Almuñécar, the tropical gentleness of Granada’s coast

The old town climbs towards the castle of San Miguel; below, the Peñón del Santo separates the two main beaches, and El Majuelo park shelters the remains of a Roman garum factory. Close by, the bay of La Herradura is one of the best diving spots of the Spanish Mediterranean, and the Marina del Este hides its restaurants among the rocks.

This is a destination for true rest, less busy than the western Costa del Sol, where life follows the rhythm of the market and sea swims. Granada and the Alhambra are an hour’s drive away for a cultural day out.