Cabo de Gata Nature Reserve

Cabo de Gata is a large terrestrial-maritime nature reserve near Almeria. It covers 460 square kilometres, which includes 120 square kilometres of the sea. It is the largest coastal protected area in the Andalusia part of Spain, and is volcanic in origin.
Cabo de Gata features steep volcanic rock formations and cliffs that give way to some beautiful hidden white-sand beaches. There are several small rocky islands jutting off the cliffs, which boast coral reefs teeming with a great range of marine life. The park was elected a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997 due to its great array of different flora and fauna species. Over 1000 different types of plants and 1100 different species of fauna have been recorded in the area.
Cabo de Gata consists of several different landscapes, including saltpans, Mediterranean shrub, beaches, salt marshes, dry river beds and the maritime zone. The area contains numerous walking and hiking trails, and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The maritime area off of the peninsula offers crystal clear waters swarming with marine life, making it very popular for snorkelling and scuba diving. Photography is a much-loved activity, with the beautiful landscape and life making great subjects.  Cabo de Gata is also a favourite with bird-watchers, with many rare and endemic species living in the area.
There are many hotels and campsites in the area, and the information centre is open throughout the year. The centre features several exhibitions on the park's geology, as well as the flora and fauna found in the area.