La Almendra y El Gitano

Sitting in a unique environment on the Almería coast, the curiously-named hotel La Almendra y El Gitano (the Almond and the Gypsy) offers guests maximum tranquillity with a personal touch, right in the heart of the Cabo de Gata natural park. Nightlife here means sipping a glass of wine, listening to the crickets and gazing up at the millions of stars, uninterrupted by any hint of light pollution.

The hotel rests on a low hill looking down into a valley completely free of roads or houses, giving a complete sense of being at one with nature. 360° views reach around the surrounding hills and down to the nearby sea. Within its several acres, there are plenty of places to relax in total quietude: on the old Moorish “aljibe”, by the spring, under a 300 year-old carob tree, or lying by the pool shaded by a tall palm tree.

The three rooms and two suites match the simplicity of the environment, but combined with such exquisite good taste that they are a true luxury. The decoration of each is unique, drawing inspiration from a mixture of cultures and filling the spaces with comfort, intimacy and peace. There are plenty of modern “essentials”, though no telephone or internet as some of the miracles of 21st century communication have not yet penetrated the natural park. Most important of all is the evident love of the owners for their hotel and for each other, something which will inevitably rub off on anyone who stays here.

There is so much to do, you really can be busy doing nothing. A week of walking would barely begin to explore the numerous tracks along the coast and through the hills. Just look at the amazing volcanic geology of the area, have a peaceful day on the beach at Cala El Plomo or wander along to Agua Amarga, a delightful cluster of white houses around a bay. A little further afield, visit the other villages of Cabo de Gata, or see the flamingos at the Salinas, drive up to the only desert in Europe, or visit the Mini-Hollywood film studios. Whatever you decide to do, this is one of the most benign climates in Europe with winter temperatures in the high teens, summer temperatures in the thirties and 320 sunny days every year.

Meals

The dining room is full of light, with windows looking out on all the beauties that surround it. Breakfasts are served here as well as light dinners of fish, Spanish cold meats and salads, on request. Meals (except breakfast) are not served every day, and 24 hours notice is needed. There is a choice of some excellent wines to accompany a meal.

Out and About

Beaches (Cala El Plomo for a totally virgin beach accessible only on foot or by boat, Agua Amarga for a long stretch of sand with a couple of bars and restaurants nearby, Carboneras for a promenade with bars, shops and restaurants)
Lots of other quiet or totally isolated beaches along the coastline of Cabo De Gata
Cabo de Gata natural park
Cabo de Gata marine park (the only marine natural park in Spain, or maybe in Europe)
Walking. Choose from the coastline, the flora and fauna of the hills, the moorish springs, or even a little industrial archaeology. Guided walks can be arranged.
Sailing trips along the Cabo de Gata coast
4x4 excursions
Scuba diving (Agua Amarga)
Horse-riding (Agua Amarga)

Places to visit:
Cabo de Gata cape and lighthouse
The salinas (flamingos and other birds)
Villages of Cabo de Gata (Las Negras, San José, etc)
The caves of Sorbas
Nijar (artisan shops)
Almería
Granada
Tabernas desert
Mini-Hollywood studios

The hotel has 2 double bedrooms of equal size and comfort with terrace overlooking the valley.

Latex mattress, minibar, DVD, TV and hairdryer.

Double bedroom with jacuzzi and terrace overlooking the valley.

Latex mattress, minibar, DVD, TV and hairdryer.

Each of the three suites has a jacuzzi inside the room. They have a private terrace overlooking the valley. Latex mattress, minibar, DVD, TV and hairdryer.