The Tabernas Desert is a natural sub-desert area in the province of Almería, located in the Tabernas basin, between the Filabres and Alhamilla mountain ranges. It occupies about 280 km² and is considered the only desert in Europe, with a landscape shaped by aridity, scarce vegetation cover and a very active erosion that has carved gullies, wadis, ravines and bare hills. From the observation points and the surrounding roads, a very open topography of ochre and gray tones can be appreciated, with smooth relief alternating with dry ravines and very incised gullies. It is a landscape of great geological reading: it allows a clear understanding of how torrential rain and the lack of soil act on soft materials in a warm and semi-arid Mediterranean climate. Its interest is not only natural; it also has a strong cultural presence due to the film and advertising shoots carried out since the sixties, to the point of having been nicknamed the "European Hollywood". The Junta de Andalucía includes it as a natural spot in its Visitor's Window, and the Diputación de Almería emphasizes its uniqueness within Europe. The visit is especially recommended in low light, at dawn or late afternoon, when the contrasts enhance the relief and color of the terrain. In spring and autumn the temperatures are usually more bearable to visit its viewpoints and surrounding trails.
