The building has since been restored and provides visitors with a tasteful and combined experience of regional gastronomy. The museum presents the evolution of the olive oil production process in the Mediterranean with displays of the mechanisms used, the restaurant an opportunity to taste and sample local dishes where olives and olive oil are the distinguished ingredient, and the deli offers a chance to purchase from the Oro del Desierto collection.

LOCATED: By the side of the N-340a highway at km 474. OPENING TIMES: Every day except Thurday, 9am - 6pm.

Almazara Castillo de Tabernas

The mill offers cultural guided tours and an insight into the olive oil production process, allowing visitors to see for themselves the different stages in the development of the oil and preparation of the olive when it comes to the mill. Naturally the Castillo de Tabernas olive oil is available for purchase.

LOCATED: By the side of and signposted along the N-340a highway approximately 10km from Tabernas village, in the direction of Sorbas. OPENING TIMES: Every day except Sunday, 9am till 2pm.

External links Provided to help visitors make the most of the area. The links will open in a separate page.

El Oro del Desierto website, with further information of the organic farming methods used for the production of the eco friendly olive oil, the website is detailed in English.

Castillo de Tabernas website with product information and online shop, the website is detailed in Spanish with the option to change the language to English.

Castillo de Tabernas guided tour the website is detailed in Spanish with the option to change the language to English.

Exploring the desert

Guided tours and independent adventures.

The cinematic history of Almeria is celebrated in a collection of wild west tourist attractions which are located in the desert and are collectively known as Mini Hollywood, the once humble film studios have now grown into extremely popular family tourist attractions.

Guided excursions in the Tabernas desert

Malcaminos, a specialist tour guide in the area, provides several route options within the desert which are all detailed on their website, the tours are available in English.

4 x 4 Guided trips in Tabernas

Movie location tours from Malcaminos. Themed desert routes - highlighting movie locations with plenty of information about the desert environment, and its flora and fauna.

Guided Hiking trails - Horse riding trails - Camel Treks

Hiking - Horse riding - Camel treks advertised by Malcaminos. Alternative tour options - including desert trails that provide information about the geological characteristics, history and flora and fauna of the desert.

Independent walking in the Tabernas desert

For the independent explorer there are signposted walking trails available, though it must be emphasised that venturing outside of these routes is not recommended. Of equal importance, please note that vehicles are not permitted into the desert interior.

Explore the desert landscapes on foot, on one of the regions signposted walking trails.

Independant driving route - Ruta del Cine de Tabernas

Take a guided drive through a world of cinema and visit the locations where great movie directors and actors have filmed their movie scenes, Sergio Leone, Orson Welles, Steven Spielberg, Clint Eastwood, Brigitte Bardot, Peter O’Toole, Richard Burton, Henry Fonda .... to name but a few.

Over half of the feature films that have been registered in the province of Almeria have developed part of their scenes in the Tabernas desert and the surrounding Filabres-Alhamilla region, where the variety of landscapes include desert ravines, the heights of Sierra de Alhamilla and the typical towns of Sierra de los Filabres.

Malcaminos tours, a specialist in the area, have provided a fully documented driving route, Ruta Principal Tabernas-Polopos, specifically targeting the filming spots of the region. Promoted by MANCOMUNIDAD, the Commonwealth of Municipalities for the Development of Interior Towns Sierra Alhamilla - Filabres, their website links to a PDF file, in English, which details the Malcamino route, with photos and movie locations. External link Provided to help visitors make the most of the area. The link will open in a separate page.

Ruta Principal Tabernas-Polopos Villages : Tabernas - Castro de Filabres - Velefique - Senes - Tahal - Alcudia de Monteagud - Benitagla - Benizalon - Uleila del Campo - Lucainena de las Torres - Polopos - Puntal de Polopos. Length : 155 km Starting point :Tabernas village main square.

Tabernas Desert – the only desert in Europe

• Share on Facebook

Did you know that there is a desert in Europe? If not, then you wouldn’t know that the only desert in Europe can be found right here in Spain!

Read on for more information about Europe’s only desert and where to find it…

Some of the links below are affiliate links meaning we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you choose to make a purchase via one of these links.

Where is the Tabernas Desert?

The Tabernas Desert is located in the province of Almería in Southern Spain, approximately 30km north of the provincial capital Almería and 50km from the seaside town of Mojacar .

It is often referred to as the only true desert in Europe, covering an area of approximately 280 square kilometers (110 square miles) it has to be seen to be believed!

Is the Tabernas Desert worth visiting?

If you find yourself in the Almeria area then a visit to the Tabernas Desert is definitely worth it. It’s like no other place in Spain (or Europe!) so is worth a stop for a few hours to explore.

What is the Tabernas Desert like?

Receiving less than 250 mm3 of rainfall per year, the Tabernas Desert is known for its distinctive desert landscape, arid, with barren hills, dry riverbeds, and vast stretches of desert sand. Tabernas desert weather is hot, dry and in the summer months very humid.

If you stop in the desert and take a walk, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped onto another planet. There are high rock formations, cliffs, and caves, along with cacti, aloe vera, and many strange looking plants. Despite its harsh conditions, there is quite a lot of plant and animal species here, with several plant and animal species adapted to survive in this arid environment. Some of the plant species found here, you might be lucky enough to spot a desert fox, Mediterranean tortoise, or various other reptiles.

10 day trips from Alicante – places to visit within an hour of Alicante

Share on Facebook Tweet it Pin it Email If you’re new to the Costa Blanca, or are looking for an area with lots to do, the areas surrounding Alicante are definitely places to add to your list of Spanish destinations. You definitely won’t be short of places to go for day trips from Alicante city….

Where to find pink blossoms on the Costa Blanca

Share on Facebook Tweet it Pin it Email We recently shared some photos on social media of some beautiful blossom we found and we had a lot of people asking where to find it. We struggled a lit bit ourselves as we knew the rough location but didn’t really know where we were going. Eventually…

What are the Costa Blanca’s Moors & Christians fiestas all about?

Share on Facebook Tweet it Pin it Email It’s that time of the year again on the Costa Blanca – the Moors and Christians fiestas, or Moros y Cristianos in Spanish. These are some of our favourite Spanish fiestas and are always well worth a watch. Wherever you are on the Costa Blanca, you will…

10 good reasons to visit Jávea

Share on Facebook Tweet it Pin it Email There are lots of places in Spain that we hadn’t ever visited before moving here, and Jávea is one of them. We’ve visited the town twice since moving to Spain and it’s become one of our favourite places to visit on the Costa Blanca. There are so…

Is it worth visiting Spain in the Winter?

Share on Facebook Tweet it Pin it Email Typically most people will come on holiday to Spain during the summer months, to take advantage of the weather and also to get away during the school summer holidays. But, if you don’t want to stick to the school holidays, is it worth visiting Spain in the…

11 castles to visit on the Costa Blanca

Share on Facebook Tweet it Pin it Email Family holidays to the Costa Blanca are usually spent on the region’s amazing, sandy beaches but it’s not all beaches and palm trees in this region, there’s also a rich and very interesting history. If you want to learn a bit about the history of the Costa…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

We have received your request correctly.

You will receive an email with a summary of your bookings.

Can't find it? Leave us your email and we'll send you a summary of your bookings.

Tabernas Desert Horse Riding Tour

• 9.60 / 10 55 reviews | 559 travellers It was awesome. Horses where beautiful and well taken care of. Was surprised to hear how old they where, they looked so so good for their old age. And they where so friendly and easy to control. Guide was so cool and friendly. A good ranch Under the sun. Cannot imagine what could have been better. 10 Tiit
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
• X (Twitter)

Ride through stunning equestrian trails on our Tabernas Desert Horse Riding Tour. You'll trot through one of Almería's most breathtaking areas, and the most arid landscape in Europe.

Description

To begin our activity, we'll meet at the ranch. This spot can be easily accessed by following the asphalt road that starts at the Visitor Centre on Calle Alcazaba in Tabernas .

Once both riders and horses are ready, we'll start our horseback ride through the Tabernas Desert along the  Owl Valley path . During this 3.7-mile (6 km) route, we'll pass through the Benavides Wadi and many other symbolic places in this arid setting.

As we ride, we'll tell you about some of the TV series and films shot in the Tabernas Desert, including Game of Thrones , Indiana Jones , Exodus and many other Hollywood blockbusters. The European Film Academy has declared this place a Treasure of European Film Culture due to its fame in the Seventh Art.

In addition, we'll discuss the history and geology of the Tabernas Desert . The landscapes of this Protected Natural Area, unique in Spain, cover an area of 110 square miles (280 square km). Many animals and plants also live here as, even though it may seem strange to us, they have adapted to this arid terrain and now thrive in this habitat. When we see these species, we'll make sure to point them out so you can take a look.

We'll finish our 2-hour horse riding tour upon our return to the ranch where we began.

More Information

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

English–speaking guide

Horse riding helmet

When to book?

You can book up until 24 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• Printed material is avoided.
• The activity helps the conservation of biodiversity.
• The activity helps the dissemination of local cultural heritage.
• No single-use plastics are used.
• No printing of documentation required.
• Promotes local employment.
• Has a gender equality policy.
• Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Malcaminos Show more

Corporate name: Malcamino’s S.L.

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - What happens if there are adverse weather conditions?

A - In the case of adverse weather conditions, the tour will be suspended and we'll offer you the possibility to do the tour on an alternative date.

Q - Is there a weight restriction in order to ride the horses?

A - The maximum weight is 110 kg (240 pounds) per person, and you'll have to be in fairly good physical shape in order to ride.

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - Your safety is our priority. Civitatis works with certified providers for reliable and safe adventures. More information

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Terrera Ventura and Tabernas Desert Visitor Centre

You may also be interested in

Oasys Minihollywood Theme Park Ticket

Tabernas Desert Jeep Tour

Tabernas Desert Hike

Login to add activities to your favorites and access them from any device

This site is reCAPTCHA protected and Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Basic information regarding personal data protection

Person responsible for the processing: CIVITATIS TOURS, S.L. (CIVITATIS). Purpose: Provision of the services requested; Sending commercial communications about CIVITATIS products and services, for which commercial profiles of our customers may be drawn up; Sending surveys in order to assess the services offered and their degree of satisfaction, as well as the publication of opinions about the service received; Compliance with accounting, legal, fiscal and administrative obligations; Publication of customer images and processing of data for statistical purposes. Rights: You have the right to access, rectify and delete data, to limit its processing, to oppose its processing and to its portability. Additional Information: You can consult additional information on Data Protection in the General Terms and Conditions .

Log in to rate the opinions of other travelers

• Search for a holiday home
• Spain information
• Advertise property

In order to give you the best search results, please select a destination before searching, e.g. "Costa del Sol" or "Barcelona"

In order to give you the best search results, please select an arrival and return date before searching.

More search options

Tabernas Desert: a visit to Hollywood in Almería

The only real desert in Europe lies in the barren interior of the Costa de Almería and is a real surprise. The sun shines for over 3,000 hours a year and it hardly ever rains (less than 240 mm annual rainfall). Temperatures range from -5 to 48 °C!  

Video Fort Bravo

Nature lovers, hikers and people who are looking for a big, exotic American-type scenery, fall in love with this wild barren landscape of eastern Andalusia. That's right, America! The dusty badlands between Tabernas and Gador bring to mind dark tales from Arizona, California, and the Wild West . 

The desert, of approximately 280 square kilometers, is a protected natural park and has attracted film crews since the 1950s.

The unique landscape has brought wealth and fame and made the area known worldwide.

Tabernas, A Desirable Location

The Andalusian province of Almería has staked its claim in the international film history , as a cinematic location. One of the most important venues is the desert of Tabernas , where many film sets are constructed.

The film village of Fort Bravo is picturesquely situated by a canyon and is only accessible by an adventurous ride through a dry valley, where you pass the border post, pay the entrance and park at the gates of the Fort, which welcomes you to the movie village.

You really have to rub your eyes a little to believe that you are here in Europe. The cacti, the vastness of the terrain, the dazzling light that bathes the scene and the ghostly tense atmosphere of the film village makes the trip a memorable one.

The Tabernas Desert - film location for Once Upon a Time in the West, Indiana Jones, Lawrence of Arabia and Exodus - film successes made in Andalusia

The famous spaghetti westerns of the 60s and 70s are almost invariably originated in Tabernas.

This land has seen some of the greatest legends of the silver screen, such as Charles Bronson, Claudia Cardinale, Brigitte Bardot, Clint Eastwood, Steve McQueen, Yul Brynner, Faye Dunaway, Sean Connery, Bud Spencer, Terence Hill, Gregory Peck and Harrison Ford , they have all reenacted their stories in the Andalusian dust. All the greatest gunslingers in film history have filmed here in Spain.

Under the direction of the Italian cult director Sergio Leone , spaghetti westerns emerged as the Dollars Trilogy starring Clint Eastwood: A Fistful of Dollars and For a Few Dollars More (1965) or the classic; The Good, the Bad and the Ugly from 1966.

Those who know the saloon scenes from Karl May movies will have so many eye-opening experiences in the saloon of Fort Bravo. You may even see his whiskey glass sliding along the counter as in the old movie.

What many do not know, that one of the main Indiana Jones movies, The Last Crusade , was filmed in Almería. The dry Ramblas witnessed the actors Harrison Ford and Sean Connery in heavy armor battling against the Nazis, as were the scenes of Petras.

The really big breakthrough for the Andalusian desert as a film set came with the filming of Lawrence of Arabia with Peter O'Toole. 

This exotic desert landscape in the middle of Europe inspired many filmmakers who now have moved their projects to the parched lands of Andalusia.

To date, the lonely villages, hilltops and dusty desert landscapes of Tabernas are used as venues. Even commercials for car industry were filmed here, like the new Peugeot Partner 2015 spot .

A list of all the films made at  Fort Bravo, about 600 in total, can be found on the website, set amongst the colorful backdrop of the villages, (in Spanish and English).

The most important films from the Tabernas:

• Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
• A Fistful of Dollars (1965)
• Once Upon a Time in the West (1968)
• Trinity Is Still My Name (1971)
• Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
• Winnetou Return (1998)
• Dance of the Vampires (2001)
• Lucky Luke and the Daltons (2004)
• Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014)

In 2014 Ridley Scott filmed his epic, Exodus , where 2,000 dark-haired amateur actors were sought for scenes, such as the migration of Jews under the leadership of Moses. Between 80 and 100 euros could be earnt everyday. Some extras love their roles so much that they seem to grow into in real life.

Rafael , from the neighboring town of Tabernas, has worked on the sets of Fort Bravo for over 20 years as a full-time movie cowboy. He has worked as a coachman, whipping boy, bank robber and sheriff. He provides visitors with live saloon enactments. Rafael can ride, shoot, spin his gun and can look Indian, Mexican, or as a gun slinging cowboy.

He can be found amongst the scenery of the Pueblo Mexicano (Mexican village), where he tells anecdotes of movie scenes and his acquaintance with great Hollywood stars with whom he has worked.

He had his last major supporting role in Lucky Luke (2004).

Tips for Visiting the Western village of Fort Bravo

If you visit the fort, you should inquire at the entrance as to the timings of the Western shows. They are really funny, directed by drama students or even the likes of Rafael, who have dedicated their lives to the local film industry.

Enactments take place in the dark saloon amongst  the old wooden tables, or at the bar ordering a whiskey, they have become an integral part of a spectacle in which we cannot distinguish between reality and show.

The extras join in to make the enactments more exciting, there are shootouts with blanks, which are very loud, well-staged scuffle, real can-can dancers and hilarious barmaids who embody the hard-hitting survival of the Wild West.

The nice thing is, you will not be ignored as a spectator, but included by the actors in the quarrels played in an entertaining way. Many a Father has landed through the swing doors on to the dusty sun-drenched street.

When to visit Fort Bravo

The best time to visit during the winter is around midday, when it's warmer. During the summer months, early morning until mid-day and from 6pm in the evening. It's very hot in Almería and the thermometer quickly reaches here the 45c degree mark.

You can get a drink at anytime in the movie village saloon or you can buy something to eat and drink in the restaurant. Outside the village, the closest restaurants are back in the town of Tabernas, around 2 km away. This place also has quite its own Andalusian Wild West character.

Opening times and directions to Fort Bravo

Address:  

Ctra. Nal. 340 km. 468

04200 Tabernas

Almería (Andalusia)

Width (37 ° 2 '51.38 "N)

Length (2 ° 25 '15.94 "W)

Open: 

Monday to Sunday 9 to 20 clock

Tel 950 06 6014 or 678432813

Website  

E-mail   [email protected]

Adults: €17,90 (over 18 years)

Adolescents: €15,90 (from 12 to 17 years)

Children: €9, 90 (from 5 to 11 years)

Reduced rate: €15,90 (pensioners, disabled, students)

Fort Bravo also offers horse riding, and riding tours are organized through the desert. This should arranged by phone before visiting.

Information for desert tours:

Remember a sun hat, lots of water, good shoes and sunscreen. Mobile reception is not always possible. For those wishing to explore on their own, you should leave a message with your phone number clearly visible in the car when you leave. Take a fully charged mobile phone and it's always best to tell someone of your proposed route. Remember this is a desert, conditions are extreme in the summer months. Plan accordingly.   

Location and Map of Fort Bravo in Almeria

StarsInsider

What do you know about Europe's only desert?

Posted: October 2, 2023 | Last updated: October 2, 2023

Set in southern Europe in Spain's Almería province is one of the weirdest anomalies in nature—a desert! Known as the Tabernas Desert, this hot and arid environment is the only one of its kind on the continent. It's a world away from the tourist resorts more typically associated with this corner of the continent. And yet the Tabernas Desert is a visitor attraction in its own right, noted for its extraordinary geology and a variety of flora and fauna specially adapted to a seemingly inhospitable climate. Oh, and it's also on the map for a series of influential movies called "Spaghetti Westerns." Intrigued?

Click through for some hot tips on where to go and what to do in the Tabernas Desert.

You may also like:

Where is the Tabernas Desert?

The Tabernas Desert is located in the province of Almería in Andalusia, Spain.

Follow us and access great exclusive content every day

Hot and arid

Covering an area of 280 sq. km (110 sq. m), this is Europe's only true desert, a parched environment where annual rainfall reaches levels as low as 160 mm (6 in), and maximum temperature regularly surpasses 40°C (104°F).

You may also like: What's new on Netflix UK in April

Spain's badlands

When it does rain, it's often as torrential downpours. Over the centuries, flooding has eroded the ground to lend the desert its characteristic badlands landscape.

Effects of erosion

Erosion has shaped and sculpted this land into a region of outstanding and unusual beauty, a place unlike anywhere else on the continent.

You may also like: The strangest wedding photos ever taken

Does anything live there?

At first glance, the territory looks inhospitable and lifeless. How can anything call Tabernas home? Well, look again.

Pin-tailed sandgrouse

Despite its harsh and arid outlook, the Tabernas Desert is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Birdlife is particularly abundant. The pin-tailed sandgrouse, for example, is perfectly adapted to the dry conditions.

You may also like: Why people dislike Anne Hathaway (and how she's dealt with the "Hathahate")

Blue rock thrush

The blue rock thrush, a member of the flycatcher family, chooses to breed among the sandstone rock formations and pockets of vegetation.

Eurasian stone-curlew

Leggy and big-eyed, the Eurasian stone-curlew has a preference for arid and semi-arid habitats, and Tabernas fits the bill perfectly.

Trumpeter finch

A desert species found in North Africa and Spain through to southern Asia, the trumpeter finch is so named because its song is a buzzing nasal trill, rather like that produced by a tin trumpet.

Crested lark

Taberna's favorite songbird is the crested lark, whose vocalization is described as a liquid warbling. You'll most likely be regaled by this tiny songbird from high up in the sky.

You may also like: "Italian" food that would make a real Italian cringe

Bonelli's eagle

King of the skies, however, is the majestic Bonelli's eagle. This handsome raptor is another bird perfectly adapted to the Spanish badlands.

Sea lavender

Tabernas is surprisingly well endowed with vegetation for a desert. Unusually, sea lavender, more commonly found near coasts, thrives in the semi-arid environment.

You may also like: The final goodbye to our beloved pets

European fan palm

Embellishing the desert fringes is the European fan palm, the only palm species native to continental Europe.

Common yellow scorpion

You'll need to step carefully when following a hiking trail through the Tabernas Desert. The common yellow scorpion has a habit of hiding under stones, but for the most part will remain hidden unless disturbed. Its sting is painful, but fortunately with only mild toxic effects.

You may also like: Man-made marvels: The world's largest artificial islands

Tarantula wolf spider

They look quite menacing don't they, especially with a name like tarantula wolf spider. But these fist-sized arachnids deliver a bite no more painful than a bee sting that is low in toxicity. Tarantula wolf spiders are a mostly nocturnal species, so, unless you venture out into the desert at night, the chances of meeting one are slim.

Ladder snake

This sinewy Tabernas Desert resident is non-venomous, but beware: when it feels threatened, the ladder snake can still deliver a nasty bite. Step away if you see one!

You may also like: Celebrities accused of sexual misconduct

Ocellated lizard

A species endemic to southwestern Europe, the ocellated lizard can sometimes be observed basking on rocks under a hot Tabernas sun. But only occasionally. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified this creature as Near Threatened on the Red List, its numbers inexplicably in decline.

North African hedgehog

This spiky little guy is native to North Africa but has found its way over to southern Spain, probably introduced by humans. Unusually for hedgehogs, this species is able to survive in dry desert regions such as Tabernas.

You may also like: Watch out for these silly things we spend too much money on

Visiting Almería

The obvious place in which to ensconce yourself before exploring the region is Almería. Founded in 955 CE, this ancient city melds a Moorish heritage with a Flamenco vibe.

Alcazaba of Almería

Sights to see include the 10th-century Alcazaba of Almería, a defensive citadel that looms large over the modern city.

You may also like: Bruce Lee: from martial artist to Hollywood star

Almería Cathedral

Another cultural diversion is the city's cathedral. Built in the 16th century, the building is a fine example of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.

Mini Hollywood

Also known as Oasys, Mini Hollywood is located near the town of Tabernas. It's a Spanish Western-styled theme park originally created as a movie set for one of the most influential Westerns ever made. Can you guess the name of the film?

You may also like: Actors who have songs named after them

'A Fistful of Dollars' (1964)

The set was built in 1964 for 'A Fistful of Dollars,' the famous "Spaghetti Western" starring Clint Eastwood.

'For a Few Dollars More' (1965)

Designed by Carlo Simi for Sergio Leone's groundbreaking "dollar" series, the authentic-looking American desert town was also used for the sequel, 'For a Few Dollars More.'

You may also like: The royal weddings that changed European history

'The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly' (1966)

In 1966, Sergio Leone returned to Tabernas to shoot the epic 'The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.'

'Once Upon a Time in the West' (1968)

And the Tabernas film set featured once again, this time in the Italian film director's masterpiece, 'Once Upon a Time in the West.'

You may also like: Actors you didn't realize were also child actors

Act like a film star

Much of the original sets still exist, and visitors can wander through the hotels and saloons that once served as a stage not only for Eastwood but Lee Van Cleef, Eli Wallach, Henry Fonda, Charles Bronson, and other American and European stars.

Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park

In fact, some of those movies were also filmed in the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park. This is one of Europe's wildest and most isolated nature reserves, and is all the better for it.

You may also like: The Incorruptibles: saints whose corpses never decay

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

The park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is where to seek solace from the fierce heat of the desert, idling perhaps at the wonderfully named Arrecife de las Sirenas (Reef of the Mermaids).

Traditional seaside Spain

The park features a coastline far removed from the Spanish Costas glamorized in travel brochures. Instead, villages like Las Negras (pictured) dot the shoreline.

Back in the desert

But a short hop inland and you're back in the wilds of the Tabernas Desert and an environment little changed in thousands of years.

Sources: (IUCN) (UNESCO) 

See also: Famous movies set in the desert

More for You

Stephen Hawking once gave a simple answer as to whether there was a God

Kevin Costner refused to shorten eulogy at Whitney Houston’s funeral: ‘They can get over that’

There will be ‘fury and revolt’ if Biden steps away: Kennedy

What Impact Will The SR-72 Dark Star Have On Global Military Balance?

James Corden Pictured Engaging Crew After Scary Plane Emergency, But Fellow Passengers Are Praising His Tact

The richest comedian in the world isn't Leno or Letterman, based on data. Here are the top 20.

10 Affordable Compact Cars That Will Last 300,000 Miles

Dolly Parton says it was ‘bold’ of Beyonce to change ‘Jolene’ lyrics without telling her

'Texas Chainsaw Massacre' actor Jonathan Tucker rescues Los Angeles family during home invasion

Sports Icon Billie Jean King Sent Stern Warning to WNBA About Caitlin Clark

Why this AI researcher thinks there's a 99.9% chance AI wipes us out

“No one was going to buy me as a just cowboy”: Sylvester Stallone Knew He Would’ve Royally Sucked in Yellowstone

Using This 4-Word Phrase Instead of 'Thank You' Will Improve Work Relationships and Make You a Better Leader

Joe Biden Suffers Huge Primary Vote Against Him in South Dakota

20 Mind-Boggling Coincidences And Statistically Improbable Events That Rocked People's Worlds

12 States Are Banning the Sale of Gas-Powered Cars

See inside Kykuit, a 40-room mansion in New York that once belonged to the richest man in the world

Fact Check: Post Claims Kurt Russell Said Working with Robert De Niro Was Worst 6 Weeks of His Life. Here's the Truth

Three teams pursued Justin Jefferson trade before monumental Minnesota Vikings contract extension

‘I’m 59 and do not have any money in retirement’: Bookkeeper from Florida joins growing wave of American seniors heading for a broke retirement. Dave Ramsey sees a solution