A Sun-Kissed City In Spain Combines Mediterranean Charm With Wild West Adventures

Andalusia, Spain: The home of sunshine, flamenco, and... Spaghetti Westerns? What on earth is a Spaghetti Western and what could it possibly have to do with Spain? Sadly, they're not films in which everyone sits around shooting pistols and eating pasta. No, these types of Westerns got their names from the people who made them and where they were filmed. Shooting a movie in Hollywood could come with a hefty price tag, so what if directors instead brought their ideas to life in a cheaper location –– like Europe? During the 1960s and '70s, more than 500 Spaghetti Westerns were filmed and the so-called 'father' of the genre was Sergio Leone, a filmmaker who created films such as "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly," "Once Upon a Time in the West," and "For a Few Dollars More." Because Leone was Italian, people began to reference these films as "Spaghetti Westerns" and the name stuck. 

These films, in particular, were filmed a short 20-minute drive from the beautiful Andalusian town of Almería, in a place once called "Mini Hollywood". Today, the filming location has been turned into a theme park called Oasys, one of the most filmed locations in Europe, where visitors can spend their day living out their gunslinging fantasies. While cinephiles flock to this sun-drenched locale to unleash their best Clint Eastwood impersonation, Almería is a prime destination for anyone looking to soak up the sun, enjoy the stunning beauty of the Mediterranean, and enjoy a stunning mix of architecture unique to southern Spain. 

Many of the Spaghetti Westerns were filmed on set out in the Tabernas Desert. After filming "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" concluded, a group of extras on the film instead turned it into a tourist attraction. Today, people can visit what is now known as Oasys, one of Europe's best locations for spending a day in the "Wild West." The theme park offers an array of fun for the whole family. Re-enactments, stunt shows, and can-can dances are held daily, while visitors can also explore Western-themed saloons, stores, and restaurants.

The park is also home to The Museo de Cine, a fun little museum where tourists can see projectors, accessories, and an extensive display of movie posters. A short walk away is The Wagon Museum, which houses a collection of wagons used in the films shot on set. Stretching over 25 hectares is the Safari Park and Zoo, where visitors can see many different plants and animals from all around the world. Not only is Oasys a great place to spend the day in legendary film stars' footsteps, but one where guests can learn and explore the natural beauty of the area as well. Oasys is located a short 20-minute drive from Almería, which is convenient for anyone who wants to step back into the Wild West. According to their website calendar, visitors can check out the park on weekends in February and March, as well as book days up until August 2025.

Before heading off to experience life in the Wild West, visitors should take time to explore the small but charming city of Almería, one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. A lesser-known city than its southern counterparts Malaga or Sevilla, Almería surprises visitors with its beautiful coastline, delicious food, and stunning architecture. Spending a day outside in the sun here is easy, as it happens to be the driest area in all of Spain. With only 7 inches of rain per year, it's the perfect place in Europe to go to escape the winter blues. Visitors needn't go far to enjoy the calm of the Mediterranean, as Almería boasts 1.8 miles of golden sand. Situated a short 30-minute drive from the city center is the beautiful Cabo de Gata, a natural park with miles of stunning beaches.

The city has seen a change of hands through the centuries, directly influencing many of the more popular buildings. Set atop a hill looking down upon Almería is the beautiful Alcazaba de Almería, a walled fortress built by the Arabs in the 10th and 11th centuries. In the city below sits the Cathedral of Almería, a stunning Gothic and Renaissance-styled church built in the 17th century, standing as Spain's only fortified cathedral from that time period. After exploring the city, stop for a bite at one of the delicious tapas restaurants. The best part of Almería is that the tapas (small bites) here are often free with every drink order. If you're planning a summer trip to Europe, read our guide on why Spain should be your next adventure destination.