Motril
Motril, Granada, 18600
Situated along the Mediterranean, Motril, a province of Granada, Spain, is a bustling coastal town known for its production of sugar and sugar cane. Now home to roughly 60,000 people the Costa Tropical community features an eclectic history that dates back centuries, and was once inhabited by Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, and Christians resulting in a unique blend of Andalusian culture.
The Basics
A maze-like collection of streets dotted with balcony-clad buildings, Motril is one of the largest towns along the Costa Tropical and a shopping destination for the residing area. For some sand and surf check out Motril’s two main beaches Playa Granada and Playa Poniente for calm, warm waters. But if you want to stay in town, tour the Museo Preindustrial de la Caña de Azúcar to learn about the area’s history of sugar cane production, or step into the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Head, a church considered by many to be Motril’s true city center. And don’t forget to sample the cuisine, which includes fresh fish, migas—a soft bread dish, typically seasoned with garlic and paprika, likened to an American Thanksgiving stuffing—and a locally produced rum from Ron Palido.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Some of the nearby beaches are clothing optional
- For a sampling of the city’s vibrant nightlife, grab a seat at a restaurant or bar for some traditional tapas or dance the night away at a local club
- Many Spanish communities still practice siesta, so avoid planning excursions or shopping from roughly 2pm to 5pm
- Similarly, after lunch restaurants and bars will remain closed anywhere from 4pm to 9pm
How to Get There
Located in between the cities of Málaga and Almería, Motril can be accessed by car from either the international Málaga Airport-Costa del Sol or smaller Alamería Airport. This city also has an active marina, and you can take a ferry into the port.
When to Get There
With its Mediterranean location, Motril experiences warm winters and long hot summers. If you visit during spring, you might catch several Holy Week processions and celebrations—a revered practice and tradition for much of the region.
Things to Do Near Motril
Travel inland to the ancient Moorish city of Granada and visit the famed Alhambra fortress, the Generalife Gardens, the hillside district of Sacromonte, or the old Albayzín. For more mountainous exploring, hit the slopes at the neighboring Sierra Nevada mountain range.
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