Salobrena is an attractive little town on the Costa Tropical in the province of Granada. This unspoilt resort boasts an old quarter of whitewashed houses clinging to a rocky hillside. These steep, narrow streets have retained their traditional Spanish character.

At the top of the hill is a Moorish Castle, which is surrounded on three sides by steep cliff faces. From here there are stunning views of the surrounding countryside with the peaks of the Sierra Nevada in the distance. It's possible to walk along sections of the ramparts, which gives you some idea of just how impenetrable this fortress must have been. The present structure dates back to the 12th century, although there has been a fortification on this site since the 10th century. According to legend, Emir Mohammed's three daughters were all held captive here, although the castle was primarily used a summer residence by the Moorish leaders.

Just beneath the castle is the 16th century church of Nuestra Senora del Rosario, built on the site of a former mosque. The church is notable for its striking doorway and attractive tower. For more insight into Salobrena's vibrant past, try the Museo Historico which is housed in the town hall. The museum has numerous archaeological finds, some of which are thousands of years old.

The town's long beach is divided in two by El Penon. This large rocky outcrop jutting out into the sea was used as prison during Roman times. In recent years an artificial reef has been created just off the rock to encourage a greater diversity of marine life. As a result Salobrena is now a popular destination for snorkelers and divers. There is a dive centre at the Hotel Salobrena which offers lessons and rents out equipment.

To the east of El Penon are the grey sands of Playa de la Charca, while to the west is the pebbly beach of La Guardia. Salobrena's seafront promenade (Paseo Maritimo) is lined with restaurants, bars and chiringuitos (beach bars). The Restaurant El Penon, known for its reasonably priced meat and seafood, is one of the town's most popular eateries. Also situated on the Paseo Maritimo is the Restaurante Tropical, which serves steaks with a choice of delicious sauces.

Salobrena's biggest fiesta, which takes place on October 8th, is held in honour of the town's patron saint, the Virgen del Rosario. Another important event is the procession of the Virgen del Carmen on July 16th. A statue of the Virgin is paraded through the streets of neighbouring La Caleta before being taken on to a small boat. The statue is then sailed along the coastline accompanied by a flotilla of small craft and noisy firework display.

There are numerous other cultural events happening throughout the year. For a program, ask at the helpful tourist office in the Plaza de Goya. Across the road from the tourist office is the town's main bus stop. From here Alsina Graells run bus services to Almunecar, Granada, Malaga, Nerja and Almeria.

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For more advice and tourist information about Salobrena please see Salobrena