Escape to a slightly bigger city and experience a day trip from Almuñécar with many things to do in Motril, Spain. Motril is the second-largest city in the Granada Province, with a population exceeding 60,000. Yes, this isn’t a big city by most standards, but it is the biggest on the Costa Tropical. Many of us know it as the place to take care of our paperwork as foreigners, but there is so much more to the city. We want to share with you some of the things to do in Motril, you can do as a day trip or combine with your trip to the Foreigner’s office.
There is a revolution going on in the Spanish wine industry. And wine producers (bodegas) in the Granada province are among those leading the way. Did you know that you can visit some of the most interesting of these bodegas within an hour’s drive from Almuñecar?
While there is plenty of sunshine in southern Spain, it isn’t every day! Yes, there are still a good 30 – 50 days a year where we will have rain, clouds, high winds and more acts of Mother Nature! We share with you some suggested indoor activities when the weather acts up or if the sun is just too much for you! Many of these options are local, with some in Granada, Malaga, or nearby locations. We will mention plenty of indoor things to do for the kids to do, as well a few indoor activities just for the adults. By the way you don’t need to be a kid to have a blast, so join in on the fun. Here is a rough guide to the weather in Almunecar.
Escape Room Experience
Come and enjoy an exciting escape game in the Library of Souls with your family and friends. Immerse yourself in this incredible adventure full of mystery and challenges. For any questions or reservations, please contact us: labibliotecadelasalmas@gmail.com Tel: 635 11 89 34 website
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Costa Tropical Old Spanish Sugar Mill
This is a good 1/2 day activity from Almuñécar and you are in for a sweet treat, all about sugar in Spanish. Just a little to the east within Costa Tropical, you can experience the sugarcane past of Motril. You will experience an old Spanish sugar mill, take a tour of a rum distillery and for the adults, taste some Spanish rum. Let’s talk sugar (Azucar).
The Archaeological Museum Cueva de Siete Palacios, also known as the Cave of 7 Palaces, is surprisingly not located within a cave. Instead, it represents the largest section of the former Roman Palace. The museum is located in what was once the basement of this Roman Palace. Inside, there are remains of the historic past of Almuñécar. Including remains found at the necropolis of Puente de Noy, Laurita, and the fish salting factory of El Majuelo.
The Granada Science Park is huge and a wonderful science center and museum, one of the best indoor activities. It is just a 1 hour drive from the coast and is located just off of the highway, parking is available as well. It is one of the most visited museums in Andalusia and a perfect option for one of those bad weather days. The activities and exhibits are fun for people of all ages, so even if you don’t have kids it’s worth a visit. Read more about the Granada Science Park.
Technically this isn’t in town, but it is great fun for the kids! There are a series of huge beautifully lit caverns stretching for almost five kilometres and boasts the world’s largest stalagmite. Now that’s something to tell the other kids about when they get back to school! Not all of the caves are open to the public, so you won’t need to walk the 5 km, but do be prepared for navigating some stairs. Check out Wagoners Abroad tips for exploring the Nerja Caves.
This is a fun cave to explore in Rincon de la Victoria! It shows off smooth services, nice paths, and even an underground body of water. It is a great location for the kids to explore and offers stairs or an elevator.
Jumping parks in Granada! Let the kids run wild and Jump on trampolines!
Let the kids run wild and jump in Malaga! You will find a jumping park called Altitude Trampoline Park Málaga. It is near the airport and in a central shopping area. There is also one called Sould in El Ingenio shopping center in Velez Malaga.
This is a great educational and fun activity for everyone! All of your senses will be dazzled with the amazing selection of olive oils in Andalucia. Learn about the production of oil, wine and cheese! There is a tasting tour too! They show off and sell some of the bes products of Andalucia. The museum is on the old road to Granada in Vélez de Benaudalla and is about a 20 minute drive from Almunecar. You can stop and see some of the villages along the way.
Closed until May 2024. If playing video games is your thing, there are a few places around town with some games. None of them are huge, but you can still have a good time. The locations are in the lobby of Hotel Playa Senator, at the New Royal Pool, Hotel Best Alcazar in bowling alley. During the summer months, you will find pool tables, foosball and other games at Aqua Tropic water park. There may be a few more random machines around town, but these offer the most.
CLOSED until further notice! Step out of your comfort zone and taste new produce and speak with the vendors at the Almuñécar Municipal Market. This traditional market will fulfill all of your daily shopping needs. It isn’t huge, but if you are sampling food along the way it can fill up some of your time. Inside, you will find the various butchers, deli counters, produce, bakers, honey, fresh eggs, tea, an ecological store, coffee beans, and a wealth of fish stands too. This is a great place to practice using your Spanish conversation too! On a rainy day, there won’t be as many locals, so it is a perfect place for you to go. It’s located just across the street from the Aquarium, so why not do both!
Closed until May 2024. If you want to enjoy a special treat, then head on over to the Best Alcazar Hotel on Punta de la Mona. They offer several bowling lanes, pool tables, arcade games and they can also host parties. This is perfect for that rainy day and of course is one of the best indoor activities. They usually have great prices for “happy hour” each day. They sometimes have limited hours in the winter months, so check with them for current hours.
McDonald’s renovated their restaurant and terrace winter 2018. Now the terrace has some shade and the playground has changed. We just need to get a new photo up for you. They don’t open up early, except for Friday. The little ones will still have fun, as the playground is outside and available at any time. Enjoy a cup of coffee or an ice cream too.
For the bigger kids, the youth center (La Casa de la Juventud) is a place for meeting friends, and seek guidance from the Youth Information Office. There are also leisure activities, indoor activities, and workshops, spaces for associations, groups and creative expression spaces, as well as free internet stations, computer classes and more. Located at Plaza Teatro, just in from the Paseo del Altillo. They are open Monday – Saturday 17:00-22:00.
While there isn’t a traditional movie theater in town, we still find ways to see the movies! There are often movies in Spanish year-round at the Cultural Center. This is a great Spanish immersion activity for the entire family. During the summer months there are outdoor theaters in town, showing films in Spanish. If you want a film in English, from September – June, it is offered once a week at the Cultural Center. Please see our full Almuñécar Movie Guide for more info.
Ever experienced hopping on and off a train? Get the chance to do it on this tour that makes several stops to the most notable historic and cultural sites in Granada!
For a day with indoor activities and a complete shopping experience, sometimes you need to visit a big city. We will describe how to get to the new Centro Comercial Nevada shopping Granada from Almuñécar. The Nevada shopping center [Centro Comercial Nevada] is located in Granada and is on the southeast side of the city, so that means easy access from Costa Tropical. With approximately 120,000 square meters of commercial area, and with 200+ stores, numerous restaurants, and an 8-cinema cineplex, there is plenty to see, do, and eat.
Are you getting cabin fever staying in the small coastal city of Almuñécar, or is the weather bad? Are you dreaming of a day out at a big and modern shopping mall? Well, let us share with you how to get to Larios Mall, Vialia Mall, IKEA Malaga, Plaza Mayor, from Almuñécar to Málaga and back. We provide you with instructions via the public bus, in addition to directions for driving a car.
This museum has a vast area for visitors to enjoy everything about honey! It boasts four main areas to explore: the impressive wax winery, the gardens, the Hive Collection, and the Honey Museum. The main building is equipped with a series of dynamic and interactive modules designed to meet the wide world of the bee in an entertaining way. Everything is in Spanish, so it is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture. This is located just outside of Lanjarón, which is about midway to Granada city.
Take your favorite board games or deck of cards to a local cafe and make your own indoor activities! Stay social with the locals and have a bit of fun too. Some places have games for you to choose from as well, but it is easiest to bring what you are familiar with. We always have a deck of UNO cards handy!
The public library is located in the Casa de la Cultura (cultural center) upstairs. You don’t need a library card to go in and read a few books. This is a great way to practice or introduce yourself to Spanish reading. You do need to be quiet inside, but there are books for all ages.
While this isn’t a stay warm and dry activity, it sure is fun. We found the best location to do a bit of storm watching is along the Paseo de Cotobro and Cotobro beach. It is also very exciting down by the Marina del Este to see the waves crash over the sea wall. Stay safe and don’t go on the beach near the waves, sometimes, big waves come and can just grab you. Stay along the paseo and get a big splash!
If you have more suggestions, just send us a message and we will determine if it should be added to the list.
Almuñécar Map
Most of these activities can be found on our custom town map.
Looking for more things to do Almuñécar?
If this wasn’t enough for you or you want more adventurous activities, please review our full list of Things To Do in Almuñécar, including 1/2 day and full-day trips from Almuñécar.
Well that should keep you busy for a little while. If you discover new activities you feel we should add to the list, please comment below with detailed information. We will research and if it is a good fit, we will do our best to include it in the list.
What do you think? Do you think Almuñécar is a family friendly place?
Escape to the Sierra Nevada mountains and experience a day trip from Almuñécar to Monachil. A unique hiking experience through a narrow canyon, on top of a narrow cement wall, and over several hanging bridges. A place to cool down from the heat at one of the many water holes along the river. Keep on reading to find out the scoop from our guest author Ed.
Why would anyone be looking for Thermal Hot Springs In Spain? Well, it isn’t always hot in sunny Spain and there are some great benefits to soaking in a thermal bath or covering yourself with the naturally warm mud. Let’s review some locations near Almuñecar for a day trip. While other options may be good for a weekend getaway.
Thermal Hot Springs In Spain
There are a few natural hot springs in Spain and some thermal baths. You will find many benefits from the minerals and heat of these special waters.
improvement in joint and muscle pain
better range of movement
reduction in inflammation, spasms, and cramps
stimulation of blood flow
Thermal Hot Springs Near the Costa Tropical
Thermal Baths and natural pools at Alhama de Granada
After you have explored the town and had some lunch, you may want to make your way to the thermal baths, located just on the outskirts of town. There are free public baths along the river, but be warned,d they aren’t always kept litter-free. You can just stop and take a quick dip if you are continuing on to the reservoir on the same day, or stay a bit longer at the spa hotel for the night. Booking.com guarantees the best prices for any type of property and no booking fees!
Lanjarón
La Balneario de Lanjarón is a hotel and spa, offering several thermal baths and treatments with the special thermal mineral water. Lanjarón is located just 30 minutes away from Almuñecar in Las Alpujarras. Read more about it.
Zújar As per a reader in February 2026, this location no longer exists. I have not confirmed.
The Zújar thermal pool in the Negratín reservoir in the Granada Province. This is a natural hot spring and there is no cost for the experience. You may read more about it here.
Balneario Zújar
This Spa establishment offers thermal baths and various spa treatments. It is a great getaway to relax and pamper yourself. The offer indoor and outdoor pools as well as a Roman bath and a Turkish bath. Zujar is about 90 minute to 2 hours to the northeast of the Costa Tropical. Visit their site
Thermal Baths & Hot Springs a bit further out
Lo Pagan Mud Baths!
Lo Pagan Mud Baths are located in San Pedro del Pinatar, Murcia. it is about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Almuñecar. This is located in one of the only saltwater lakes in Spain and is in the Mar Menor. This shallow warm water is lined with oooey gooey silky mud in the Mar Menor mud bath. You scoop up the mud and cover your body with it. Allow it to dry and then hop back in to rinse in off. Read more about the Lo Pagan Mud Baths
Take a Magical Day Trip from Almuñécar to Soportújar and Las Alpujarras. From the sun-kissed beaches of the Costa Tropical to the cool, forested slopes of the Sierra Nevada, a day trip inland offers a wonderfully different pace. Start from your base in Almuñécar and drive north into the heart of the Alpujarras region, where whitewashed villages cling to hillsides, chestnut trees line lanes, and one village stands out for its imaginative, mystical charm: Soportújar. Combine your visit there with stops in the classic Alpujarran villages of Pampaneira, Órgiva, and Lanjarón, and you’ve got a full, memorable day.
Soportújar: The Village of Witches
Once you arrive in Soportújar, parking can be limited—especially in the peak season or if the village is busy—so aim for an early start or consider parking at the edge and walking in.
A Unique Theme with Local Roots
Soportújar may look like one of many whitewashed Alpujarran villages, but its identity is anything but ordinary. The village goes by the nickname “el pueblo de las brujas” (the witches’ village). The municipality, around 2006 – 2007, embraced the witch-theme in a bid to boost tourism and preserve the village as the population declined. >What you’ll find today is an imaginative overlay of sculptures, murals, fountains, and themed routes — but it’s underpinned by real local folklore and the layered history of the region.
What to Look Out For (and Photograph!)
Here are some of the standout stops — perfect for your photo collection and blog narrative:
The mini replica of the village, as you enter from the main road A 4132.
The Giant Spider (“Araña Tejedora de Sueños”): Located at the convergence of Calle Camas and Calle Moralillo, this large spider sculpture is part of the “dream-weaver” motif in the village. Locals say that if you make a wish beneath it and walk away with hope, your dream may weave itself.
Hansel & Gretel Candy House (Casa de Caramelos / Chocolate House): Up at the top of the village, above the Baba Yaga house and fountain, there’s a house façade decorated with sweets, cookies, and chocolates — a playful nod to the fairy tale.
Baba Yaga’s House on Chicken-Legs: Inspired by Slavic folk-tale, this house perched on giant chicken legs is one of the unusual photo opportunities in Soportújar — located near the fountain of the Chorro and the serpent motif.
Serpent Tunnel / Enchanted Serpent in a Tinao: One of the old “tinaos” (traditional covered passages) features a giant serpent emerging from a wall, lending a surreal twist to the village lanes.
Fountain of the Witches (Fuente de las Brujas) & Mirador del Embrujo: In the village’s central square, there’s a sculptural fountain with two witches around a cauldron — a popular landmark and viewpoint over the valley.
Mirador del Aquelarre (Viewpoint of the Coven): A viewpoint on the outskirts, believed (by local legend) to be the site of old witch covens, offering sweeping views of the valley and onto the Mediterranean on clear days. Sculptures of an owl, cat, skull, and broomstick mark the spot.
The Narrowest Street – Calle Zanjilla: A fun little side street – reputedly the narrowest street in Spain, located in Soportújar, which adds to the character of the village.
Past & Present: A Bit of History
Historically, Soportújar was one of the many villages in the Alpujarras that saw Moorish settlement until the Reconquest, followed by repopulation from elsewhere. Some of the legends of witchcraft stem from cultural fusion — settlers from Galicia or the north who arrived bringing older pagan traditions and practices, and the local mountain communities who developed strong oral folklore. ([iheritage.eu][2]) By the early 21st century, the village faced the issues of depopulation common to many mountain communities in Andalusia. The decision to lean into the “witch village” brand was not purely whimsical — it was a conscious development strategy, and it has succeeded: the local economy and infrastructure have been enhanced, and it is now one of the most searched-for villages in the Alpujarras. ([South of Granada][8])
Practical Tips for Soportújar
Arrive mid to early morning if you want to avoid crowds and get the best light for photos.
Wear comfortable shoes — many lanes are steep and narrow.
Take time to wander off the main squares into the smaller lanes — the more subtle installations and murals often reward the curious walker.
Parking can get tricky: park at the edge of the village and walk in if the main lot is full.
If you’d like a guided experience, local tours are available (e.g., via “Descubriendo Soportújar”), which cover legends, history, and the themed installations.
Combine your visit with a stop in the local café or bar for “migas alpujarreñas” or a hearty mountain lunch (see the “Where to eat” section below).
If you’re visiting in August, the annual Feria del Embrujo (usually around 11 August) is the peak of the witch-theme festivities and draws thousands.
Where To Eat in Soportújar
After filling your camera roll and your sense of wonder, settle down for lunch at a local spot — look for a village tavern or “taberna” offering Alpujarran classics: migas, the “plato alpujarreño” with mountain sausage, jamón, eggs, and potatoes, or a fresh mountain salad with goat cheese. A good choice is a terrace with views over the valley. Pair the meal with a local wine or a craft beer. Afterward, a stroll past the fountain of two witches adds a final touch of whimsy before you head on.
Pampaneira: Postcard-Perfect Alpujarras
Just a short drive from Soportújar, Pampaneira is one of the most iconic villages in the Alpujarras. Its steeply stepped, narrow streets, flower-filled balconies, and artisan shops frame the mountain backdrop beautifully. Here you’ll find traditional crafts — hand-woven rugs (jarapas), ceramics, locally made chocolates, and cheeses, all lined up in the shops. The fountain of San Antonio is a tiny landmark where legend says a drink from its water might help you find love. Take the time to wander slowly, sip café con leche in a plaza, and let the quiet mountain rhythm sink in. You can also continue on to more villages like Bubión and Capileira.
Órgiva: Gateway to the Alpujarras
On the way in or out of your Soportújar loop, you’ll pass through Órgiva, the largest settlement in the Alpujarras valley and a multicultural hub. With a lively weekly market (Thursdays) offering produce, crafts, and more, it’s a good place to break your journey. Stop at Plaza Alpujarra for a coffee, soak in the bohemian atmosphere (some artists and expats have settled here), and browse some of the shops. If you have time, an optional detour to the nearby village of Cáñar offers olive-grove views and a quieter pace.
Lanjarón: Spa Town & Mineral Water Capital
Finish your day with a stop in Lanjarón, known across Spain for its bottled mineral water and historic spa tradition. The town’s origins date from Moorish times, and you’ll find a castle ruin overlooking the town and pretty fountains with inscriptions about water. Take a stroll down Calle Hondillo, one of the prettiest streets in the region. If you’re up for it, visit the Balneario de Lanjarón for a relaxing thermal bath (a nice contrast to the more playful Soportújar). Don’t forget to sample a fig-cake (tarta de higos) or local honey from one of the shops near the main square. >From Lanjarón, you can retrace your drive back to the coast via the A-348 and A-4050, arriving back in Almuñécar as the sun begins to dip.
Why This Day Trip Works
Dramatic contrast: From Mediterranean beach to rugged mountain village in under 90 minutes.
Visual diversity: White villages, mountain panoramas, and unique photo spots (especially in Soportújar).
Cultural richness: Moorish roots, artisan crafts in Pampaneira, multi-cultural vibe in Órgiva, spa/hydro heritage in Lanjarón.
Accessible: You’re based in Almuñécar, so the journey is comfortable as a day trip rather than a full overnight.
Memorable storytelling: With Soportújar’s unusual theme, you have a strong narrative center for your blog post and photo story.
Final Note
If you’re looking for that “wow” moment of the day, let it be exploring Soportújar. At that moment, as you wander down a narrow cobbled lane in and spot a giant spider sculpture looming above. Take a selfie by the witch’s broom. Turn a corner and peer up at the house standing on chicken legs. It’s a whimsical, slightly eerie, fun, and thoroughly Instagram-worthy place to visit. Yet it is also a genuine small mountain village full of life.
Escape the coast for a day, breathe the mountain air, explore craft shops, sample hearty Alpujarran food — and explore Granada’s Alpujarras.
Getting to Las Alpujarras from the Costa Tropical
Leaving Almuñécar, take the A7 and then the A44 towards Granada. Next, pick up the A-346 in Vélez de Benaudalla and head towards Órgiva. Pass through the valley and turn on the A348. Enjoy the scenic drive through Órgiva and back up on the other side of the valley: olive and citrus groves give way to pine and chestnut as you climb. From Almuñécar to Soportújar takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes depending on stops and road conditions. I prefer to make a loop and enter via the Vélez de Benaudalla exit through Órgiva, Soportújar, and then Pamaneira. Then return home via Lanjarón and take the A44 back to the coast.
For a complete shopping experience, sometimes you need to visit a big city. We will describe how to get to the new Centro Comercial Nevada shopping Granada from Almuñécar. The Nevada shopping center [Centro Comercial Nevada] is located in Granada and is on the southeast side of the city, so that means easy access from Costa Tropical. With approximately 120,000 square meters of commercial area, and with 200+ stores, numerous restaurants, and an 8-cinema cineplex, there is plenty to see, do, and eat.
This is a good 1/2 day activity from Almuñécar and you are in for a sweet treat, all about sugar in Spanish. Just a little to the east within Costa Tropical, you can experience the sugarcane past of Motril. You will experience an old Spanish sugar mill, take a tour of a rum distillery and taste some Spanish rum. Let’s talk sugar (Azucar).
Duration: ~3 hours Route: Your day will begin with a step back in time at Motril’s pre-industrial sugar museum, followed by a tour of the Ron Montero Rum Distillery with rum tasting. Distance: 20km from Almuñécar Departure: Recommended departure from Almuñécar 10:30 – 11:00 am
As much as we all love Almuñécar, it is nice to get out and explore a bit. It’s very easy to take a day trip to Granada from Almuñécar, or you can even plan a few days away. Of course everything we have to share is also a perfect day trip from Malaga too. There is so much to see and do, and it’s always fun to just roam around and soak up the city. If that isn’t your style, here are some great options for organized tours and things to do in Granada.
Enjoy a day out bird watching at Charca de Suárez in Motril. This is the most important wetland on the coast of Granada, with over 160 species of birds, as well as wildlife and numerous plants and vegetation. This 15.6 hectares (almost 40 acres) environmental site has plans to double in the future, which is critical for the endangered bird species in the area and their survival. This is the ideal refuge for many species in addition to a strategic location for migration.
![Nevada Shopping in Granada! For a complete shopping experience, sometimes you need to visit a big city. We will describe how to get to the new Nevada Shopping Center in Granada [Centro Comercial Nevada]. With approximately 120,000 square meters of commercial area, and with 200+ stores, numerous restaurants, and an 8-cinema cineplex, there is plenty to see, do, and eat. Read more on Almunecarinfo.com](https://i0.wp.com/almunecarinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Nevada-shopping-mall.jpg?fit=750%2C510&ssl=1)
![Nevada Shopping in Granada! For a complete shopping experience, sometimes you need to visit a big city. We will describe how to get to the new Nevada Shopping Center in Granada [Centro Comercial Nevada]. With approximately 120,000 square meters of commercial area, and with 200+ stores, numerous restaurants, and an 8-cinema cineplex, there is plenty to see, do, and eat. Read more on Almunecarinfo.com](https://almunecarinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Nevada-Shopping-Granada-from-AlmuñécarI-400x600.jpg)
As much as we all love Almuñécar, it is nice to get out and explore a bit. It’s very easy to take a day trip to Granada from Almuñécar, or you can even plan a few days away. Of course everything we have to share is also a perfect day trip from Malaga too. There is so much to see and do, and it’s always fun to just roam around and soak up the city. If that isn’t your style, here are some great options for organized tours and things to do in Granada.