Area Guide for Roquetas de Mar, AlmeriaIntroduction:Eight kilometers of pristine coastline have turned Roquetas de Mar into a thriving tourism destination. Clean, sandy beaches draw huge crowds in the spring, summer, and fall months. Even in winter, temperatures remain warm enough to wear a medium weight jacket and walk along the shore.
The population stands at more than 65,000 people. The population is growing steadily, and tourism has increased. Around 100 restaurants and more than 30 hotels or inns provide tourists with fine meals and comfortable sleeping quarters.
History:The Moors established Roquetas de Mar as a thriving agricultural town. Seafood was harvested for trade, and the town did well. In the late 1400s, Catholic kings ordered their armies to advance on many thriving Moorish towns. Their ultimate goal was to conquer these areas for their own. Unfortunately, after the battles ensured their success, the towns became wastelands as Moors were forced from their homes.
Roquetas de Mar was one of those areas that met with a lack of population following the battles. It became necessary to repopulate the town. It would be years before this one thriving town grew to become a major city along the trade route. Seafood and agriculture were restored as the greatest source of revenue.
In the past fifty years, Roquetas de Mar has become a thriving tourist destination. Attractive scenery, pristine beaches, and friendly locals provide tourists with an area that feels like a second home. Visitors come for a few weeks and want to stay for a lifetime.
Site Seeing:It is understood that the beaches of Roquetas de Mar are the main attraction. Kilometers of clean sandy beaches and sparkling salt water lure tourists to Roquetas de Mar’s shores. The city does an impeccable job keeping the beaches safe and free of litter.
Located on the outskirts of town, Entanis-Sabinar is a local wildlife preserve where hundreds of bird species, including wild flamingos, and numerous examples of native plants and flowers can be viewed. The natural preserve is a popular tourist site. There are many nature trails throughout the preserve.
The 17th century Castle of Santa Ana has needed structural preservation over the decades. The remaining castle towers and castle walls are one of the town’s biggest tourist attractions. The exterior gardens are used for summer concerts. The Light, a well-kept lighthouse, is also on the castle grounds. The Light offers a large exhibition hall that houses many activities throughout the year.
Roquetas de Mar’s Bullring is another main attraction. Year round bull fighting competitions draw a huge crowd. The building itself is a wide array of colours and architectural details that make for amazing photographs.
Roquetas de Mar offers many water sports in their port area. The large port also welcomes tourists arriving by boat or yacht. The port contains many promenades that lead to the city center. Basketball courts can be found within the port area, as can many bars and restaurants.
Promenades wind throughout the city. Cafes, restaurants, bars, and boutiques line the promenades pleasing those interested in the local far and anyone interested in shopping. Plan to spend at least one day walking the city streets.
The 18th century Iglesia Virgen del Rosario is known for its amazing altarpiece. The decorative altarpiece was painted in the 1950s and remains a major draw for art lovers.
Every July, the city celebrates their port. The day begins with parades, theatrical performances, music concerts, boat races, games, and plenty of local fare. By nightfall, the beaches become crowded with bonfires and celebrators. The bonfires spark high into the sky and create an eerie glow on the flowing tide. Do not miss this event if possible.
Industry:Roquetas de Mar has the lowest unemployment rates in Almería. Jobs abound in any field of tourism from tour guides to restaurant or hotel staff. Agriculture and fishing are also strong industries. Crops range from tomatoes, green peppers, red peppers, cucumbers, melons, and squash.
There are numerous businesses in Roquetas de Mar. Auto repair shops, real estate firms, and construction are plentiful and usually employ up to ten employees. These small businesses help pour revenue into the community. Specialty stores are also in abundance leading to many exceptional deals for tourists looking to bring home a knick-knack or two.
Gastronomy:An abundance of fresh seafood shapes the culinary treasures from Roquetas de Mar. A variety of local dishes serves as staples in both homes and restaurants.
Zarzuela is a dish made with fresh fish, clams, lobster meat, and calamari. The fish is smoked and added to a creamy broth that contains the other seafood. A splash of wine and almonds add depth to the stew’s flavours.
Fish is often stewed in tomatoes and garlic and then served over steaming mounds of white rice. Many of the varieties of seafood can be lightly battered and fried.
Clams and mussels are often steamed in a broth of wine, lemon, garlic, and tomatoes. A variety of herbs seasons the mollusks creating delightful dishes that pair the delicate seafood with a decadent dipping sauce.
Nightlife:Those seeking an active nightlife will be delighted with all that Roquetas de Mar has to offer. Because the city is the largest tourist destination in Almería, there are many restaurants, bars, theatres, and dance clubs. People of all ages will find appealing activities.
Head to the port area of Roquetas de Mar for a wide array of bars and clubs. Views of the sea are impressive, so expect to arrive for a couple drinks and then want to stay for hours as you watch the sun set over the sea.
Summary:Roquetas de Mar should be a destination leading the top of your itinerary. There is so much to experience, plan to stay for at least three or four days. With the theatrical offerings, concerts, historical sites, and gorgeous beaches, you will find that the time passes quickly.Most people arrange to spend a few days and then wish they had booked an entire month. Roquetas de Mar is that impressive. Come soon, and stay a lifetime.
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