Construction is prevalent in Los Gallardos. This Spanish municipality has a population of approximately 2,800 residents. Tourists will find that lodgings are limited, but the town is undergoing some growth in recent years. Given time, Los Gallardos may become a thriving tourist area.

 

Los Gallardos translates to “striking.” The town is just that - striking! The scenery, homes, and surrounding mountainsides offer a dazzling panoramic display on any day of the week. Situated approximately 75 kilometers from Almería, Los Gallardos is a rural town that still is in proximity to the larger municipalities.

Much of Los Gallardos’s early history is based on word of mouth. It is known that Los Gallardos was a profitable mining town. The remains of a cable system that led into the mountains have been recovered. Little is known about the earliest ancestors, however. Only one historian has attempted to paint a portrait of the municipality’s history, but even then, he focuses after the 16th century.

 

It makes sense that Los Gallardos follows the same historical path as other areas. The Romans entered the area, waged a battle, and banished the current culture. The Romans had their glory days, but, in a funny turn of events, found themselves driven out by the Moors. The Moors shaped much of Los Gallardos until they were driven out by Christian armies.

 

In the 1500s, Christian kings overtook the area, most likely banishing Moors (Arabs) in the process. Once the population had been increased, the Christians worked hard in mining and agriculture. Even today, many woman hold firm positions in local fields harvesting tomatoes and similar crops.

 

This was necessary, as it was not until after the French revolution in the 20th century that electricity, telephone, sewer, and paved roads were established in Los Gallardos. Though it took some time for modern conveniences to reach Los Gallardos, they are making up for lost time!

Los Gallardos sits about 10 kilometers from the beaches of the Mediterranean and 5 kilometers from the mountains. You can hike in the morning and lounge at the beach in the afternoon. The possibilities are endless.

 

On the banks of the Aguas River sits the remnants of the Roman town of Cadima. Tourists are welcome to view these remains.

 

Two area buildings, the church and the city hall, are worthy of a tourist’s attention. Clean building lines and architectural details should catch the eye of many tourists.

Of the 2,800 residents, only 800 are employed. Almost one-quarter of those numbers work within the construction industry. Currently, 40% of the population is evenly divided between children and senior citizens, the remaining 60% of the population are between the ages of 21 and 60. In 2005, the population doubled. This staggering increase is due to the availability of jobs and the good mix of schools.

 

While many residents still work in neighbouring municipalities, Los Gallardos is forming a strong economical base. Agriculture is a strong component in the area, especially with the production of Jamones, blood sausage, and garlic sausage. The clean air and current growth promise to keep Los Gallardos thriving for decades to come.

Stews are incredibly popular in Los Gallardos. These vegetarian stews known as “potaje” blend a rich broth with freshly harvested vegetables from pumpkin to onions to beets, to eggplant. The meals are both low in fat, but also delicious.

  A lot of inhabitants in Los Gallardos are on a limited budget. Wild rabbit is plentiful and is hunted by many families. These delicacies are baked with wine, garlic, and a variety of seasonal vegetables

There are no restaurants within Los Gallardos. Therefore, finding some nightlife activities might be slightly challenging.

 

There are two small area bars. You can enjoy a cold beer or tasty glass of wine, but expect a crowd of locals to pack the establishment. It may be nicer to purchase some beer and enjoy the cooling night air from the patio of your rental home or inn.

Nature lovers may want to stay at Los Gallardos’s large campground. For a low charge, you can pitch a tent and enjoy all the town has to offer. There are many hiking trails throughout the area, and the beach is always close by.

Do you offer a service in this area?  If so, why not put a link here directly to your website.  Contact Ask Olive today.