This Ruta De Sabores event would be one to attend, if we still lived in the region. Back when we lived in Freila and Cuevas Del Campo we used to go to Albox for an Indian, when we fancied a curry, it was a 45 minutes each way drive though, just to put it into some perspective!.
Taste the Best of Almanzora: The II Ruta de Sabores Delights Visitors Throughout November
This November, the Almanzora Valley is transformed into a culinary hotspot with the return of its popular food and drink event, the “II Ruta de Sabores del Almanzora” (Almanzora Flavours Route). Running from 1st to 30th November, the event showcases the rich gastronomic heritage of this beautiful Spanish region, drawing in locals and visitors alike for a month-long celebration of flavours, tradition, and community spirit.
With over 50 participating establishments, the Ruta de Sabores offers an extensive selection of local dishes and tapas, prepared with passion and authenticity. Diners can sample a variety of traditional and innovative creations that capture the essence of Almanzora’s culinary scene. Some highlights on the menu include Brioche with meat and tomato, Leg of goat, traditional Migas, Wheat stew, Cod stew, Ribs with honey sauce, Oxtail, Iberian pork grilled on oak charcoal, Battered peppers, Citrus-honey roast ribs, Broken eggs with Serón ham, homemade porridge, Deer “garden style,” Garlic-infused rabbit, Bacon fritters, and Tavern toast topped with a quail egg.
A Gastronomic Journey with Rewards
Not only does the Ruta de Sabores offer a culinary adventure, but it also brings a sense of fun and competition to the table. Diners participating in the event can collect a stamp in a special brochure-booklet each time they sample dishes at different establishments. Once they’ve gathered stamps from three different venues, they are eligible to enter a draw to win an enticing selection of regional products.
The grand prize, contributed by 23 local producers, includes everything from handmade sausages, honey, jams, and shortbreads to locally produced roscos, sobrasada with honey, chips, homemade crumbs, free-range eggs, wine, preserves, olive oil, and traditional sweets. To enter, participants simply need to snap a photo of their stamped booklet and send it, along with their contact information, to the Ruta de Sabores organiser’s WhatsApp number.
For those eager to explore a wide range of flavours, there’s no limit to the number of booklets they can submit. Each booklet with stamps from unique establishments gives them an additional chance to win, encouraging diners to savour the full breadth of the Almanzora Valley’s gastronomic offerings.
A Community Effort to Celebrate Local Flavours
Organised by the Association of Tourist Entrepreneurs of the Almanzora Valley, in collaboration with 20 local town councils, the Provincial Council of Almería, and Sabores Almería, the Ruta de Sabores is a joint effort to support the region’s hospitality sector and promote its rich gastronomic culture. As Luis Aurelio Pérez, the association’s president, explains, “All these actions are aimed at strengthening the local hospitality industry, which provides direct and indirect employment to hundreds, while showcasing the high-quality produce of our region and promoting the Almanzora Valley as a culinary destination in the province.”
The Ruta de Sabores is a wonderful opportunity to sample the best of Almanzora’s cuisine, enjoy the warmth of its community, and take part in a celebration of tradition and creativity. Each dish tells a story, and each stamp collected is a reminder of the Valley’s unique heritage and passion for good food.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the region, this November is the perfect time to experience the best of Almanzora’s food and drink scene. Enjoy the Ruta de Sabores and let the flavours of the valley leave a lasting impression!
A Diverse Array of Venues: Discover Almanzora’s Gastronomic Gems
The II Ruta de Sabores del Almanzora isn’t just about food – it’s about the experience of discovering new flavours in unique settings across the Almanzora Valley. This year, an impressive selection of over 50 establishments from various towns and villages in the region will be participating, each offering special dishes that celebrate the Valley’s culinary heritage and creativity. Here’s a glimpse of some of the key locations taking part:
Albox
In Albox, a vibrant hub in the valley, food lovers can explore a variety of offerings. From the scenic Terraza Lamarlo to the cosy Restaurante La Parrilla and the traditional Bar Alcaina, each venue has something special to offer. Taberna Topares and Mesón Irene bring a rustic charm to the event, while Bar Mirador By Analía serves dishes with a view. For Italian-inspired options, there’s Andrés García Pizzería, and if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, Bar Wassy promises an inviting spot for drinks and tapas.
Arboleas
In the picturesque town of Arboleas, three popular spots are ready to welcome food enthusiasts. Bowlera Restaurant offers a unique menu in a relaxed setting, La Colmena Bar is a favourite for local fare, and El Castillo Restaurant combines culinary creativity with a touch of history in its decor and menu.
Bacares
Nestled in the mountains, Las Fuentes Hotel Restaurant in Bacares provides a unique dining experience with local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, making it an ideal stop for visitors who want to combine food with mountain views.
Cantoria
The Yedra Restaurant in Cantoria showcases a carefully crafted menu that celebrates the traditions of the valley. The restaurant is known for its refined takes on classic Spanish dishes, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.
Chercos
In the small yet charming village of Chercos, El Cordobés Bar is a popular spot for traditional tapas, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere where visitors can sample authentic local dishes.
Laroya
Alameda Bar in Laroya invites diners to relax and enjoy simple, hearty meals that highlight the flavours of the valley in a casual, comfortable setting.
Líjar
A popular stop in Líjar, Líjar Inn offers traditional Spanish hospitality and a selection of local dishes that showcase the region’s culinary roots.
Lúcar
Lúcar offers a mix of local and casual dining options. La Piscina Bar Cafeteria is a great spot to unwind by the pool, while MYR-Y-AN Café Pub provides a more contemporary vibe. Aunt Matilde’s Booth (Cela) is a unique venue where visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional and modern flavours.
Macael
Known for its marble industry, Macael also offers a rich culinary scene. The options range from the relaxed Las Piscinas Restaurant to the refined Los Membrives Restaurant and the lively La Plaza Bar. La Marmita Restaurant adds a modern twist to local dishes, while Moma Gastronomic Space is ideal for those seeking a gourmet experience.
Olula del Río
Olula del Río is bustling with excellent dining options. La Tejera Gardens Restaurant and Terra Café Gastrobar each bring their unique flair to the event, while El Encuentro Grill and La Bodega Grill offer smoky, grilled specialties. Serrano Pizzeria provides a Mediterranean touch, and El Guiño Cultural Bar combines food with art and culture. For a laid-back bistro experience, Rustir Bar & Bistro and Zingara Gastrobar are ideal choices.
Oria
In Oria, you’ll find Pepe Bar and the Oria Gas Station Bar, both offering a taste of local flavours with an emphasis on traditional tapas and classic Spanish dishes.
Partaloa
Partaloa Pool Bar is a favourite local hangout, combining a relaxed atmosphere with a selection of crowd-pleasing dishes, perfect for a casual meal.
Purchena
The quaint town of Purchena offers Bar Casa Cano and Restaurant Piscina Purchena, where diners can enjoy hearty, homemade food in a relaxed setting.
Serón
The town of Serón is known for its gastronomy, and Bar Restaurant Casa Pedro, Bar Plaza Nueva, and Restaurant Cuadrado each bring their distinctive take on local flavours. From rustic tapas to contemporary Spanish dishes, Serón’s establishments capture the essence of the valley’s culinary heritage.
Sierro
Bar Casino and Bar La Parrilla in Sierro each offer a unique slice of local life and cuisine, with dishes that are made from fresh ingredients and filled with regional character.
Suflí
In Suflí, Mesón Los Álamos stands out for its traditional menu, where visitors can sample a variety of local specialities in a cosy, welcoming setting.
Taberno
For a hearty meal, Restaurant El Rancho in Taberno offers generous portions of classic Spanish dishes, perfect for those looking to enjoy a satisfying, down-to-earth dining experience.
Tíjola
Tíjola is home to Restaurant El Polígono and Bar La Estación, both beloved by locals and visitors alike for their flavoursome dishes that make use of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Urracal
In Urracal, Bar Rincón Andalú and Bar La Plaza each offer a taste of authentic Andalusian hospitality, with menus that highlight traditional recipes and ingredients.
Zurgena
Rounding off the Ruta de Sabores, Bar La Fragua 68 in Zurgena provides a warm, inviting atmosphere, where locals and visitors can enjoy well-prepared dishes that capture the spirit of the valley.
Join the Celebration
The II Ruta de Sabores del Almanzora provides an opportunity to explore these diverse locations, each offering its own unique take on Almanzora’s flavours. From quaint village bars to upscale dining spots, every participating venue contributes to the tapestry of tastes that define the valley. This November, visitors and locals alike are invited to embark on this culinary journey, sampling the best that each town and village has to offer and discovering the rich flavours that make the Almanzora Valley a true gastronomic treasure in Spain. Keep updated via the tourist information page for this wonderful event.
