Almeria is an amazing destination on the eastern edge of Andalusia, home to some of Spain's best-unspoiled beaches, and perfect for those seeking authenticity and a less crowded place along the Mediterranean coast, with Arabic architecture right next to industrial, sometimes a little rusty, landscapes.

Cala en Cabo de Gata       |      Click by Pablo from Flickr

The Costa Almeria coastline has some of the most pristine beaches in Spain, particularly the wild and rugged beaches of the Cabo de Gata Natural Park. Other popular coastal towns with large, wide beaches and a variety of activities are Aguadulce and Roquetas de Mar.

Almeria is a city for those who want to get away from city life while also experiencing the atmosphere of a Spanish town on the Mediterranean coast. Almeria was a former Moorish stronghold, and much of the city's architecture and culture reflect this. Almeria's Alcazaba is a fortress that towers above the city and provides spectacular views of the sea and the city. It is completely free to visit and well worth the climb up the hill. It is the largest of the Moorish fortresses built in Al Andalus, having been built in 955.

Almeria Cathedral      |      Click by Steve Slater from Flickr

A place where you can hear rough Andalusian Spanish and sample delicious tapas in local bars. The Almeria region is known as Europe's greenhouse, particularly in El Ejido, where a wide variety of high-quality fruits and vegetables, such as peppers, are grown in massive greenhouses and exported throughout Europe.

Almeria is a port city that overlooks the sea. The Alcazaba, an imposing fortress, towers above the city. Wonderful views of the city and the Costa Almeria coastline are guaranteed from this vantage point.

The Almeria Cathedral, located in the city center, is a striking structure that was built with very few windows due to the threat of invading forces. Jabega, a refreshing drink popular among locals, is served at Kiosco Amalia (close to Puerta Purchena). This lemon ice drink contains alcohol.

This lemon ice drink contains alcohol. The bar is located on the street. The Americano, a short milky drink with cinnamon, lemon rind, and a dash of cola cream liquor, is another popular drink.

Tapas are a popular local dish in Almeria. Explore the charming streets and learn about yourself. Parrilla Pasaje is a restaurant in the center. This bar created the popular "Cherigan," an Almerian toasted sandwich that is served in many bars throughout the city. The name Cherigan is derived from the word "Sheriff," possibly from the Westerns filmed in the nearby Tabernas desert. The original Cherigan can be found at C/Rueda Lopez, 1.

For those interested in history, the underground Spanish Civil War shelters - Los Refugios - provide a fascinating glimpse into wartime Spain. These tunnels beneath the city took three years to build and are one of Europe's best examples of wartime shelters at four kilometers in length. Plaza Manuel Perez Garcia serves as the entrance. (Mondays are closed.)

 Pay a visit to Plaza Vieja's Centro de Interpretacion Patrimonial. The views from the rooftops are breathtaking. (Free admission; closed on Mondays)

El Paseo de Almeria in Almeria has a good selection of shops.

Because of Almeria's Moorish influence, there are many Moroccan restaurants to try. Aljama on Calle Jovellanos is an absolute must-see. The Hotel Cathedral is an excellent choice for a central Almeria hotel. Non-residents are welcome to visit the modern bar in the evening for tapas or in the morning for coffee and toast with views of Cathedral square.

Hotel CostaSol at Paseo de Almeria 58 is centrally located and offers a wide range of food all day. Plaza Vieja Hotel is an upmarket boutique-style hotel located in a typical square, close to the Cathedral but away from the noise.

If you have a sweet tooth, El Capri and Dulce Alianza are two popular cake shops that serve local pastries. La Dulce Alianza has been in operation since 1888 and is located at 4 Paseo de Almeria. El Capri is located at Calle Navarro Rodrigo 21, and their signature dish is the Glaseado cake.

The spectacular Tabernas desert is located to the north of Almeria. Because of its unique landscape, many Hollywood films have been shot here. There is a Mini Hollywood Theme Park in Tabernas where film sets from the 1960s still exist, and cowboys act out western scenes every day. Mini Hollywood is only 20 miles from Almeria.