Exploring the Costa del Sol

Almost immediately after landing, some holidaymakers on their annual COSTA DEL SOL HOLIDAYS head down to the beach. It seems that the heat of the sun, and the white sand is all they came for while others search out new places, new hiding areas, quiet, hidden coves in some remote areas. Well if you like to do something different for a change you couldn't have come to a better place especially for a fun time.

Depending on what you want to do, here are some suggestions. On the one hand, explore the wilderness. Sierra Alhamilla, north of the city of Almeria, is an area I promise you've seen many times. You may well have seen in films like Lawrence of Arabia starring Peter O'Toole or some of the spaghetti westerns with Clint Eastwood, even in some cosmetic adverts. The rugged appearance and arid, dusty landscape perfectly resembles the American West, particularly areas near Mexico. It’s also similar to Arabian deserts. There are plenty of bit part actors willing to take part in a film and the low cost compared to real locations suits so many directors. While you're there, take a few hours and visit Mini Hollywood, one of the spaghetti film sets left behind after filming. Perhaps stage your own pretend gunfight in the middle of town with your favourite digital camera.

National parks are another favourite for explorers and Cabo Gator Nijar Nature Park is no exception. This vast area comprises three distinct unique zones, salt marshes where flamingos may just fly past flocking into land, wonderful extinct volcanoes with caves that have taken centuries to create and the only native European palm tree.

Some historical places you may want to visit like the fascinating fortress overlooking the region's capital Almeria. Almeria is a town full of history: the Romans, Visigoths and then Moors all rode into town and added something to its cultural heritage, and if history is not really your thing then the shops will surely attract you.

Mention the beaches: they are incredible and definitely worth seeing, even if only for one day. There is a lot of sand and you can certainly find a place to sit and bathe under the hot sun, especially in some of the big wide beaches that can be found in this region. If you do not take a walk along the shore to look for small, isolated coves, then you only have yourself to blame. Mind you, the isolated coves have no lifeguards so be careful when out in the water. Other than that the beach areas are perfectly safe. Take advantage of the water sports whether you like to kite, wind or body surf even paragliding, there is plenty for everyone.

Nearby there are the water parks for the kids. Typically golf is everywhere, it is almost as if the game was invented here, and as common as sand on the beach. Make excellent use of Nature's creation around: there are many activities available here from 4x4 riding, horseback safaris, mountain trekking and go-karts for all children plus, of course, water parks. The charming villages and traditional towns so emblematic of Andalucia, remaining virtually intact from the date they were built. When you explore all of this is available in the area around your COSTA DEL SOL HOLIDAYS.