Surroundings
Explore Salobreña
Salobreña is an unspoiled Andalusian paradise. The village breathes Moorish history and authentic charm, far from the crowds of other Spanish coastal resorts. Here you’ll find Mediterranean beaches, snow-capped Sierra Nevada peaks, rugged mountains, and green fields full of subtropical crops. Thanks to its position on the main highway with fast links to Granada, Málaga, and Almería, it’s an ideal base for exploring the entire Costa Tropical and for excursions to the Alpujarras, the Lecrín Valley, and Granada.
The village stretches across a wide and varied landscape. Take time to wander the enchanting old town with its 10th-century Moorish castle, bright white casas, the Paseo de las Flores, and a church that was once a mosque. In the UNESCO-protected Albayzín, you’ll discover winding alleyways, unexpected viewpoints, neighbors sitting on their stoops, and a relaxed Andalusian lifestyle. Below the castle lies the modern quarter with a market, shops, banks, and lively bars where tapas naturally accompany every drink.
The fishing village of La Caleta is nearby, famous for its historic sugar factory, steep streets, and a square overlooking the sea. The July festival is pure Andalusian tradition, and it once hosted Europe’s last active sugar refinery. A rocky path leads you to hidden coves. On the other side sits La Guardia, a calm beach strip with simple restaurants, safe swimming waters, and a watersports club. During the July Virgen del Carmen procession, the patron saint is honored by boat. La Caleta and La Guardia are connected by the Gambullón road, a route with phenomenal vistas.
The El Peñón rock separates the quiet La Guardia beach from the busier promenade. Summer brings a buzz of life with chiringuitos serving grilled octopus and sardines on skewers, plus bars, shops, and rentals for pedalos and sunbeds. Families from inland keep their summer homes here, and in October markets and colorful floats set the stage for the village festival. Farther along lies the mouth of the Guadalfeo River with a beautiful walking and cycling path through the wetlands; you can gaze at the sea and the Sierra Nevada at the same time. Across the river you’ll find the untouched beach of La Desembocadura del Guadalfeo, an idyllic spot with just a small surf club and views of snow-tipped peaks while you swim.
For hikers, Monte de los Almendros and the Loma Miranda viewpoint are top recommendations, offering panoramic views over the coast and mountains. Inland, from the cemetery to Lobres, fields of avocado and mango trees stretch out, dotted with hidden corners to discover. Because sugarcane was cultivated here for centuries, Lobres hosts the modern Ron Montero rum distillery, where you can join guided tours and tastings.