"Cabo de Gata" is the point which we have to round, in order to continue farther into the Mediterranean. The point is part of a big area that makes up the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, and which is located at the extreme eastern end of "Gulf of Almeria". The mountains in Cabo de Gata comes from volcanic origin. The average temperature of 64 degrees Fahrenheit with very little rainfall during the year, means that only plant life that can survive without water for long periods of time, can grow there.

In order for us to reach Cabo de Gata National Park, we followed the road along the coastline east of Almeria for 16 miles, that took us through some small villages, alongside plastic greenhouses and out into an almost desert looking countryside. In this desert grew cactus, that shoot out tall stalks with brances and needles; they almost looked like a skinny pine tree. We believe they are called "sentry cactus", because of its long stem. Soon we arrived in Cabo de Gata, a small fishing village since Arab times, with archaeological remains which points to an ever remoter past. The village still contains a lookout tower built in the 16th century to repel attacks made by Berbers. At this point, one of the most highly protected areas of the park begins, "Las Salinas". This dry zone, which is of great ecological importance, is home to numerous animal species. In the summer and fall a rich and varied birdlife come to settle in the Park's waters, an example being the flamingo population which can sometimes reach over 2,400. From there the road continues between the salt ponds and the sea, amongst a beautilful landscape formed by the old church, "La Almadraba de Montelera" and the small fishing boats chained up along the beach. The road soon started to rise from the sea and immediately it became curvy and narrower. Looking back down along the beaches, it was a beautiful sight with the city of Almeria almost visible in the haze.

Along the snaking road, which follow the lines of the cliffs, we drove and eventually arrived at a narrow pass. Once we had passed through, Cabo de Gata and its lighthouse at Punta Baja became visible far off in the distance and below us. We continued downhill and stopped at the lighthouse viewing point, from where we could see a whole series of small coves, jagged rocks and great cliffs bathed in crystal clear waters. The road continued farther along the coast up to the lookout tower at "Vela Blanca". The road leading up to that spot was absolutely awful, and my stomack was in knots the entire distance. The road was very narrow, turned almost back on itself on many spots and no guardrails anywhere! Below the road the mountain disappeared, and so did my stomack on numerous occations! I guess it was worth the stress, as the view from the top was marvelous. From there we got a wider perspective of the Cabo de Gata area, with a wide variety of coves and inlets in view. A dirt track, that was closed to vehicles, wound its way from that height down along the cliffs, and if you wanted to, you could hike all the way over to the small fishing village of San Jose. Back down the mountain side we drove, and on the way down, we met people who walked up; that would have been much more to my liking!

Once again we had seen some beautiful scenery, and even though the mountains are very barren, they look grand and forbidding! The ocean with small coves and inlets beckons you to throw your anchor down and stay awhile, but only if the weather cooperates. Miles after miles of beaches invites you to relax on its sandy shores, and where could you have all this if not in Spain!