Salobrena is an attractive small resort on the Costa Tropical, Granada. This unspoilt town has an old quarter of quaint houses clinging to the hillside. The steep and very narrow roads have kept their traditional Spanish feel.

At the summit of the hill is a ancient Moorish Castle, that is surrounded on 3 sides by steep rock faces. From there you can see are stunning vistas of the Costa Tropical coast with the mountains of the Sierra Nevada in the far distance. It is still possible to stroll along some sections of the old ramparts, which gives you an idea of just how strong this castle must have been. The present fortress dates back to the early 12th century, although there was a fort there since before the late 10th century. According to the local legend, the three daughters of the Emir Mohammed were all held prisoner there, although the fort was mainly used as the summer home of the Moorish kings.

Just under the castle is a late 16th century church, the Nuestra Senora del Rosario, constructed on the site of a previous mosque. The church is famed for the doorway and beautiful tower. For a further insight into the vibrant past of Salobrena, visit the Museo Historico which is found in the town hall.

Salobrena beach is divided into two sections by the El Penon, a massive rocky headland jutting out into the ocean, which was used as jail during the Roman era. In recent times an artificial reef has been built just off the headland to encourage a bigger diversity of sea life. As a result of this, Salobrena is now a favourite destination for snorkelers and sub aqua enthusiasts. There is also a diving school in the Hotel Salobrena with lessons and rental equipment.

Further east of the El Penon are the greyish sands of the Playa de la Charca, while further west is the pebble beach of La Guardia. Salobrena seafront esplanade, the Paseo Maritimo has fine restaurants, pavement bars and chiringuitos or beach bars. The popular restaurant of El Penon, famed for reasonably priced seafood fare, is one of the towns best eateries. Also located on the Paseo Maritimo is the fine Restaurante Tropical, which has various steaks with a choice of sauces.

Salobrena fiesta in October, held in honour of the local patron saint, the Virgen del Rosario. Another important festival is the procession of the Virgen del Carmen held in July, when a statue of the Virgin is taken through the roads of nearby La Caleta before being put on to a boat, when it is then sailed along the coast accompanied by a flotilla of small boats along with a firework display.

There are many other cultural events occuring all through the year. For a program, try the local tourist office in the Plaza de Goya. Jusy across the street from the tourism office is the main bus stop with services to Almunecar, plus Granada, Malaga and Almeria.

For more useful advice and visitor information about Salobrena please visit Salobrena Spain.