Located on a steep hillside that slopes from a steep rocky slope to a small beach and surrounding sugarcane fields, Salobreña is a historic Phoenician development. The steep winding streets lead to a restored castle that give outstanding views of vast fields of sugarcane and the Sierra Nevada range. Down at the bottom of the slope is a small beach area that is slowing developing into a small tourist strip.

Salobreña’s history dates back 6,000 years. A group of nomadic shepherds resided in the area spending their days caring for their livestock. They left many artifacts in caves tucked into the sheer rock cliffs that tower above Salobreña. It appears that Salobreña was once island of rocks and some vegetation. On one side, the island faced the sea.   The Guadalfeo River surrounded the opposite side. Eventually, the path of the river changed and the island joined land on one side.

 

Eventually, Phoenicians settled in the area creating salt mines and factories for curing fish. Salobreña’s became a busy fishing town thanks to the Phoenicians.

 

Salobreña passed from the Phoenicians to the Romans. Eventually, as is true in much of Andalusia, the town was inhabited by the Moors. They called their new home Salubania, built an imposing fortress, and lived happily until Christian invasion. With the Christians ruling the town, the Moors were forced from the area. Christians held control for many centuries. In the 1800’s, French invaders seized the beautiful town for two years before ownership reverted to the Christians. Sugarcane fields were planted during this period. Sugarcane helped launch industry in Salobreña once again. The town grew to a population of over 10,000 and has flourished ever since.

Before embarking on any tours of the town, visit the House of Culture on Avenue of the Mediterranean. Visitors are given a complimentary discount card that is accepted by many area attractions. Three discount cards exist. The basic card ensures guests receive at least 20% off the admission charges. A youth card allows those between the ages of 12 and 18 to receive 50% off an adult admission charge. The pensioner card is available for senior citizens. This card ensures elderly visitors are given 50% off all admissions.

 

Salobreña’s Arab Castle is a highlight for many visitors. The impressive architecture draws in a crowd. However, the town has recently introduced dinner parties within the castle. For 50€ per person, you get dinner, entertainment, and a castle tour. Staff is dressed in period costumes and traditional fare is served. This is the greatest way to experience the breathtaking castle. The hike from the bottom of the hill to the top is taxing, so you may need to hire a driver who is happy driving up the steep, winding streets.

 

Villa de Salobreña houses the area’s historical museum. On the bottom floor of the villa, you can tour the old prison. The jail cell is in prime condition, well preserved through the centuries. Upstairs are two separate displays. The first focuses on archaeological treasures discovered in Salobreña. The second room houses much of the town’s cherished artwork—paintings, sculptures, and pottery. In the summer, the museum is open seven days a week from 10.30 am to 2.00 pm and again from 6.00 pm to 9.30 pm. The museum is closed on Sundays during the winter months. Admission is is not expensive. Discounts are given to groups.

 

If you are capable of walking for lengthy amounts of time, you can start from the edge of town and walk through the area’s sugarcane plantations. The walk takes around two hours, but the plantations are huge and packed with picturesque scenery.

 

In the summer months, the Park of the Fountain is used for outdoor concerts. Packed with trees, colourful flowers, playgrounds, and glistening ponds, the Park of the Fountain is a perfect spot for a family picnic. Bring a few extra bread crusts for the ducks and geese.

 

Church of the Rosary is a Mudejar style church rebuilt from the remains of a mosque. The wood ceiling burned in the 1800s, but the interior has been renovated in the same architectural style. Tours of the church are held after church services usually. You must call ahead.

 

The Gambullón Park is located at the bottom of the sloping town. This area is the old section of the city. Vibrant gardens and historic homes line the streets. This area leads to the beachfront area where many new shops, restaurants, bars, and homes line the seashore. The beach is home to the Peñon, a huge jutting rock that has served as a burial spot for many centuries.

Salobreña is a prime tourism spot. There is plenty to see and do. Restaurants and hotels are plentiful and bring in plenty of revenue to the town. Tourists can sunbathe in the morning, tour the city in the afternoon, and then enjoy the nightlife when the sunsets.

 

Salobreña brings in many jobs thanks to the historic sites, sugarcane plantation, fishing, and hotel/restaurant industry. The economy is well balanced between agriculture and tourism. There should be no problems years down the road thanks to the versatile area.

Much of Salobreña’s cuisine revolves around the ample quantities and varieties of fresh seafood. Squid and squid ink are used in many dishes. Sardines and rockfish are also common.

 

Mangos, avocados, and sugarcane thrive in the area. The balance of fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and succulent fruits ensure that the cuisine found in Salobreña is the best in the world.

 

Seafood stew with an array of shellfish and fish, tomatoes, garlic, wine, olive oil, and onions is a dish found in many restaurants. You must try it if you go out to a restaurant offering this delightful dish.

 

Dozens of restaurants offer a wide array of culinary styles from Oriental fare to Andalusian cuisine. You will definitely find a restaurant that appeals to both your tastes and your budget.

 

Many tapas bars, nightclubs, and restaurants can be found within Salobreña. La Alhaja is one of the area’s greatest taverns. Cold beers, delightful wines, and impressive tapas draw in the crowds.

 

Another excellent choice is the Bar Pesetas. A casual bar delights patrons of drinking age, but the older crowd enjoys the fine dining that is open in the upstairs area.

With its breathtaking scenery, gorgeous gardens, and winding streets, Salobreña is one of Spain’s up and coming resort towns. If you prefer quiet spots, you will want to visit Salobreña now before it becomes more congested. Salobreña offers an experience you will never forget.