Coasts With a Difference:

The southern Iberian coast has been renowned for decades as a prime coastal destination. Mass tourism development has unfortunately spoiled, (in the eyes of many), much of the larger areas by defacing the landscape with high rise buildings, inducing over-populations and hence much contamination not too mention extreme water consumption in today's dire water shortage climate, and nearly all in the name of leisure and tourism!

There are still, however, many areas where the impact of this developent is much less obvious and in some instances barely even present.

The province of Granada is home to a stunning stretch of coastline namely the "Tropical Coast", where the mountains quite literally meet the sea. Development here is present on a fairly low key aiding in maintaining authentic coastal towns such as Salobreña, Almuñecar and La Herradura as well as the delightful harbour urbanisation of Marina del Este, all of which are worth the visit. The beaches themsleves are typically protected by steep cliff faces forming attractive coves whilst consisting of a pebbly greyish sand mixture.

The Eastern Algarve is a 100% rival to its much more developed other half to the west in terms of untouched villages and harbour towns, friendly people and perhaps some of the "best" stretches of beaches to be found anywhere in Europe. Immaculately kept, the groomed beaches here gleam with gold year round offering anything and everything a "beach bum" can desire. The long stretches allow for extensive beach walks amidst the dips into pristine waters to build up the perfect all over tan.

Where Are These Prime Areas?

Sierra Nevada, (Granada)
Eastern Algarve, Portugal

What Essentials Do I Need?

High factor sun cream
Head protection, (cap)
Camera
Bottle of water
Money for a great fresh fish lunch