The small agricultural town of Albox, situated approximately 130 km from the provincial capital of Almeria, has become very popular with the English over the last few years. It is a typical white-washed Spanish town nestling between the Sierra de las Estancias and the Sierra de los Filabres mountain ranges, a short distance from the Almanzora river.

Although medieval in origin, the town was destroyed by an earthquake in 1503 and many of its historical buildings were lost. However, the remains of an ancient fort can be seen on a nearby hill.

Albox has all the services and facilities that you could wish for, including shops, banks, a post office, restaurants, bars and several builders merchants. There are schools for children of all ages and a 24-hour medical centre. The nearest major hospital is in Huercal Overa, approximately 21km away.

It is encouraging to note that many of the local traditions are still carried out in Albox, including ceramics. The pottery factories of two 'famous' ceramicist families remain; they still cook the mud in the old Arab furnaces and produce decorative ceramics, mostly earthenware.


In Albox, and the surrounding area, there are a number of things to do. Not only are there are scenic country areas to walk and explore, it is also possible to go horse riding, cycling or off-roading in a 4WD. The area is also home to Europe's biggest space observatory. There is a sports centre, a tennis club (which also has its own swimming pool) and a municipal swimming pool, which opens in July and August.

A large weekly market is held every Tuesday morning, and the streets are closed to traffic. Here you can buy just about everything - fruit and vegetables, cheeses, cured meats, bread, craft items, etc. There is also a smaller market on Saturday mornings.

Like most Spanish towns and villages, every year Albox celebrates all saints week by having a massive fiesta/feria (party/fair). Thousands of people come from the surrounding towns and villages to join the townsfolk of Albox in the celebrations. In addition to the preparation (and consuming of!) the traditional giant paella, there are many other events that take place in either a massive marquee or in the streets. There are fairground rides, stalls, and games, not to mention tasty food and copious quantities of drink available. Be prepared to celebrate well into the early hours of the morning (some people party until 8am or later!).