Free walking tours in Las Negras and what to see

Must-sees

Las Negras is a small fishing village in the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, on the Almería coast. It takes its name from the Cerro Negro, an old volcano of dark rock that closes the bay and tints the sand and pebbles of the beach grey. The village is made of low white houses, with boats pulled up on the shore and a quiet, slightly bohemian atmosphere. The main beach, pebbly and with very clear water, is perfect for snorkelling among fish.

The essential outing is the Cala de San Pedro, an isolated cove reached only on foot along a coastal path or by boat. There you will find the ruins of San Pedro castle, a coastal fort rebuilt in the 18th century, and a spring that has allowed a small alternative community to live there. To the south, the path leads to the Caleta del Cuervo and the Peñón del Gitano, with good views over the village.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no free walking tours in Las Negras, because here the sea is the star. The usual options are water activities: kayak routes along the cliffs of the Cerro Negro, dives and boat trips to coves such as San Pedro. They are small-group outings best booked in summer. On land, the park's trails can be done on your own.

How long to spend

An afternoon is enough for the village and the beach, but the point is to stay. With two days you can go to the Cala de San Pedro and do a kayak or diving outing. With three or four, Las Negras is a good base for exploring Cabo de Gata: Rodalquilar and its old gold mines, Agua Amarga, San José and the beaches of Genoveses and Mónsul.

Where to stay

The best option is to sleep in the village itself, in apartments, houses and small hotels near the beach, to enjoy the atmosphere once the day visitors leave. Towards the Caleta del Cuervo there is also a campsite. In summer places sell out quickly, so book ahead. If you cannot find a room, Rodalquilar, Agua Amarga or San José are close and have more accommodation.