DISCOVER LA RABITA SPAIN: A TINY GEM ON THE COSTA ALMERIA!
DISCOVER LA RABITA SPAIN: A TINY GEM ON THE COSTA ALMERIA!
INTRODUCTION: DISCOVER LA RABITA SPAIN!
Nestled along the stunning Andalusian coastline lies La Rabita, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered! This charming village offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Did you know that La Rabita is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the Costa Almeria province? Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking tranquility, La Rabita Spain has something for everyone. Let’s dive in and discover La Rabita and what makes this coastal retreat so captivating! As someone who has lived in the area for over a decade, I’m happy to share my inside tips and knowledge of this beautiful beach holiday destination on the Mediterranean.
(To find out more about this region see our post on Costa Almeria, our Guide to the Coast of Spain, and our guide to The Mediterranean Coast )
What Are The Things To Discover In La Rabita Spain?
This is a small town directly on the coast and less than a kilometer off of the main coastal highway, the A7. On our way down the coast to Gibraltar, we planned an overnight stop in La Rabita. We had no expectations other than to find a good night’s sleep, but somehow we timed our stay with the town’s biggest festival of the year involving the entire community. The event commemorated a battle that took place several hundred years ago, and we found ourselves right in the middle of the celebration.
This was an unexpected surprise and forced us to take a much closer look at this town than we had originally planned. And what we found was an authentic Spanish community that has somehow escaped the massive tourist explosion of the last few decades. This is not a tourist hot spot (and it certainly doesn’t pretend to be one) but if you are looking for a different, slow-paced experience then this town is definitely worth a visit, if only for a day trip or a weekend stop.
Historical landmarks: Torre de La Rábita
The Torre de la Rabita, part of the Castillo de la Rabita, is a historical fortress-monastery located in La Rabita, Albuñol. Originally built during the Islamic period, it served as a strategic coastal defense and a settlement for warrior-monks. The structure likely began as a square tower with a surrounding wall. Over time, it was modified in the 16th century and later expanded in the 18th century with additional watchtowers, including the well-preserved Torre de la Rabita. You can still visit this tower today, where you can get stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Local Festivals
“Balandrilla de los Gatos” also known as the “Moros y Cristianos Festival”. This event commemorates the naval battle between Muslim and Christian forces during the Reconquest of the Kingdom of Granada. It takes place around September 8, coinciding with the patron saint festivities in honor of the Virgen del Mar.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures
Relax on the Beach in La Rabita
The town is directly on the Mediterranean and has a nice pebble and crushed stone beach and crystal clear water. There is a short promenade along the shore and amenities nearby.
Snorkeling in Crystal-Clear Waters
Dive into the clear waters to explore vibrant marine life, witnessing colorful fish and underwater ecosystems up close.
Kayaking Along the Coastline
Paddle through the stunning coastline, exploring cliffs and secluded coves while connecting with nature.
Boat Tour
Enjoy a scenic boat tour along the coastline, marveling at azure waters and dramatic cliffs with a refreshing sea breeze.
Explore Local Markets
Visit markets and artisan shops to discover unique crafts and taste traditional Andalusian snacks.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Glide over the calm waters with stand-up paddleboarding, perfect for enjoying the serene coastal environment.
Local Cuisine
When visiting the area make sure to try some of the local Almerian delicacies such as:
- Gurullos: A traditional Almerian pasta dish made with small, hand-rolled pasta pieces, typically cooked with rabbit, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. The dish is seasoned with saffron and various aromatic herbs.
- Cherigan: A popular tapa consisting of a toasted baguette slice topped with various ingredients such as ham, cheese, tuna, and tomato.
- Ajoblanco: A refreshing cold soup made from almonds, garlic, bread, and olive oil, often garnished with grapes or melon.
Ir De Tapas
As with most regions of Spain, the tradition of “Ir de Tapas” or Tapas Tour, is alive and well in La Rabita and involves visiting several bars and restaurants and sampling different foods and drinks. Being directly on the coast, naturally, you will find a variety of seafood specialties to choose from.
Day Trips
For those looking for short Day Trip options, here are some of the top destinations within a short drive of La Rabita.
Almeria City
Almería is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture lovers. Just a short drive from Roquetas de Mar, this vibrant city boasts the impressive Alcazaba of Almería, a massive fortress offering stunning views and rich history. Wander through the charming Almería Cathedral, a fortress-like structure blending Gothic and Renaissance styles. Don’t miss the Museo de Almería, featuring archaeological treasures that trace the region’s storied past.
Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park:
Explore this stunning natural park known for its volcanic landscapes, salt flats teeming with birdlife, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Ideal for hiking, bird-watching, kayaking, and snorkeling. (Note: bring lots of water, sunscreen, and a camera)
Tabernas Desert
Take a trip to Europe’s only desert, famous for its unique landscapes and as a filming location for many Western movies. Popular activities include guided tours of the desert, visiting the famous film sets, and exploring the Oasys MiniHollywood theme park, which offers live shows and a zoo. (Tip: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, and consider starting early in the day to avoid the midday heat (You know, because of that “desert” thing).
Roquetas de Mar
Relax in this popular seaside resort town offering beautiful beaches, a picturesque marina, a lively promenade, and attractions like the Santa Ana Castle and the Roquetas Aquarium. Make sure to bring swimwear and sunscreen.
Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips
Peak Tourist Season
The peak tourist season in Costa Almeria and the surrounding area is during July and August when most regions of Northern Europe have their school breaks. With everybody heading to the Mediterranean coast at the same time, it does get busy so be prepared, plan ahead, and book accommodations, rental cars, plane tickets, and tours well in advance.
Tip: If you are looking for a less hectic experience, you might want to consider traveling in May/June or in Sept/October. The weather is still exceptionally nice and you can escape the large crowds.
Transportation options
- Flying: Almeria Airport is located just outside the city center of Almeria. The next nearest options are Murcia Airport (about 260km away), Malaga Airport ( about 140km away), and Alicante Airport (about 320km away)
- Driving: You can reach this region by using the A-7 highway that runs through the region going east towards Murcia and west towards Malaga, or the A92 which heads north-west towards Granada and Seville.
- Train: The nearest train station is 60km away in Almeria. You can reach Almeria from Madrid by train in about 6 hours.
Accommodations
La Rabita is a small town so accommodations are limited. We visited at the end of the high season and were able to find great rooms at Hotel las Conchas which was directly on the beach. If you are planning on making a day trip excursion to La Rabita from somewhere else you’ll find plenty of accommodations in the entire Costa Almeria region.
These range from luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly youth hostels and guesthouses. However, as mentioned above, summer is the busiest time in the area so I recommend that you book well in advance. Your best bet is to check online for available places and book as soon as you can. Check out the link below for places available right now.
FINAL THOUGHTS: DISCOVER LA RABITA SPAIN!
La Rábita is more than just a picturesque coastal village; it’s a small authentic Spanish community that has remained relatively untouched by mass tourism. From relaxing on its peaceful beach to exploring its history and trying out local specialties, there’s something special about this Andalusian town. Ready to embark on a journey to La Rábita? Start planning your trip today.
“Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!”
How about experiencing the Mediterranean firsthand? Use the map below to inspire you and plan your next Mediterranean vacation right now!
Reg Auge
Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.
