AGUA AMARGA
Cabo de Gata
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The quaint white-washed village of Agua Amarga is home to around 400 inhabitants and boasts a calm sandy beach with transparent turquoise water. The town has several picturesque corners and there are even a few clothing and craft shops. You can rent a kayak or hike to one of the many nearby intimate coves where you can relax or discover the diverse submarine life of the Cabo de Gata Natural Park. The famous Playa de los Muertos is a short car ride away. And you can arrive at Agua Amarga from Almeria Airport in just 40 minutes.
The name Agua Amarga means “bitter water” and comes from a time when trains would bring minerals from the mines of the Sierra Alhamilla Mountains to the town. The chemicals used in the mining process would taint the local water wells causing the water to be unfit for consumption.
On the eastern hill overlooking the town are the remains from the mineral extraction industry known as the “antiguo cargadero de mineral.” Here ships were loaded with iron ore arriving from Lucainena de las Torres. It is possible to explore the ruins and enjoy the awesome views of Agua Amarga and the coastline.
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Mesa Roldán is a flat-top volcanic dome that is the remnant of an extinct volcano, whose crater is half eroded. It stands 200m above sea level and offers a great look out point with views to Agua Amarga, Carboneras, the coastline and the interior.
In addition to a lighthouse, there is also an 18th century tower built by King Charles III. The original tower, which is no longer standing was built in the 9th century by Abd-el-Rahman II, the Moorish Emir of Cordoba to protect against viking attacks. Game of Thrones fans might recognize this spot from season 6 when the city of Meereen was under attack.
Mesa Roldán is a 10 min drive east of Agua Amarga, almost halfway to Carboneras. To get there, take the paved road that goes towards the direction of the water from the Playa de los Muertos parking area. It is about a 5 min drive to get to the lighthouse and tower. You can’t enter either of them, but it is still a great place to go for a walk.
