Níjar: The Almerian attraction you can't miss

Níjar proudly presented its tourist offer at the latest edition of FITUR, highlighting the successful 'Fall and Salt' festival. In its second edition, it promises to attract thousands of visitors to the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park. This unique event will be held on October 10, 11, and 12, 2025.

The second edition of the festival will be even more impactful, following a resounding debut in 2024. This year's line-up includes names like El Kanka, Valeria Castro, and Carlangas, among others, ensuring a fine musical experience. The festival's proposal not only focuses on music but also on gastronomy, crafts, and sustainability: an integral approach that highlights Níjar's natural beauty.

The mayor of Níjar, José Francisco Garrido, emphasized during the presentation that one of the main objectives of the festival is to de-seasonalize tourism. According to Garrido, moving the event away from the summer months benefits both the local tourism sector and employment.

The economic impact of the 2024 edition was 500,000 euros (approximately 550,000 dollars), with the hiring of 120 people. This highlights the potential of such festivals to generate wealth in the region.

In addition to promoting the festival, Níjar presented a new tourist guide at FITUR. The guide was made by the City Council and it includes the most prominent trails and viewpoints of the municipality. This opens new routes for tourists who wish to explore the natural beauty of the region. The Councilor for Tourism and Beaches, Pilar Fenoy, emphasized that these types of initiatives aim to promote sustainable tourism.

The guide offers detailed information about the schedules, points of interest, flora and fauna, and the history of each place. This new tool is designed for both tourists and locals who wish to better understand Níjar's natural resources. For example, the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, a UNESCO-protected area.

In his speech, Garrido placed special emphasis on Níjar's historical richness, a place that houses remnants of Phoenicians, Romans, and Arabs. Examples of this legacy include the Cortijo del Fraile, the Alumbres towers, and the Rodalquilar mine. These elements are not only part of the local history but also contribute to the uniqueness of the trails and viewpoints promoted in the guide.

Sustainability is a key aspect of Níjar's strategy, which seeks to balance tourism with respect for the environment. The Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park is the crown jewel, with its rugged coasts, virgin coves, and unique flora. Additionally, the region is famous for its marine depths, where the Posidonia oceanica is found, which is crucial for the marine ecosystem.

Níjar's tourist offer bets on inclusive and responsible tourism. In this regard, Garrido highlighted the collaboration with the Province Council of Almería and the Association of Entrepreneurs of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park (Asemparna). This collaboration strengthens efforts to establish Níjar as a reference destination in the province and beyond.

The mayor also highlighted the economic and social benefits of events like the "Fall and Salt" festival, which drive the de-seasonalization of tourism and contribute to the creation of local employment. The data from the first edition is a clear indicator of the sustainability of this festival model in autumn. It allows both tourists and residents to benefit from the region's cultural, gastronomic, and tourist offer.

With this presentation, Níjar reaffirms its position as a unique destination for nature, history, and music lovers. The tourist guide not only highlights the best of the region but also invites visitors to enjoy the landscapes, culture, and natural heritage.

Mayor Garrido concluded the presentation by inviting everyone to visit Níjar at least once in their lifetime. He assured that the Natural Park and its trails are places that leave a mark on visitors. In Garrido's words, "the path takes you, and the view captures you," which perfectly sums up the unique experience Níjar offers.

The presentation at FITUR 2025 has made it clear that Níjar continues betting on its natural, cultural, and tourist heritage. Additionally, it consolidates itself as a growing destination that knows how to combine sustainability, music, and culture in the incomparable setting of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.