Spilling down the foothills of the Sierra Cabrera on the South East coast of Spain is the beautiful resort of Mojacar. Split into two distinct areas approximately two kilometres apart are the village (pueblo) and the beach (playa). The combination of both makes Mojacar undoubtedly the most cosmopolitan area in the region.
Mojacar Playa
The Mojacar beach front is some 5km long ranging from fine white sand to the coarser variety. It has a good mix of both busy spots and secluded coves which extend into the distance reaching as far as the edge of the Cabo de Gata National Park. The busier beach areas have been considerably developed to serve the many visitors who return year after year and are scattered with hotels, apartments, restaurants, cafes, bars, and supermarkets providing accommodation and refreshents for all.
A defensive fortress from the 18th century known as the Macenas Tower acts as the gateway separating the main beach area from the beaches reserved for naturalism. Leisure activities such as scuba diving and snorkeling and, for those who enjoy an adrenalin boost, the thrills of ultralite flybys, jet-skis and parachuting are all available on Mojacar beach.
Mojacar Parador
Most visitors are on package holidays but if you’re just passing through check out the Mojacar Parador hotel. This modern parador is located on the beach of Mojácar with beautiful views over the Mediterranean. Its bright bedrooms, which all have terraces overlooking the sea, are set in beautiful surroundings. The restaurant offers typical rice and fish dishes from Almerían cuisine such as ‘arroz a la Garruchera’ (rice dish), ‘gambones de Garrucha’ (prawns), and ‘amarillo de pescado en cuajadera’ (fish).
Mojacar Pueblo
Mojacar Pueblo is an elevated mountain village, Arabic in appearance with quaint streets and terraces. A magnificent view of the coastline can be seen from the highest point in the village, the Mirador Castillo, but by far the best way to see the village itself and its medieval architecture is to abandon the car and take to your feet. In the main square, in front of the church of Santa Maria is the statue of the Mojaquera, a lady wearing typical head-covering dress and carrying a water container. Going down another level takes us past the old cemetery which leads into the street which originally provided a binary wall protecting the upper part of the village. In this area there is a good selection of shops, bars and street cafes where you can relax and watch the world go by.
Accommodation within the village consists of small hotels, apartments, converted farmhouses and basic studios, most of which are available year round for long or short term occupation. The bustling village market takes place every Wednesday where local produce can be sampled and purchased. Within the same area is the Town Hall, famous for its magnificent old tree brought over from the Americas and from here it is a pleasant walk to the Puerta de la Almedina, an archway to the village displaying the coat of arms of Mojacar. Close by is the maze of tiny streets of the Jewish Quarter.
The symbol of Mojacar, thought to be 4500 years old, is an Indalo man holding an arc in outstretched arms. It is said to bring good luck and protection and is painted on many buildings in the village. Once you have reached the lower level of the village there is no need for despair at the thought of getting back up to the top as there is a local bus to take you there.
The nightlife starts with the most fabulous sunsets covering the village with a pink glow. The candlelit restaurants with background music of Arabic origin mixed with international strains sets the mood to try the many gastronomical delights, several of which come from the sea, but also include stews, savouries and soups, all prepared in true Moorish style. Street squares full of charm host the many open air concerts, shows and exhibitions attracting all age groups and nationalities.