Tabernas Desert – Europe’s Hollywood and the Only Desert in Europe
The Tabernas Desert, just 30 km from Almería, is the only desert in Europe. Framed by two mountain ranges that block Mediterranean humidity, it enjoys a subtropical desert climate with scarce rainfall and extreme temperature swings (–5 °C to 48 °C).
Protected Natural Area
Covering 280 km², Tabernas is designated a Natural Park. Its marl and gypsum terrain has formed a labyrinth of gullies, ravines and badlands where unique flora and fauna persist.
“European Hollywood”
Resembling the American West, Tabernas became known as “European Hollywood” in the 1960s–70s. Hundreds of westerns were filmed here, and the old Oasys, Fort Bravo and Western-Leone film sets remain, offering:
- Live cowboy shootouts and duels.
- Dramatic shows with hangings and rescues.
- Diligence and horseback rides.
Activities & Routes
Beyond cinema, Tabernas is an adventurer’s playground:
- Hiking: marked trails of varying difficulty.
- 4×4 & Quad tours: guided excursions across mineral tracks.
- Mountain biking & Horseback riding: canyon and river-plain routes.
- Climbing & Caving: wall schools and cave explorations.
Unique Flora & Fauna
Endemic desert lilies, heat-adapted reptiles, and raptors like the golden eagle and peregrine falcon patrol the rocky outcrops.
Explore this lunar landscape under the Andalusian sun: feel the wind, follow the cowboy film trails, and discover why the Tabernas Desert is a one-of-a-kind stage where nature and cinema merge in pure form.
How to get there
Decimal: 37.023333°, -2.466667°
DMS: 37°1'24" N, 2°28'00" O
