Free walking tours in El Ejido and what to see

Must-sees

El Ejido is in Almería's Poniente, between the Sierra de Gádor and the sea, and is best known for its greenhouse farming. Its history is older than it looks: the Ciavieja site holds Copper Age remains and was the origin of Murgi, the area's Roman city. In the town stands the Roman mausoleum of El Daimún, and the local history room displays a Roman mosaic from Ciavieja.

The coast is the other side of the municipality. The castle of Guardias Viejas, a restored 18th-century coastal fortress, has an exhibition of uniforms and weapons, and Balerma keeps a defensive tower from the same period. Almerimar brings together a marina, beaches, golf courses and most of the nightlife. Between them stretches the Punta Entinas-Sabinar Nature Reserve, with dunes, salt pans and lagoons full of waterbirds.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free walking tours in El Ejido. Punta Entinas-Sabinar has waymarked trails you can walk on your own. If you want a conventional tour, the most practical option is to go to Almería, about 30 kilometres away, which has free walking tours of the old town and the Alcazaba.

How long to spend

A day lets you see the essentials: the castle of Guardias Viejas and a walk in Punta Entinas-Sabinar in the morning, and Almerimar and its marina in the afternoon. If you come for the beach or golf, the usual plan is to stay several days. You can also use it as a base to drive up into the Almería Alpujarra or spend a day in Almería city.

Where to stay

Almerimar is the area with the most tourist accommodation, with hotels and apartments near the marina and the beach, and the best option for a seaside holiday. El Ejido town has more urban hotels, practical for business or passing through. Balerma and Guardias Viejas are quieter coastal settlements. If you cannot find a room, Roquetas de Mar, next door, has a huge choice.